Welcome to our ultimate “Dark Souls 3: Challenge Run Guide,” where we delve into the thrilling world of self-imposed darkness. If you’ve conquered Lothric and defeated every foe, it’s time to up the ante and embrace the ultimate test of your skills. This guide promises to help you navigate the daunting path of challenge runs, covering everything you need to know to transform your gameplay into a Herculean feat.

In “Planning a Challenge Run,” we’ll provide strategies for preparing your journey. Then, “Challenge Run Restrictions” will outline the unique rules that elevate the difficulty. Our expert “Challenge Run Tips” offer insider advice to keep you ahead of your adversaries. Confronting the deadliest foes takes centre stage in “Challenge Run Bosses,” and finally, bask in the glory of your accomplishments with “Challenge Run Rewards.”

Are you ready to conquer Dark Souls 3 in a way you’ve never imagined? Let’s get started!

Planning a Challenge Run#

If you’ve beaten Dark Souls 3 and crave more punishment—uh, I mean, excitement—then it’s time for a challenge run! Challenge runs crank up the difficulty and require serious strategy, but they also offer a fresh take on this grim adventure. Here’s how to plan your own.

Step 1: Choose Your Challenge#

First, decide what kind of challenge you want. Here are some popular choices:

• Soul Level 1 (SL1) Run: Never level up. You stay at SL1 for the entire game. Good luck!
• No Healing: No Estus Flasks. Rely on healing miracles (if you even allow those), or just don’t heal at all.
• No Rolling/Blocking/Parrying: Your dodge, block, and parry buttons are off-limits. Time to master backstabbing!
• Speedrun: Finish the game as quickly as possible using the most efficient routes and strategies.
• Cosplay Run: Dress and equip your character to match a specific theme. Love Solaire? Get that armor and praise the sun!

Step 2: Set Rules and Boundaries#

Every challenge needs clear rules to follow. It keeps you on track and ensures you’re actually sticking to the challenge. Write these down:

• Make a list of banned items or actions.
• Specify any exceptions (e.g., is it okay to heal once per boss fight in a No Healing run?).
• Outline your character’s build and gear if you’re doing a cosplay or themed run.

Step 3: Prepare Your Gear#

Depending on your challenge, the gear you choose will be critical.

• For SL1 runs:
  • Armor: Light and nimble. You can’t afford to take heavy hits.
  • Weapons: Pick something strong but easy to upgrade early, like a broadsword or a mace.
• For No Rolling/Blocking/Parrying:
  • Armor: Heavy! You’ll need to tank hits.
  • Shield: Use it for stability, not blocking. A weapon like a greatshield can also work.
• For Cosplay Runs:
  • Mimic the character’s gear as closely as possible. If you’re emulating a Pyromancer, stock up on pyromancy tomes and spells.

Step 4: Create a Game Plan#

Map out your route and strategies:

• Routing: Know where to go first. For SL1 runs, prioritize grabbing powerful items and rings that boost your survival odds.
• Boss Strategies: Study boss patterns and weaknesses. Watch videos of other players to learn from their mistakes and victories.
• Resource Management: Track your consumables like embers (for extra health) and weapon-boosting resins. You can’t afford to waste anything.

Step 5: Stay Positive and Persistent#

Challenge runs are tough. You’ll die—a lot. But that’s part of the fun.

• Keep a Positive Attitude: Every death is a learning opportunity.
• Take Breaks: If you’re getting frustrated, step away for a bit. It’s supposed to be fun, not infuriating!
• Join Communities: Share your progress with others online. Subreddits and forums are full of people who can offer tips and moral support.

Final Tips#

• Practice Makes Perfect: Play through the game casually a couple of times to familiarize yourself with enemies and layouts.
• Do Your Homework: Read up on mechanics you aren’t familiar with. For example, weapon infusion techniques can make or break an SL1 run.
• Enjoy the Journey: Remember why you’re doing this—for the challenge, the stories, and the proof you can conquer Lordran with one hand tied behind your back (metaphorically, or literally if you’re that hardcore).

Now, get out there and give that challenge run a shot! May the flames guide thee.

Challenge Run Restrictions#

So you’ve beaten Dark Souls 3 and you’re craving a new, hardcore experience? Challenge runs are your next adventure. These self-imposed rules turn an already tough game into something truly brutal. Let’s break down some popular challenge run restrictions that will push your skills to the limit.

No Healing Items#

This run is a classic. You can’t use any healing items like Estus Flasks or Divine Blessings. This means you need to be extra careful with every encounter since each hit can’t be healed. Plan your battles, use shields, and dodge like your life depends on it – because it does.

Pro Tip: Learn to parry and backstab. If you can avoid taking hits altogether, you won’t miss those precious Estus seconds.

Soul Level 1 (SL1)#

In an SL1 run, you can’t level up your character at all. You start and finish the game at level 1. No stat boosts, no extra health. You’re relying on pure skill and the weakest weapons. Find the right gear and master the boss patterns to survive.

Gear Up: Pyromancer is a good starting class for this run. They have decent stats and access to powerful spells that can help balance your limitations.

No Weapons#

Imagine taking on massive foes without a sword or axe. In a No Weapons run, you’re fighting with your bare fists. The game gets incredibly difficult, but it forces you to master dodging and using enemy weaknesses to your advantage.

Hint: Use items like Firebombs or try tactics that make bosses fall off cliffs. Creativity is key.

No Armor#

Ditch your armor and fight as a glass cannon. You’re faster and more agile, but one hit could mean instant death. This run forces you to perfect your dodging and evasion skills.

Stay Light: Consider equipment that increases your rolling speed, such as the Carthus Bloodring.

Pacifist Run#

In a Pacifist run, you avoid killing enemies whenever possible. Only essential bosses and foes can be defeated. You’re going to spend a lot of time running and sneaking past enemies, which changes the game into a stealth challenge.

Strategize: Study enemy patrol paths and learn to bypass sections using shortcuts or alternative routes.

Broken Sword#

Play through the game using only the Broken Straight Sword. It’s a hilariously weak weapon, turning every fight into a prolonged struggle. Bosses will feel like marathons rather than sprints.

Upgrade Often: Upgrade your Broken Sword as much as you can. Every little bit of damage helps when fighting with a toothpick.

No Rolling#

Dodging is a staple of Dark Souls, but what if you couldn’t roll? This run means no rolling, no quick steps, just walking and carefully timing blocks. It’s a significant departure from the usual playstyle and makes battles even more about timing than ever.

Block Accurately: Invest in a good shield and master the art of blocking and parrying. Blocking will become your best friend.

Bow-Only#

Playing with just a bow is a fantastic test of your aiming skills. You’ll need to keep your distance and find safe spots to shoot from, making every encounter a tactical puzzle.

Stock Up: Carry plenty of arrows and always be aware of your supply. Finding safe vantage points is crucial.

Embrace the Challenge#

Challenge runs are an awesome way to breathe new life into Dark Souls 3. They force you to think differently and adapt your playstyle. Choose your restriction, hone your skills, and show those bosses who’s boss. Good luck, Ashen One!

Dark Souls 3: Challenge Run Guide#

Challenge Run Tips#

So, you’ve decided to take on a challenge run in Dark Souls 3? Kudos to you! These runs can be brutal but also incredibly satisfying. Here are some tips to help you survive (and maybe even thrive) during your journey.

1. Choose Your Challenge Wisely#

First things first, decide which type of challenge run you want to do. Here are some popular choices:

• No Hit Run: Complete the game without taking a single hit.
• Soul Level 1 Run: Stay at starting level throughout the game.
• Broken Sword Run: Use only the Broken Straight Sword.
• Naked Run: Avoid armor entirely, or only wear minimal pieces for cosmetic purposes.

Your choice will greatly affect your strategy, gear, and overall experience. Pick one that sounds fun to you!

2. Learn Enemy Patterns#

In any challenge run, knowing enemy patterns is essential. Take time to study how enemies attack and move. This will help you dodge and counter their moves efficiently:

• Boss Fights: Learn each boss’s phase transitions and attack windows. Practice makes perfect!
• Regular Enemies: Even lowly hollows can end your run. Don’t underestimate them.

3. Optimize Your Build#

You won’t have the luxury to experiment much with different builds during challenge runs. Focus on optimizing a build that fits your chosen challenge:

• Soul Level 1: Use weapons and gear that don’t require high stats. The Deep Battle Axe is a great early game weapon.
• No Hit: Prioritize agility and stamina. Consider lighter weapons and armor for faster rolls.

4. Items and Equipment#

Your gear can really make or break your run. Here are some must-haves:

• Rings: Rings like the Ring of Favor and the Chloranthy Ring can make a huge difference.
• Magic Buffs: Use spells like Great Magic Shield or Tears of Denial for added resilience.
• Estus Management: In no-heal runs, know where you can gather other healing items like Divine Blessing or Med Heal miracles.

5. Practice, Practice, Practice#

Challenge runs are all about muscle memory and quick reflexes. Spend time practicing difficult sections until you can do them in your sleep. Here’s some key areas to focus on:

• Dancer of the Boreal Valley: Timing is crucial for this speedy boss.
• Pontiff Sulyvahn: Master dodging his combos and hits.
• High Wall of Lothric: Even early areas can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared.

6. Have a Backup Plan#

Even the best-laid plans can fall apart. Have a backup strategy for when things go south:

• Alternative Routes: Know different paths in each area to avoid particularly tough enemies or ambushes.
• Secondary Weapons: Keep a secondary weapon handy in case your main one breaks.
• Escape Tactics: Use Homeward Bones or the Coiled Sword Fragment to escape sticky situations.

7. Community Resources#

You’re not in this alone. Many people have conquered challenge runs before and have shared their knowledge. Check out videos, forums, and guides:

• YouTube: Channels dedicated to no-hit runs or SL1 runs can offer invaluable tips.
• Reddit: Communities like r/darksouls3 are great for advice and support.
• Discord: Join servers focused on Dark Souls to get real-time help and encouragement.

Final Thoughts#

Challenge runs in Dark Souls 3 are not for the faint of heart, but with the right mindset, preparation, and practice, they are absolutely doable. Remember to stay patient and enjoy the game, even when it gets tough. Good luck, Ashen One!

Ready to dive deeper? Check out our complete Dark Souls 3 Guide for detailed strategies on bosses, builds, and more!

Challenge Run Bosses#

In Dark Souls III, the bosses are often the most challenging and memorable parts of your adventure. But for some brave souls, defeating them through a regular playthrough isn’t enough. That’s where challenge runs come in. Here, we’ll explore some of the wildest and toughest ways to tackle these fearsome foes.

No-Hit Run Bosses#

A no-hit run is one of the most respected challenges in the Dark Souls community. The idea is simple: don’t get hit. But as anyone who’s played knows, it’s insanely tough. Here are the bosses you’ll face:

• Iudex Gundyr: Your first test. Timing is everything. Pay extra attention to his phase two, where he gets much more aggressive.

• Vordt of the Boreal Valley: His charge attacks are devastating. Stay behind him and watch out for his frost breath.

• Abyss Watchers: When two watchers join the fight, patience becomes key. Focus on separating them and take one down quickly.

• Pontiff Sulyvahn: This fight is about dodging and anticipating his moves. When he spawns a clone, use the downtime between attacks to land your hits safely.

SL1 (Soul Level 1) Run Bosses#

Next up is the Soul Level 1 run, where you complete the game without leveling your character. You’ll heavily rely on dodging and learning boss patterns because your health and damage stats won’t improve:

• Dancer of the Boreal Valley: Fast and unpredictable. Dodge her spins and stay close to avoid the worst of her range attacks.

• Yhorm the Giant: Use the Storm Ruler weapon effectively. Your low stats won’t matter much, but timing your hits is crucial.

Broken Straight Sword Run Bosses#

For those looking to up the ante, beating the game with a Broken Straight Sword is a tedious yet exhilarating challenge. This weak weapon means you’ll need to land a lot more hits to take any boss down. Some fights to prepare for include:

• Nameless King: This is a painful fight with such low damage. Focus first on his trusty dragon and then be extremely cautious with Nameless King’s fast lightning strikes.

• Soul of Cinder: The final boss has multiple phases and each phase is tough. Patience is more important than ever here. Learn each phase and keep your cool.

No Healing/No Estus Run Bosses#

For those truly looking to suffer, there’s the no healing or no Estus run. Every bit of damage you take will stick with you unless you use a bonfire to rest. The bosses in this run will feel like different beasts entirely:

• Abyss Watchers: Make use of their friendly fire to help lower their numbers. Try to stay at full health for the final phase.

• Lothric, Younger Prince: Limited or no healing means you need to be flawless. Be wary of projectiles and take advantage of healing windows sparingly.

New Game Plus (NG+) Bosses#

Finally, if you’ve beaten the game and want more of a challenge, the bosses in NG+ will hit harder and have more health. The AI remains the same, but you’ll need sharper reflexes and better strategy:

• Aldrich, Devourer of Gods: His attacks become more powerful. Stay on the move and manage your stamina carefully.

• Dragonslayer Armour: Watch the environment along with his swings. His shields make dodging vital since blocking is less effective.

Tips for Surviving Challenge Run Bosses#

1. Patience is Key: Whether you’re dodging hits or rationing your Estus, staying patient and calm under pressure is essential.
2. Learn Patterns: Bosses have patterns. Learn them and adjust your strategies accordingly.
3. Prepare Gear: Tailor your gear to the boss you’re facing. Light, fast armor can be more useful than heavy, tanky sets.
4. Practice: Repetition is your best friend. The more you fight a boss, the better you’ll get.
5. Stay Positive: These runs are tough and can be frustrating. Remember, perseverance is crucial.

There you have it! Whether you’re going for a SL1 run or trying to defeat bosses without taking a hit, these tips should help you get prepared. Good luck, and may the flames guide you!

Challenge Run Rewards#

If you’re tackling Dark Souls 3 and want to test your skills even more, you might be interested in challenge runs. These self-imposed limitations aren’t just about bragging rights; they also come with rewards that can make venturing into Lothric even more satisfying. Let’s dive into the different types of challenge run rewards you can earn.

No Death Run#

Completing a run without dying a single time is no easy feat. However, the reward speaks for itself. Finish without dying and you’ll earn the Untrue Dark Ring, which allows your character to maintain human appearance even when you’re a hollow. It’s a largely cosmetic reward, but it’s cool to look human all the time. Plus, it’s a badge of honor!

No Bonfire Run#

A No Bonfire Run means you’re only allowed to light bonfires but cannot rest at them to restore health or Estus flasks. If you make it through the game like this, you get access to the Untrue White Ring. It makes your phantom appear like a white phantom, so even when summoned as a spirit, your ghostly form blends in better. It’s a bit of a stealth reward, useful for some sneaky PvP action.

Soul Level 1 Run#

Taking on Dark Souls 3 at Soul Level 1 (SL1) is only for the most hardened of players. You don’t get any physical in-game reward for this challenge, but the community respects anyone who conquers Lothric without leveling up. It’s a test of pure skill and strategy, showing you’ve become a true master of the game’s mechanics.

Speedrun#

Speedruns are about how quickly you can defeat all bosses and finish the game. If you manage to do it in under one and a half hours, you can earn special recognition in speedrunning communities. Also, finish the game quickly, and you might end up with unique drops, such as more Titanite Scales and Twinkling Titanite from bosses due to the efficient killing of crystal lizards.

Zero Hit Run (or No Hit Run)#

Zero Hit Runs are the ultimate test of patience and precision. Completing Dark Souls 3 without getting hit once rewards you with massive internet fame. The no-hit community might even feature you, much like the streamers who’ve done it before. Seriously, the respect you gain from this is the stuff of legends among Dark Souls enthusiasts.

Bow-Only Run#

Doing a Bow-Only Run means you’re armed with nothing but a bow, fighting enemies and bosses from a distance. Successfully complete this and while there might not be in-game rewards, there’s significant entertainment value. This challenge showcases your precision and tactics, and you get a unique play-through experience leveraging the game’s ranged combat mechanics.

Ironman Run#

An Ironman Run is where you don’t use the inventory screen at all. You can’t swap gear or use items from your inventory during this run. Completing it shows you have unparalleled adaptability and smarts because you’re relying solely on what’s already equipped. Again, no in-game item, but major respect from the community.

Magic-Only Run#

This run is for those who want to rely only on sorceries, pyromancies, and miracles. Completing it means mastering the mana management and cast timing of the game. The reward is really the newfound appreciation for magic, and the unique strategies you develop for bosses and hard sections of the game.

Conclusion#

The rewards for challenge runs in Dark Souls 3 might not always be physical items but completing them elevates your status in the gaming community. Some runs will reward you with rare rings, while others just bring you respect and proof of your skill. If you’re looking for an extra challenge, these runs are a fantastic way to push your limits and see how much you’ve mastered the bleak world of Dark Souls 3.