Welcome to our ultimate guide, “Dark Souls 3: Exploration and Secrets,” where the enthralling world of Dark Souls 3 unravels its most guarded mysteries. Whether you’re a veteran adventurer or a fresh face in Lothric, this guide is your key to mastering the art of exploration. Dive deep into crucial Map Tips, uncover Hidden Places, and discover Secret Items that can give you the edge. Learn the importance of Talking to Characters and deftly navigate through Traps and Puzzles that stand in your way. Ready to embark on this epic journey? Let’s begin your quest to become a true legend in Dark Souls 3!

Dark Souls 3: Exploration and Secrets#

Map Tips#

Navigating the world of Dark Souls 3 can be tough. Here are some handy tips to make sure you don’t get lost (or at least, not too often).

1. Pay Attention to Bonfires#

Bonfires act as your checkpoints and fast travel points. Whenever you find one, make sure to light it and rest there. This will refill your health, your Estus Flasks, and set your respawn point. Plus, it makes backtracking way less painful.

Tip: Memorize the bonfire names and their locations. It helps when you’re fast traveling and need to get back to a specific area quickly.

2. Use Your Map#

While Dark Souls 3 doesn’t hand you an in-game map, you can find plenty of fan-made maps online. These can be lifesavers. They show you hidden shortcuts, item locations, and enemy placements.

Tip: Print out a map or keep one on your phone/computer for quick reference. This can really help if you’re stuck or trying to find a specific item.

3. Look For Shortcuts#

Dark Souls 3 is full of shortcuts. Always be on the lookout for ladders, doors, and elevators that you can unlock. They often loop back to earlier parts of the level or to a bonfire.

Tip: If you see a unique door or elevator, remember it. Chances are, you’ll find a way to open or activate it from the other side later.

4. Watch for Hidden Walls#

Illusory walls are a staple in Dark Souls games. Some walls aren’t really walls at all. Smack them with your weapon or roll into them, and they might disappear, revealing secret rooms with treasures or shortcuts.

Tip: Pay attention to messages left by other players. “Illusory Wall Ahead” or “Treasure Ahead” are often placed near these hidden paths.

5. Check Your Messages#

Messages left by other players can be super helpful. Sometimes they warn you about upcoming enemies, hint at hidden paths, or even tell you where to find items.

Tip: Don’t always trust the messages as some players like to troll, but generally, they can be a great way to gather intel about your surroundings.

6. Use Your Environment#

Dark Souls 3’s environments are highly detailed and interconnected. Platforms, ledges, and even shadows can give you clues about where to go.

Tip: If you’re stuck, don’t just look straight ahead. Look up, look down, and look all around you. The path forward might be above or below you.

7. Lure Enemies#

Rushing into a new area can often lead to unexpected death. Instead, use the environment to your advantage: lure enemies into more favorable ground, like narrow passages or open spaces.

Tip: Use a bow or throwing items to pull enemies one by one instead of aggroing a whole group at once.

8. Mark Your Path#

If you’re getting lost frequently, make mental notes of your path or even jot down notes. Marking significant places, like forks in the road or distinctive landmarks, can help you find your way back if you get turned around.

Tip: Load screens often show images of areas. This can subtly re-familiarize you with environments.

Final Thoughts#

Exploring in Dark Souls 3 is risky but also highly rewarding. By using bonfires as hubs, unlocking shortcuts, and paying attention to your surroundings, you’ll be able to navigate the world more efficiently. Remember, in this game, the environment itself is a part of the challenge as well as the reward. Happy exploring!

That’s it! Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be mapping your way through Lothric like a pro in no time.

Dark Souls 3: Exploration and Secrets#

Hidden Places#

Dark Souls 3 is known for its dark, intertwining world full of mysteries and hidden places. Some of these spots are easily missed, but they often hide valuable items, unique enemies, or shortcuts. Let’s go over some of the coolest hidden places you can discover in the game.

Firelink Shrine – Untended Graves#

One of the early hidden areas you can uncover is the Untended Graves. After defeating Oceiros, the Consumed King, there’s a hidden wall behind the altar. Smash through it to find a secret passage. This dark, alternate version of the Cemetery of Ash offers new challenges and lore insights. Plus, you can find the Eyes of a Fire Keeper, which can change your ending.

Cemetery of Ash – Iudex Gundyr Secret#

In the starting area, after defeating Iudex Gundyr, there’s a secret route many players overlook. When you return to the Firelink Shrine, drop off to the right before entering the building. There’s a ledge you can walk on. Carefully jump down to find a nest where Pickle Pee, Pump-a-Rum the crow merchants, reside. They trade valuable items for specific things you drop, like the Call Over gesture.

Cathedral of the Deep – Rosaria’s Bedchamber#

In the Cathedral of the Deep, after pushing through waves of enemies and tricky terrain, there’s a hidden spot where Rosaria, Mother of Rebirth resides. By climbing a ladder near the Giant and taking a series of tricky jumps across rafters, you can reach her chamber. Joining her covenant allows for character re-specing and changing of appearance.

Irithyll of the Boreal Valley – Darkmoon Tomb#

In Irithyll of the Boreal Valley, you might miss this one. From the Anor Londo bonfire, go back towards the rotating tower and lower it. Instead of going down the main path, look for an opening halfway down. Go through to find the Darkmoon Tomb. Here, you can join the Blade of the Darkmoon Covenant, which allows you to assist other players and gain unique rewards.

Smouldering Lake – Old Demon King#

Accessing the Smouldering Lake itself is a bit of a puzzle. After passing through the Catacombs of Carthus, hit an illusory wall near a large bridge. This opens up to the Smouldering Lake. At the far end of the lake, past giant enemy crabs and traps, lies the Old Demon King. Beating him grants you the Soul of the Old Demon King, which can be traded for powerful spells or weapons.

Lothric Castle – Secret Area Before the Boss#

Before facing the twin princes in Lothric Castle, there’s a hidden path that leads to some valuable loot. Head past the Dragonslayer Armor bonfire and look for an elevator with a hidden platform. Ride it to access a secret room filled with enemies but also sweet loot, including the Red Tearstone Ring, a great boost for Low HP builds.

Archdragon Peak – The Path of the Dragon#

To unlock Archdragon Peak, you need to perform the “Path of the Dragon” gesture in a specific location. After defeating Oceiros, the Consumed King, you’ll find an altar. Perform the gesture here to be transported to Archdragon Peak, a mysterious area with powerful enemies, including the Nameless King, one of the game’s toughest bosses.

Exploring these hidden places in Dark Souls 3 can be incredibly rewarding. They not only provide valuable items and lore but also offer some of the most interesting and unique experiences in the game. Keep your eyes peeled, and don’t be afraid to hit walls that look a bit out of place – your next great discovery could be just behind one.

Secret Items#

Firelink Shrine#

When you first enter the Firelink Shrine, there’s a lot to explore. Don’t rush; take your time to look around. Go up the staircase to the right of the thrones. At the top, you’ll find an item called the Curl Up Gesture. This may not be a weapon or armor, but gestures are a fun way to interact with other players.

Now look out for a tree near the Shrine Handmaid. Use the tree to jump onto the roof of the Shrine. It might take a few tries, so be patient. Once you’re on the roof, you’ll find the Estus Shard, which is invaluable as it lets you carry more Estus Flasks.

High Wall of Lothric#

In the High Wall of Lothric, from the Bonfire, head down to the tower area. There’s a tough enemy down here, but if you defeat the Lothric Knight, you can loot the Lothric Knight’s Sword. This weapon is a solid choice for both dexterity and strength builds.

Near the dragon that breathes fire down the walkway, there’s a secret path underneath the bridge. If you go down that path, you’ll find a Claymore. It’s heavy but packs a serious punch.

Undead Settlement#

In the Undead Settlement, head towards the burning tree with undead worshipping it. There, you can find a Fire Clutch Ring which boosts fire attack but lowers damage absorption. It’s a good trade if you’re focusing on pyromancy or weapons with fire damage.

Also in this area, be on the lookout for an NPC named Cornyx of the Great Swamp. Free him from his cage, and he’ll join you at Firelink Shrine as a pyromancy trainer. If you listen carefully and follow the sounds, you’ll find a Great Swamp Pyromancy Tome.

Farron Keep#

Farron Keep is swampy and gross, but has some cool secrets. Look for the burning towers; near them, you’ll find several Titanite Shards scattered around. These are crucial for weapon upgrades.

While exploring, you might come across a chest in a hidden area that contains the Xanthous Crown. This item isn’t just for show; it can also boost your magic playstyle.

Irithyll Dungeon#

The Irithyll Dungeon is creepy but rewarding. Carefully navigate the cells, and you’ll discover Profaned Coal, used for infusing weapons with fire or dark damage.

In another cell, you’ll find the Old Cell Key. This key opens a cell with the Eleonora, a powerful axe. There’s also the Jailer’s Key Ring that unlocks multiple doors in the dungeon, providing shortcuts and even more items.

Lothric Castle#

When you reach Lothric Castle, head to the top of the Grand Archives. By battling your way through this challenging area, you will find the Winged Knight Set, a bulky armor set that offers great protection.

Exploring the rooftops will also yield the Hunter Ring, boosting dexterity and giving you an edge in battle if you’re a dex build.

Exploring every nook and cranny may take time, but it’s worth it for these powerful and unique secret items. Keep your eyes peeled, listen for strange sounds, and always press onward; you never know what you might find.

Happy hunting, Ashen One!

Talking to Characters#

In Dark Souls 3, talking to characters, often called NPCs (non-playable characters), plays a key role in not just understanding the game’s lore but also unlocking quests, getting items, and making friends (or enemies). Below, we’ll break down how to talk to characters effectively and what to expect from these interactions.

Why Talk to NPCs?#

NPCs in Dark Souls 3 aren’t just there for decoration. They provide:

• Lore and Story Insight: NPCs often have important information about the game’s story and world.
• Quests: Many characters offer side quests that can lead to special rewards.
• Items and Spells: Some NPCs sell useful items, gear, spells, and more.
• Gameplay Tips: Occasionally, NPCs give valuable gameplay tips or hints on where to go next.

Finding and Engaging NPCs#

Most NPCs are hidden in the game’s many areas. Keep your eyes peeled and explore every nook and cranny.

• Listen Carefully: Sometimes, you may hear them before you see them. Sounds of chanting or mumbling could indicate an NPC nearby.
• Examine the Environment: Look for places off the beaten path. NPCs might be in hidden rooms, or just out of plain sight.

Once you find an NPC, approach and press the action button 💬 (the default is usually A on Xbox or X on PlayStation). Continue talking to them until they start repeating themselves – this way you won’t miss any important information or quest offers.

Key NPCs and Their Importance#

Here are some important NPCs you shouldn’t miss:

• Fire Keeper: She’s in the Firelink Shrine and helps you level up. Make sure to always keep a stock of souls to improve your stats.
• Andre the Blacksmith: Also located in Firelink Shrine, Andre enhances your weapons and armor, making him crucial for survival.
• Greirat of the Undead Settlement: He’s a merchant who can be found in a cell in the High Wall of Lothric. Free him and he’ll sell affordable, useful items.
• Yoel of Londor: Find him near the Foot of the High Wall bonfire; he offers free levels but at a cost to your appearance and health.
• Siegward of Catarina: Commonly found in the Undead Settlement (and beyond). Completing his quest line yields great rewards and a deep storyline.

NPC Quests and Decisions#

NPC quests in Dark Souls 3 can be complicated. Many quests have multiple steps and decisions that can change their outcomes:

• Listen Carefully and Follow Through: NPCs give hints on what you need to do next. Missing these steps can result in failing their quests.
• Choices Matter: You can sometimes make decisions that change the fate of NPCs. Be prepared for consequences (both rewarding and fatal) depending on your choices.
• Revisits: Often, to progress NPC quests, revisit areas where you encountered them. This is especially true after defeating major bosses.

Improving Relationships#

Talking to NPCs isn’t always about hitting the “right” dialogue options:

• Gifting: Some NPCs appreciate gifts. For example, giving Umbral Ashes to the Shrine Handmaid will expand her inventory.
• Rescue Operations: Save NPCs like Greirat from their locations to bring them to Firelink Shrine, where they become useful allies.
• Friendship and Rivalry: Decisions can turn NPCs into friends or foes. For example, certain dialogues or actions could trigger hostile behavior.

Final Tips#

• Patience Pays Off: Be thorough with every interaction. NPCs might have more to say after certain game events, so revisit them often.
• Soul Investment: Some NPCs require souls or items to provide services or information, so keep some souls handy.
• Multiple Playthroughs: If you miss an NPC quest or make a decision you regret, remember that you can always try again in another playthrough.

By taking the time to talk and interact with characters properly, you’ll uncover Dark Souls 3’s rich world and make your journey a lot easier – if only by a little. Happy exploring, Ashen One!

Dark Souls 3: Exploration and Secrets#

Traps and Puzzles

Get ready to explore some of the most treacherous locations in Dark Souls 3! The game is well known for its unforgiving traps and mind-bending puzzles. To survive, you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled and your wits about you. Let’s dive into some tips and tricks to help you navigate these deadly hazards.

Pressure Plates and Hidden Traps#

You’ll encounter pressure plates often, especially in areas like the Catacombs of Carthus. These seemingly innocent tiles on the floor can trigger a variety of nasty effects, such as arrow barrages or spike traps. The best way to deal with them is simple: just don’t step on them! Easier said than done, right?

• Pro Tip: Use a weapon or arrows to trigger these traps from a distance. It’s better to waste an arrow than lose half your health.
• Common Spots: Look for slightly raised or different-colored tiles. They usually stand out if you pay attention.

Illusory Walls#

Some walls in Dark Souls 3 aren’t what they seem. These illusory walls hold secrets and valuable loot. Smacking them with your weapon will reveal hidden passages.

• Key Locations: Keep an eye out in areas like the Irithyll of the Boreal Valley and Smouldering Lake.
• Signs of Hidden Walls: Player messages often hint at these walls. Be sure to read notes left by other players.

Rotating Bridges and Platforms#

Rotating bridges and platforms make for some tricky navigation, especially in the Irithyll Dungeon and Lothric Castle. Timing is everything here.

• How to Survive: Take your time and observe the patterns. Rushing through can send you plummeting to your death.
• Loot Opportunities: These locations often hide precious items. Be meticulous in your exploration.

Mimic Chests#

Nothing is quite as heart-stopping as a chest suddenly sprouting legs and teeth. Mimics look just like ordinary treasure chests but will devour you if you let your guard down.

• How to Spot Them: Pay attention to the chain beside the chest. If it’s curled inwards, it’s safe. If it’s pointing straight outward, it’s a Mimic.
• Strategy to Defeat: A good method is to use a Lloyd’s Talisman on them, putting them to sleep. This lets you safely loot them.

Lever Puzzles#

Lever puzzles can be found in areas like the Cathedral of the Deep. Pulling a lever might open a new path, but it can also activate traps or change the layout of the area.

• Solving Tips: Often, solving these involves a bit of trial and error. Be ready for ambushes when you switch things up.
• Patience is Key: Take your time to understand the function of each lever. Don’t rush blindly.

Log Traps and Swinging Blades#

These can catch you off-guard, especially in tight spots. It’s easy to find yourself suddenly flattened or sliced.

• Stay Alert: Listen for the telltale sounds of these traps. Audio cues can be lifesavers.
• Use Cover: Pillars and walls can block the swing of log traps and blades, giving you crucial moments to plan your next move.

Environmental Hazards#

From collapsing floors in Anor Londo to lava pits in the Demon Ruins, environmental hazards can be just as deadly as any enemy.

• Safe Strategies: If you see warning signs, back off! Use ranged attacks if enemies lurk nearby.
• Careful Footing: Watch where you step—one wrong move could mean instant death.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can safely navigate these treacherous traps and puzzles. Stay sharp and happy exploring, Ashen One!