Welcome to our comprehensive “Dark Souls 3: Weapon Upgrade Guide”! If you’re looking to dominate the treacherous world of Lothric, upgrading your weapons is crucial for survival. In this guide, we’ll delve into essential topics such as Finding Materials, the intricacies of Weapon Upgrades, different Upgrade Paths, fascinating Special Upgrades, and practical tips on Keeping Weapons Durable. Whether you’re a seasoned warrior or a new adventurer, our guide will empower you to enhance your arsenal and conquer your foes with ease. Ready to sharpen your blades and strengthen your gear? Let’s get started!

Finding Materials#

So you’ve decided to brave the unforgiving world of Dark Souls 3 and want to upgrade your weapons to make the journey a bit easier. Great choice! But now you need to find those all-important upgrade materials scattered across the dangerous lands. Don’t worry; we got you covered. Here’s a detailed breakdown on where to snag all the materials you’ll need.

Titanite Shards#

Titanite Shards are the most basic upgrade material, but they are crucial early in the game. You can find them all over the starting areas.

• High Wall of Lothric: This place has several Titanite Shards. Check around dead bodies and in hidden corners.
• Undead Settlement: There’s one in the house full of thralls. Also, don’t forget to explore rooftops and scavenger areas thoroughly.

Large Titanite Shards#

Once you’re past the early game, you’ll need Large Titanite Shards to give your weapons that extra kick.

• Road of Sacrifices: You can find a few in the watery area with the giant crabs. Be prepared for a tough fight!
• Farron Keep: There are multiple Large Titanite Shards scattered throughout the swamp. Look around every tower and under structures, but watch out for poison.

Titanite Chunks#

Further into the game, you’ll start needing Titanite Chunks for higher-level upgrades.

• Irithyll of the Boreal Valley: There are several chunks around. Specifically, explore near the Pontiff Sulyvahn bonfire.
• Anor Londo: You’ll find Titanite Chunks scattered in hidden alcoves and guarded by tough enemies. Explore every nook and cranny and don’t run past suspicious-looking spots.

Titanite Scales#

For unique weapons and boss weapons, Titanite Scales are your go-to. They can be harder to find but are invaluable.

• Farron Keep: There are Crystal Lizards here that drop Titanite Scales. Be quick, or they’ll disappear.
• Archdragon Peak: This late-game area has several scales lying around, and more Crystal Lizards to hunt.

Titanite Slabs#

The rarest upgrade material is the Titanite Slab, used for maxing out your weapon’s upgrade level.

• Lothric Castle: In the Grand Archives, there’s a rare Titanite Slab. Keep an eye open for secret passages.
• Kiln of the First Flame: There’s one final slab here. Given it’s one of the end areas, expect a tough battle.

Unique Materials#

Some weapons need specific materials that aren’t as common. Here’s where to find a few:

• Twinkling Titanite: You can find these throughout the world, especially dropped by Crystal Lizards. Anor Londo and Lothric Castle are your best bets.
• Pale Tongue: Needed for certain covenant items, these can be farmed by killing Darkwraiths in Farron Keep.

Farming Tips#

• Re-explore Areas: Sometimes, re-checking an area can reveal hidden items you missed the first time.
• Covenants and NPC Quests: Completing certain NPC quests or joining covenants can reward you with upgrade materials.
• Use Item Discovery Gear: Equip items like the Crystal Sage’s Rapier or the Symbol of Avarice to boost item drops from enemies.

Remember, persistence is key in the world of Dark Souls 3. Good luck hunting down all those upgrade materials and may your sword be ever sharp!

Weapon Upgrades#

In Dark Souls 3, upgrading your weapons is crucial to surviving the enemies and bosses you’ll face. Here’s everything you need to know to sharpen your blades and boost your damage.

Basics of Weapon Upgrades#

The main way to enhance your weapons in Dark Souls 3 is through reinforcement. This process increases your weapon’s base damage and scaling. To do this, you’ll need Titanite, which comes in different forms. You’ll mainly find Titanite from from defeated enemies, chests, and hidden around the world.

Types of Titanite#

Different weapons need different types of Titanite at various upgrade levels:

• Titanite Shard: Used for upgrades from +1 to +3.
• Large Titanite Shard: Needed for upgrades from +4 to +6.
• Titanite Chunk: Required for upgrades from +7 to +9.
• Titanite Slab: The rarest of all, upgrades your weapon to the final +10.

Special weapons, like Boss weapons or unique items, often use Twinkling Titanite or Titanite Scales instead. These can also be found in the world or from certain NPCs.

Where to Upgrade#

Head over to Blacksmith Andre in Firelink Shrine to upgrade your weapons. Talk to him, and choose the “Reinforce Weapon” option. Make sure you have the necessary materials and souls for the upgrade.

Infusing Weapons#

Besides simple reinforcement, you can also infuse weapons to change their attributes. Infusions allow you to tailor a weapon to fit your character build. For example:

• Raw Gem: Increases base damage but removes scaling.
• Sharp Gem: Improves Dexterity scaling.
• Heavy Gem: Boosts Strength scaling.
• Fire Gem: Adds fire damage.
• Magic Gem: Adds magic damage and scaling.

You’ll need infusion gems and at least one Titanite Shard to infuse a weapon. Blacksmith Andre handles these too, but you need to give him the proper coals first. Coals are scattered throughout the game’s world, so keep an eye out for them.

Special Upgrades#

Some weapons and shields can only be upgraded in specific ways. Boss weapons, for example, can be reinforced using Titanite Scales instead of the regular Titanite progression. Twinkling Titanite is needed for upgrading unique items like special shields or weapons found in the game.

Farming Titanite#

Running low on upgrade materials? Here are a few hotspots for farming:

• Titanite Shards: Early game enemies around the High Wall of Lothric.
• Large Titanite Shards: Try the Cathedral of the Deep or farming the slugs in Farron Keep.
• Titanite Chunks: Most reliably found in late-game areas like Lothric Castle or the Untended Graves.
• Titanite Slabs: There are a limited number of these in each playthrough. Guarded by tough enemies or hidden in secret locations.

Tips and Strategies#

• Choose Wisely: Not every weapon is worth upgrading. Focus on ones that fit your playstyle.
• Spread Out Upgrades: Rather than maxing one weapon, consider upgrading several to level six or seven. This gives you versatility in combat.
• Buff Before Battles: Use resins or spells to temporarily buff your weapon for tough fights.

Upgrading your weapons is a surefire way to turn the tide in battle. Collect those Titanites, visit Andre often, and always be prepared for whatever foes the game throws at you. Happy hunting, Ashen Ones!

Dark Souls 3: Weapon Upgrade Guide#

Upgrade Paths#

Upgrading weapons in Dark Souls 3 is key to surviving the brutal challenges the game throws at you. Understanding the upgrade paths can turn your ordinary sword into a boss-slayer. Here, we break down everything you need to know about upgrading your gear.

Basic Weapon Upgrades#

Weapons in Dark Souls 3 are typically upgraded using Titanite. There are several types of Titanite, so let’s break them down:

• Titanite Shard: Used for upgrading weapons from +1 to +3.
• Large Titanite Shard: Needed for upgrades from +4 to +6.
• Titanite Chunk: Required for upgrades from +7 to +9.
• Titanite Slab: Needed to max out a weapon upgrade to +10.

For instance, if you have a basic Long Sword, here’s how it would progress:

1. +1 to +3: Titanite Shard
2. +4 to +6: Large Titanite Shard
3. +7 to +9: Titanite Chunk
4. +10: Titanite Slab

Special Infusions#

Besides basic upgrades, you can also infuse your weapons to give them elemental properties or alter their scaling. Here are some common infusions:

• Raw: Increases base damage but removes scaling.
• Refined: Balances strength and dexterity scaling.
• Fire: Adds fire damage but reduces physical damage.
• Deep: Adds dark damage while reducing physical damage.

Each infusion requires a different gem and some Souls. For example:

• Raw Gem: Found early in the game, this is useful if your character’s stats aren’t high enough for scaling yet.
• Fire Gem: Great for enemies weak to fire, early to mid-game.

How to Infuse#

1. Find Andre the Blacksmith in Firelink Shrine.
2. Choose “Infuse Weapon.”
3. Select your preferred gem and a weapon to infuse.

Remember, you cannot infuse all weapons. Boss weapons and some special weapons are exceptions.

Unique Upgrade Materials#

Some weapons need special materials for upgrades rather than the standard Titanite types. For example:

• Twinkling Titanite: Used for special weapons, needing fewer quantities than standard Titanite.
• Titanite Scale: Required for upgrading boss weapons and certain unique weapons.

Twinkling Titanite Progression#

1. +1 to +4: Twinkling Titanite (scales the same as standard weapons, missing the +5 step)
2. +5: Max out with Twinkling Titanite

Farming Upgrade Materials#

Upgrading your favorite gear requires collecting a lot of these materials. Here’s where to find them early on:

• Titanite Shards: Dropped by Hollows in the High Wall of Lothric and throughout early areas.
• Large Titanite Shards: Found in the Cathedral of the Deep and around Farron Keep.
• Titanite Chunks: Available in Lothric Castle and dropped by certain enemies in later game areas.
• Titanite Slabs: Rare; found in secret areas, or as rewards for completing quests.

Detailed Locations#

• Fire Gem: Defeat enemies called Fire Demons in the Undead Settlement.
• Twinkling Titanite: Often dropped by Crystal Lizards scattered across various maps. They won’t respawn, so remember where they are.

Final Tips#

• Upgrade your main weapon first, ensuring it keeps pace with the increasing difficulty.
• Experiment with different infusions to see what fits your playstyle.
• Keep an eye out for Crystal Lizards, and don’t hesitate to use Homeward Bones if you need to retreat after a quick farm session.

Upgrading wisely makes the difference between a difficult slog and a rewarding challenge. Happy slaying!

Special Upgrades in Dark Souls 3#

In Dark Souls 3, upgrading your weapons is a major part of becoming that unstoppable champion you’ve been dreaming of. While standard upgrades can get the job done, sometimes you need that extra magic touch to truly shine. This section covers the special upgrades: infusions and boss weapons. These are your ticket to maximizing your potential and dealing out some serious damage.

Infusions#

Infusions allow you to change the properties of your weapon, adding elemental damage or scaling with different stats. To do this, you’ll need to visit Andre the blacksmith in Firelink Shrine and bring along special materials called “Gems.” Here’s a breakdown of the different infusions:

• Raw Infusion: Perfect for early game. Removes stat scaling but boosts base damage significantly. Great when you don’t have high stats yet.
• Refined Infusion: This one boosts both your Strength and Dexterity scaling. If you’re building a versatile warrior, this is your go-to.
• Heavy Infusion: Prioritizes Strength scaling. Handy when you’re focusing on getting swole and smashing enemies.
• Sharp Infusion: Prioritizes Dexterity scaling. For those who prefer quick, agile combat styles.
• Fire Infusion: Adds fire damage but removes all scaling. Good for enemies weak to fire.
• Chaos Infusion: Adds both fire and dark damage. Scales with both Intelligence and Faith. Perfect for Pyromancers.
• Lightning Infusion: Adds lightning damage. Great for Faith builds.
• Crystal Infusion: Adds magic damage and scales with Intelligence. Must-have for Sorcerers.
• Blessed Infusion: Adds slight HP regeneration and scales with Faith. Ideal for Paladins.
• Simple Infusion: Adds magic damage, scales with Intelligence, and regenerates FP. Ideal for spellcasters who like melee.
• Dark Infusion: Adds dark damage. Scales with both Intelligence and Faith. For those who dabble in the dark arts.

To get the most out of these infusions, you’ll need to find the corresponding Gems. These are scattered throughout the world and often drop from specific enemies.

Boss Weapons#

Defeating bosses can be its own reward, but sometimes, you can turn their memories into power. You can transmute their souls into powerful weapons using Ludleth of Courland in Firelink Shrine. These weapons are often unique and carry special abilities that regular weapons just can’t match. Here are some standout examples:

• Wolf Knight’s Greatsword: Created from the soul of the Abyss Watchers. Has a special moveset that mimics Artorias.
• Hollowslayer Greatsword: Made from the soul of the Curse-rotted Greatwood. Deals bonus damage to Hollows.
• Dancer’s Enchanted Swords: From the soul of the Dancer of the Boreal Valley. Dual swords that deal a mix of physical and magical damage.
• Profaned Greatsword: From the soul of Pontiff Sulyvahn. Unleashes a burst of fire on strong attacks.
• Yhorm’s Great Machete: Built from the soul of Yhorm the Giant. Extremely high damage but with a hefty weight.
• Dragonslayer Greataxe: For the soul of the Dragonslayer Armour. Packs a punch and deals lightning damage.

To transmute these souls, you’ll need the Transposing Kiln, which you get after defeating the Curse-rotted Greatwood. Once you have it, Ludleth can turn those souls into weapons of pure awesome.

Tips for Special Upgrades#

• Plan Your Build: Before diving into infusions, decide on your primary stats. Choosing the right infusion can make or break your build.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different infusions. You can always respec your character at Rosaria’s Bedchamber if things don’t work out.
• Collect Boss Souls: Some bosses offer different weapon options. Check what each soul can be turned into before making a decision.
• Upgrade Alongside Infusions: Infusions are more effective on fully upgraded weapons. So, keep leveling up your weapons as you go.

That’s the scoop on special upgrades in Dark Souls 3. Whether you’re infusing your favorite sword with some magical power or wielding the epic weapon of a fallen boss, these upgrades can tip the scales in your favor. Now get out there and show those bosses who’s boss!

Dark Souls 3: Keeping Weapons Durable#

In Dark Souls 3, carefully managing your equipment’s durability is crucial to surviving the dark and challenging landscapes. Here’s how to keep your weapons from breaking at the worst possible moments.

Check Durability Regularly#

Each weapon has a different durability rating. Regularly check the durability meter, accessible through the equipment menu by highlighting the weapon and pressing ‘Y’ (Xbox) or ‘Triangle’ (PlayStation). If it’s looking low, consider switching to a backup or taking precautions before it breaks mid-battle.

Utilize Bonfires#

Your best friend for weapon maintenance is the bonfire. When you rest at a bonfire, your weapons’ durability is fully restored. Make it a habit to rest at bonfires whenever possible, especially before embarking on lengthy quests or entering boss fights. This simple act can save you a ton of grief.

Carry Backup Weapons#

Always carry a spare weapon in your inventory. While some weapons boast high durability, extended battles can wear them down quicker than you might expect. A reliable backup weapon ensures you’re never caught defenseless. Equip it in a secondary weapon slot to switch quickly if needed.

Weapon Repair Powder#

Weapon Repair Powder is a consumable item specifically designed to restore weapon durability on the go. It’s found throughout the game or can be bought from certain merchants like Greirat in Firelink Shrine. Keep a few of these handy in case you’re far from a bonfire and your main weapon starts showing wear.

Avoid Attacking Hard Surfaces#

Swinging your weapon into walls, rocks, or other hard surfaces reduces its durability. Be mindful of where you’re attacking—it’s best to avoid unnecessary strikes unless you’re certain there’s a hidden path or an illusionary wall. Precise strikes save durability and help keep your weapon ready for the next enemy.

Upgrade Your Weapons#

Upgrading your weapons not only increases their strength but can also affect their durability. Regularly visit the blacksmith in Firelink Shrine and use Titanite shards to upgrade your weapons whenever possible. Stronger weapons tend to be tougher, allowing them to withstand more wear and tear before needing repairs.

Understand Weapon Buffs and Enchantments#

Some weapon buffs and enchantments affect durability. For instance, certain magic spells or consumable items, like Gold Pine Resin, can temporarily make your weapons more effective without needing to use them excessively. Strategic use of buffs can result in fewer strikes required to down foes, preserving your weapon’s lifespan.