Dark Souls: Co-op and Multiplayer Guide

Multiplayer Basics#

Dark Souls isn’t just about exploring dungeons and fighting bosses alone. Its multiplayer features add a whole new layer to the game. Here’s what you need to know to get started with co-op and multiplayer.

Summoning and Being Summoned#

Co-op play is a core part of Dark Souls, allowing you to summon other players to help you tackle tough enemies and bosses. To summon someone:

Humanity: First, ensure you’re in Human Form. Use a Humanity item to restore your humanity at a bonfire.
Summon Signs: Look for white signs on the ground. These are placed by other players using a White Sign Soapstone. Interact with the sign to summon them to your world.
Boss Fights: You can summon up to two players to help you. Note that you can only summon in areas with bosses still alive. Once the area’s boss is defeated, summon signs will disappear.

To leave your summon sign for others to find:

White Sign Soapstone: Obtain this item from Solaire of Astora in the Undead Burg by talking to him.
Place Sign: Use the item in your inventory to place your summon sign on the ground.
Wait: Other players will see your sign and can summon you. You’ll be transported to their world, and your task is to help them defeat the level’s boss.

Invasions#

Dark Souls also has a competitive multiplayer aspect involving invasions:

Invading Players: Use a Cracked Red Eye Orb or Red Eye Orb to invade another player’s world. The objective is to defeat the host (the player you’re invading).
Phantoms and Hosts: While invading, you’ll appear as a red phantom. The host and any co-op partners they have summoned will try to defeat you to protect their world.
Covenants and Invading: Certain in-game factions or “Covenants” focus on invading others. The Darkwraiths and the Gravelord Servants are two examples.
Invasion Rules: You can only invade players who are in Human Form and in certain areas. Your level and overall ranking affect who you can invade.

Helpful Items#

Multiplayer in Dark Souls involves many special items:

White Sign Soapstone: Creates a summon sign to join other players’ worlds.
Red Eye Orb/Cracked Red Eye Orb: Used to invade another player’s world.
Blue Eye Orb: Used by members of the Darkmoon Blades Covenant to invade the worlds of guilty players.
Dried Finger: Resets the multiplayer state in your world, making it easier to get invaded again.

Messages and Ghosts#

A unique multiplayer feature in Dark Souls is the messaging system:

Orange Guidance Soapstone: Use this to leave messages on the ground. Other players will see them in their world and can rate them.
Types of Messages: Share tips, warnings, or even troll other players. These notes appear in fixed templates to prevent inappropriate content.
Ghosts and Bloodstains: You’ll see transparent ghosts of other players in their own games, offering a glimpse into their actions. Bloodstains, on the other hand, show how players met their end – a useful warning for dangers ahead.

Covenants#

Covenants are groups you can join throughout the game, each offering different multiplayer benefits:

Warriors of Sunlight: Enhanced co-op rewards and gold summon signs.
Forest Hunter: Defend the forest by invading intruders.
Darkwraith: Focus entirely on invading and defeating other players.

Joining a Covenant changes the dynamics of your multiplayer interactions, unlocking new items and abilities tied to that Covenant’s goals.

Conclusion#

Embracing multiplayer in Dark Souls is essential for experiencing the full depth of the game. Whether you want to aid fellow adventurers, battle against invaders, or explore the complexities of Covenants, there’s something for everyone. Just remember, the world of Lordran is interconnected not just by lore but by the countless players journeying through it alongside you. Happy summoning and beware of invasions!

Multiplayer Features in Dark Souls#

Dark Souls isn’t just about facing monster-filled mazes alone; its multiplayer features add a whole new dimension to Lordran. Whether you’re eager to connect with friends or want to square off against other players, Dark Souls has you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about the multiplayer aspects of the game.

Co-op to Survive Together#

In Dark Souls, you don’t have to brave the darkness alone. Co-op makes it possible to summon allies to help you tackle tough bosses or tricky sections. To get started, you’ll need to be in “human form.” This means using a Humanity item at a bonfire to reverse hollowing. Once you’re human, here’s what you can do:

White Sign Soapstone: This item allows you to put down a summon sign for other players to find. If someone uses your sign, you’ll be transported to their world to assist them.
Summoning: Look for summon signs on the ground, which can appear as glowing white circles. Interact with one to bring another player into your world.
Area Boss: The co-op session ends when the boss of your current area is defeated. Helping others can reward you with souls and Humanity.

Remember, you can only summon friends who are within a specific level range of your own. This is to keep the game balanced and challenging.

PvP Combat: Invade or Be Invaded#

Player vs. Player (PvP) adds another layer of danger to your journey. As you explore, you might notice sinister signs indicating a potential invasion. Here’s what you need to know to defend yourself or to become the invader:

Red Sign Soapstone: This lets you leave a red summon sign, inviting others to summon you as a hostile invader.
Cracked Red Eye Orbs: With these, you can invade another player’s world directly. Be prepared for a tough fight; other players won’t go down easily.
Forest Hunters Covenant: As a member of this covenant, you get auto-summoned to invade trespassers in the Darkroot Garden area.

When invaded, your goal is to survive: fend off the attacker or reach the boss gate to end the invasion. If you defeat the invader, you’ll be rewarded with souls and increase your Humanity count.

Covenants Offer Unique Multiplayer Interactions#

Covenants in Dark Souls serve as factions you can join, each with its unique multiplayer features. Joining a covenant can make your multiplayer experience more immersive and rewarding:

Warrior of Sunlight: Known for their golden summon signs, these players are easier to spot and more likely to be summoned for co-op. They gain Sunlight Medals for successful cooperation, which can be traded for powerful miracles.
Darkwraiths: Aimed at those who prefer invading other players, they use Cracked Red Eye Orbs more effectively and earn Humanity when they successfully defeat a host.
Way of White: Faithful players who have an easier time finding co-op partners, especially other covenant members.
Gravelord Servant: These players can infect others’ worlds with tougher enemies by using Eye of Death. They invade other worlds but in a more passive-aggressive way.

Covenants add layers of depth and strategy, making every multiplayer encounter more dynamic.

Rules to Keep in Mind#

Level Ranges: The game pairs players based on level, making sure you both have a fair chance.
Soul Memory: Your accumulated souls can also affect who you can interact with, ensuring balanced play.
Network Options: Make sure your game is set to online mode to utilize these features. Check your network settings if you run into trouble connecting.

Tips for Successful Multiplayer Interaction#

Communication: You can’t use voice chat in Dark Souls, so use gestures and in-game messages to communicate.
Preparation: Before you summon or invade, stock up on essential items like Estus Flasks and repair your equipment.
Etiquette: Many players adhere to unwritten rules, like bowing before a duel or not healing during a PvP fight. Respect goes a long way in this community.

Dark Souls’ multiplayer features turn an already thrilling game into a rich, interactive experience that keeps you on your toes. Whether you’re summoning allies, invading others, or joining covenants, the multiplayer scene helps keep Lordran alive and unpredictable. Dive in and enjoy the camaraderie—or chaos—that awaits!

Co-op Play Tips#

If you’re diving into the unforgiving world of Dark Souls, having a buddy can make all the difference. Co-op play not only makes the game more fun, but it also can save you from a lot of frustration. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your cooperative adventures.

1. Humanity is Key#

To summon a friend, you need to be in human form. Use a Humanity item at a bonfire to reverse hollowing. Turn human, and you’ll be able to see summon signs on the ground. This is your ticket to bringing friends or other players into your world.

2. Set Up Summon Signs#

To help others, use the White Sign Soapstone from your inventory. Place your summon sign in a clear, visible spot—usually near bonfires or right before boss fog gates. Players will then see your sign and summon you to their world.

3. Communication is Crucial#

Use voice chat or another form of communication if you’re playing with friends. Dark Souls doesn’t have an in-game voice chat, so use external apps like Discord. This helps you strategize and warn each other of upcoming dangers.

4. Know the Level Range#

Dark Souls features level ranges for co-op matchmaking. If you’re too high or low in levels compared to your friends, you might not see each other’s summon signs. Generally, you want your levels to be within 10 + 10% of each other. For example, if you’re level 50, you can interact with players from level 35 to 65.

5. Rest at Checkpoints Frequently#

You both need to sync up your progress. Have your host rest at bonfires before moving forward. Resting at the same bonfire means you’ll respawn there if something goes wrong (and trust us, it will).

6. Plan Your Routes#

Talk about which direction you want to go and stick to a plan. Splitting up usually leads to disaster. One player’s knowledge can save the whole team from ambushes or pitfalls. And remember, some areas are restricted to hosts only.

While you can’t drop items like Estus Flasks directly, other consumables and weapons can be shared. Drop spare weapons, armor, or humanity for your friends to use. Buff spells and miracles are a great way to prep before tough fights.

8. Watch Out for Invaders#

Playing co-op increases the likelihood of being invaded by hostile players. Stay alert and be prepared to defend yourself. A well-coordinated team can take down invaders quickly if you stay together and keep communication open.

9. Use the Environment to Your Advantage#

Environmental traps and hostiles can become tools against invaders. Lead them into tougher enemies or trap areas to gain the upper hand. Also, help each other with timed jumps and tricky platforms—two heads are better than one.

10. Know When to Let Go#

If you’re repeatedly failing at a section, it might be best to take a break or tackle it solo. Sometimes, co-op can make tricky areas harder because of increased enemy health and aggression. Recharge and return with a fresh perspective.

Playing Dark Souls in co-op can turn a punishing journey into a memorable adventure with friends. Follow these tips to make your time in Lordran a little less daunting and a lot more enjoyable. Happy summoning!

Dealing With PvP#

Alright, so you’re cruising through Lordran, feeling pretty good about your progress, when suddenly – bam! – you’re invaded by another player. Welcome to PvP (Player vs. Player). It can be super frustrating, but with a few tips, you’ll be better prepared to handle those unwanted guests. Here’s how you can hold your own.

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation#

First things first, don’t panic. Panicking leads to poor decisions. When you see that invasion message, take a deep breath. Look around and find a good spot to engage the invader. Preferably, find an area where you don’t have to worry about other enemies or tricky terrain. This is key to keeping the fight on your terms.

Equip the Right Gear#

Your equipment can make a big difference in PvP. Here are some tips on what to gear up with:

Fast Weapons: Swords and spears are generally good because they’re fast. You can get in quick hits without leaving yourself too open.
Shields: A nice shield with high stability will block a lot of attacks. If you’re comfortable parrying, a medium shield like the Crest Shield is a great choice.
Armor: Balance is essential. Heavy armor can protect but will slow you down. Lighter armor keeps you nimble but makes you susceptible to heavy hits. Find a good mix. The Elite Knight Set is often a solid choice for balanced defense and mobility.

Know Your Moves#

Practice makes perfect, especially in PvP. Get familiar with your weapon’s move set. Know the difference between a regular attack, heavy attack, and any special moves your weapon might have. Learning to dodge effectively is just as important. Lock onto your target, keep your shield up, and roll to avoid attacks when necessary.

Use the Environment#

Fighting in different locations can dramatically change the outcome. Lead the invader to a place where you have the advantage. For example:

Narrow Passages: These make it hard for opponents to dodge or backstab.
Ledges: Knock them off with a strong attack or bait them into falling.
Fog Gates: These can be useful choke points for setting traps.

Employ Tricks and Tactics#

Invaders often come prepared, so you’ll need to use your head. Here are some slick tactics:

Fake Retreats: Pretend to flee to lure them into an ambush.
Environment Hazards: Lead them into traps or enemy mobs. Sometimes letting the environment do your dirty work is the best strategy.
Spells and Items: Don’t forget about pyromancy or sorceries. Stuff like Toxic Mist or Great Chaos Fireball can turn the tide. Buffing your weapon with items like Gold Pine Resin can add extra damage.

Know When To Ask For Help#

It’s not a sign of weakness to call in reinforcements. Use your White Soapstone to summon friendly players if you’re really in a bind. Sometimes having an ally or two can make all the difference. Keep in mind though, if you bring in a summons, you’re more likely to attract even more invaders.

Practice Good Sportsmanship#

Remember, Dark Souls is a community-driven game with an emphasis on respect. Bowing before and after a duel is a common practice. And it’s always good etiquette to avoid cheap tactics, like healing excessively or hiding out until the timer runs out.

PvP will always be a roll of the dice. Even the best players face losses, but that’s part of the game. Enjoy the challenge, learn from each fight, and you’ll notice improvement. Keep honing those skills, and soon, you’ll be the one striking fear into the hearts of your invaders. Stay determined, and good luck out there, Ashen One.

Dark Souls: Co-op and Multiplayer Guide#

Talking to Players#

Dark Souls is notorious for its obtuse multiplayer mechanics and lack of traditional voice chat or messaging. Instead, players communicate through unique in-game systems that require some understanding to use effectively. Here’s how you can interact with other players in the world of Dark Souls.

1. Messages on the Ground#

The most common way to communicate with others in Dark Souls is through the Orange Guidance Soapstone. This item lets you write messages on the ground for other players to read. You can purchase the soapstone early from the undead merchant in the Undead Burg.

Uses of Messages#

Warnings: Let players know about upcoming traps or ambushes.
Hints: Give cryptic clues about secrets or shortcuts.
Praise: Leave encouraging words for struggling players.
Trolling: Mislead others for a laugh (while this can be funny, beware of backlash).

When a message is rated, the writer gets a tiny health boost, so leaving helpful tips can be a real lifesaver (literally).

2. Soapstone Summoning#

Another critical component of player interaction is summoning and being summoned. Use the White Sign Soapstone to leave your summon sign on the ground. When you summon someone, or they summon you, you enter each other’s worlds to play together.

Key Points#

Phantom Colors: White signs bring friendly phantoms. Red signs are for PvP (player versus player).
Co-op Boss Battles: Summon others before a boss fight to increase your chances of victory.
Sunlight Medals and Covenants: Join covenants like the Warriors of Sunlight to get rewards for helping other players.

Remember, you need to be in human form to summon or be summoned, so stock up on Humanity!

3. Gestures#

Since Dark Souls lacks voice chat, gestures are your main tools for direct interaction. By using different gestures, you can communicate a wide array of emotions and commands.

Basic Gestures#

Point: Indicate direction or give non-verbal instructions.
Wave: Friendly greeting to new allies or to thank them.
Bow: Show respect or gratitude.
Applaud: Praise good work or an impressive feat.
Beckon: Signal players to follow you.

You’ll unlock more gestures by interacting with NPCs and through game progression. Knowing the right gesture for the right moment can enhance cooperation, even without words.

4. Revisiting Messages#

As you progress, it’s useful to revisit old areas to check for new messages. Player hints evolve over time, reflecting the cumulative knowledge of the community.

Tips for Effective Message Writing#

Be Clear: While cryptic hints add to the mystique, overly vague messages can puzzle players more than help them.
Use Templates: The game offers templates. Utilize them to keep your messages concise and understandable.
Stay Positive: Encouraging notes can push struggling players to keep going.

From leaving strategic hints and summoning comrades to battle mighty bosses, to using gestures to express yourself, learning to talk to players in Dark Souls can turn a solitary, punishing experience into a shared adventure. So, grab your soapstones and start connecting with your fellow undead!

By mastering these communication tools, you’ll find that the world of Dark Souls is not just filled with danger and despair but also camaraderie and a sense of shared purpose. Now, get out there and praise the sun! 🌞