How to Acquire the Finest Steel: Obtaining Official Armor in Demon’s Souls
So you’re venturing into the brutal world of Demon’s Souls, seeking to clad yourself in the finest, most resilient armor available? Specifically, you’re after official armor, often referring to unique sets not found lying around but rather earned through specific actions. The short answer is: there is no single “official armor set” universally recognized by that name. However, players often use the term to refer to armor obtained through completing specific character questlines or defeating particularly challenging enemies that grant you their armor. The most prominent examples of this are the Brushwood Armor, Binded Set, and to a lesser extent, Old King’s Set. How you get them differs significantly, and each requires dedication and skill. Let’s delve into the specifics of acquiring these coveted defenses.
The Hunt for Brushwood Armor
The Brushwood Armor is perhaps the most famous of these “official” sets. This incredibly heavy armor is acquired by completing the questline of Blacksmith Boldwin in the Nexus.
How to Obtain the Brushwood Armor
- Reach World 2-1 (Stonefang Tunnel): Progress far enough into the Stonefang Tunnel to reach Blacksmith Ed.
- Acquire the Searing Demon Soul: Defeat the Flamelurker boss in World 2-2. This is not an easy fight, so be prepared!
- Give the Searing Demon Soul to Blacksmith Ed: Return to Blacksmith Ed and give him the Searing Demon Soul. This unlocks his ability to forge special weapons.
- Give the Iron Set to Blacksmith Boldwin: Return to the Nexus and speak to Blacksmith Boldwin. He will request the Iron Set. If you don’t have the Iron Set, you can purchase it from the Dregling Merchant in World 1-1.
- Blacksmith Boldwin Forges the Brushwood Armor: After giving Blacksmith Boldwin the Iron Set, he will eventually forge the Brushwood Armor for you. This process takes place behind the scenes, and you won’t see him actively working on it. Progress through other parts of the game, and periodically return to Boldwin. Eventually, he will give you the entire Brushwood Armor set as thanks for helping him rekindle his passion for blacksmithing.
The Enigmatic Binded Set
The Binded Set is another “official” armor obtained in a unique way. This armor is not particularly strong defensively, but it’s notable for its association with the mysterious character Yurt, the Silent Chief.
How to Obtain the Binded Set
- Rescue Yurt from World 3-2 (Latria): In the Tower of Latria, specifically the area with the enormous ballistae, you will find Yurt imprisoned in a cage. Freeing him is the first step.
- Yurt Starts Assassinating NPCs in the Nexus: After being freed, Yurt will appear in the Nexus. He will begin to murder key NPCs after you defeat certain bosses in the game.
- Defeat Yurt in the Nexus: You must stop Yurt before he kills too many crucial NPCs (like Stockpile Thomas or Blacksmith Boldwin!). He’ll be located on the upper levels of the Nexus, near the stairwell. Defeating him awards you the Binded Set.
Claiming the Old King’s Set
While not explicitly tied to a questline, acquiring the Old King’s Set is a significant achievement. The Old King’s Set is arguably the most powerful armor in the game.
How to Obtain the Old King’s Set
- Defeat Old King Allant: Progress through World 1-4 and defeat the final boss, Old King Allant.
- Return to the Nexus: After defeating Old King Allant, return to the Nexus.
- Find the Armor in the Nexus: The Old King’s Set is in a previously inaccessible spot on the upper level of the Nexus. It becomes accessible upon beating the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about obtaining armor and related topics in Demon’s Souls:
1. What are the best early-game armor sets?
The Fluted Set (found in World 1-1) and the Leather Set (purchased from the Dregling Merchant in World 1-1) are excellent choices for the early game. They offer decent protection without severely hindering your mobility.
2. How important is equipment load?
Extremely important! Equipment load affects your movement speed and dodge roll. Staying under 50% of your maximum equipment load grants you the fastest roll, while being over 70% makes you “fat roll,” which is slow and leaves you vulnerable. Manage your equipment carefully.
3. Can I upgrade armor in Demon’s Souls?
No, you cannot upgrade armor in Demon’s Souls. What you find is what you get, making choosing the right armor for your playstyle crucial.
4. What stats should I prioritize when choosing armor?
Consider physical defense, magic defense, fire defense, and bleed resistance. Your build and the areas you’re exploring will influence your priorities. Higher Poise is also useful as it is the ability of a character to prevent being stunned while being attacked.
5. Where can I find the Dregling Merchant?
The Dregling Merchant is located at the beginning of World 1-1, near the gate that leads towards the Phalanx boss. He sells various useful items, including the Leather Set and healing grass.
6. What’s the best way to increase my equipment load capacity?
Increasing your Endurance stat will raise your maximum equipment load. Leveling up Endurance is crucial for wearing heavier armor without being encumbered.
7. Is there a way to repair broken armor?
Armor does not break in Demon’s Souls. However, weapons do, so make sure to keep an eye on your weapon’s durability.
8. What does the “Poise” stat do?
Poise determines how easily you can be staggered by enemy attacks. Higher poise means you’re less likely to be interrupted, allowing you to finish your attacks even when taking damage.
9. How do I access World 3-2 (Tower of Latria)?
World 3-2 is accessed by selecting the Archstone in the Nexus corresponding to Latria. It’s the third Archstone from the left.
10. Can I get locked out of Yurt’s questline?
Yes. If you defeat all the bosses in an area before freeing Yurt, you may not be able to trigger his assassination events in the Nexus. Also, if you kill Yurt before he starts killing NPCs in the Nexus, you can loot his armour before he kills anyone.
11. How do I know if Yurt has started killing NPCs?
Key NPCs will be found dead in the Nexus. Yurt will leave behind a small token near the body of his victims.
12. Is the Brushwood Armor worth the weight?
That depends on your build. The Brushwood Armor offers exceptional physical defense but its extreme weight can make dodging difficult. This can be mitigated with specific rings, such as the Ring of Great Strength, acquired by freeing Patches, the Hyena and buying it from him later in the Nexus.
13. What other unique armor sets exist in Demon’s Souls?
Besides the Brushwood, Binded, and Old King’s sets, you can find sets like the Gloom Set (dropped by Selen Vinland in World 5-3) and the Rogue’s Set (found in various locations). Experiment and find what suits your playstyle.
14. Does armor appearance change based on my gender?
No, armor appearance does not change based on your character’s gender. What you see is what you get.
15. Where can I learn more about game mechanics and strategies in Demon’s Souls?
You can delve into the research and theories explored by organizations like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. Understanding how people learn and interact with games can deepen your appreciation and mastery of challenging titles like Demon’s Souls.
Mastering armor acquisition in Demon’s Souls is a significant step toward conquering the game’s challenging world. Each set offers unique benefits and drawbacks, demanding careful consideration of your playstyle and build. Happy hunting, and may your armor always be strong!