Are Katanas Good in Dark Souls 3? A Comprehensive Guide
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Yes, katanas are definitively good in Dark Souls 3, and often considered a top-tier weapon choice, particularly for Dexterity-focused builds. Their appeal stems from a combination of decent damage output, swift attack speed, and a unique moveset that allows for both offensive pressure and strategic spacing. While not every katana is created equal, the majority offer impressive Dexterity scaling, meaning they become increasingly powerful as you invest more points into that stat. This makes them a reliable and effective choice for both PvE (player versus environment) and PvP (player versus player) combat. The katanas’ ability to parry adds another layer of tactical advantage to their arsenal. However, some have noted the weapon type to be poorly balanced, stating shorter katanas offer no advantages over their larger counterparts.
The Strength of Katanas in Dark Souls 3
The allure of katanas lies in their inherent versatility. They strike a good balance between speed and damage, allowing players to unleash a flurry of attacks without being overly punished for slower swings. Their relatively low stamina consumption allows for sustained offensive pressure, which is particularly advantageous against many of the game’s aggressive enemies. The unique katana moveset is a key selling point; the sheathing attacks provide a mix-up option that can catch opponents off guard in PvP, while the running and rolling attacks maintain momentum and close distances effectively in PvE.
Furthermore, the Dexterity scaling present in the katanas is a crucial factor. As you level up your Dexterity, the damage output of your katana increases significantly. This scaling encourages a particular playstyle that is centered around agility and precision, making it a rewarding and satisfying approach to the game.
Notable Katanas and Their Ranking
Several katanas are available in Dark Souls 3, each with its own set of strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a quick ranking based on community consensus and overall performance:
- Frayed Blade: Arguably the best katana due to its high damage and unique weapon art.
- Washing Pole: A long-reaching katana offering superb range, great for keeping foes at bay.
- Chaos Blade: This katana deals self-inflicted damage with each hit but boasts a high damage output.
- Onikiri and Ubadachi: A dual katana pairing, excellent for swift, relentless attacks.
- Uchigatana: A solid starting katana, widely available and reliable.
- Black Blade: A mid-tier katana, that has potential with a physical build.
- Darkdrift: A unique katana known for its ability to pierce shields.
- Bloodlust: A katana that relies heavily on its weapon art for damage potential.
The Uchigatana, while not the strongest, is a highly accessible and dependable choice. It doesn’t require a massive stat investment, is available early in the game, and provides a great entry point into the katana playstyle. Some even find the Iaito to be comparable, although the Uchigatana often gets the nod for accessibility.
Are Katanas the Best Choice?
While katanas are excellent, they are not the “best” weapon for every situation or build. Certain enemies and bosses may be better handled with different weapon types. For example, heavier Strength-based weapons like Great Hammers and Greataxes can often deal staggeringly high damage per hit, while straight swords might offer better reliability due to a faster move-set and lower stamina usage. Some consider weapons like the Lothric Knight Sword as one of the strongest weapons in the game.
However, for Dexterity builds, katanas are easily among the most effective and enjoyable options. Their balance of speed, damage, and range, combined with the unique parry ability, make them a potent force on the battlefield.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which katana does the most damage in Dark Souls 3?
The Frayed Blade generally deals the highest damage output among katanas due to its high base damage and strong Dexterity scaling.
2. Is the Washing Pole a good katana?
Yes, the Washing Pole is considered a very strong katana due to its excellent range which makes it extremely effective in both PvP and PvE.
3. Is the Uchigatana worth using?
The Uchigatana is a great weapon to start with and remains viable throughout the game due to its balance of damage, speed, and accessibility. It’s worth using, especially for newer players or those experimenting with katana builds.
4. Can katanas parry?
Yes, the katana moveset allows for parrying attacks, which is a crucial advantage in both PvP and against specific enemies.
5. Are dual katanas good?
The dual katana Onikiri and Ubadachi are considered a good choice due to their swift and relentless attack style.
6. What are some alternatives to katanas?
If you aren’t interested in katanas, some alternatives to katanas that are great for dexterity builds are Sellsword Twinblades, Irithyll Straight Sword, and Rapiers.
7. What stat should I focus on for katanas?
Dexterity is the primary stat for katanas, as it directly scales their damage. Some endurance is also helpful for maintaining sustained attacks. Aim for 40 Dexterity and 27 Endurance as a starting point.
8. Is the Bloodlust katana good?
The Bloodlust katana requires a specific build around its Weapon Art and is not typically considered one of the best due to its focus on a niche playstyle.
9. Do katanas scale with Strength?
While katanas have some Strength requirements, they predominantly scale with Dexterity. Strength is secondary for them.
10. Are katanas good in PvP?
Yes, katanas are very good in PvP due to their fast attack speed, parry capabilities, and mix-up potential using sheathing attacks.
11. Can you buff katanas with spells or items?
Yes, you can apply buffs such as magic or resins to katanas to further increase their damage output.
12. What makes the Chaos Blade unique?
The Chaos Blade is unique because it damages the user with each hit, but offers exceptional damage, making it a high-risk, high-reward option.
13. How do I obtain the Frayed Blade?
The Frayed Blade can be obtained by trading the Soul of Darkeater Midir to the Shrine Handmaid.
14. Are the katanas a “noob” friendly weapon?
The Uchigatana, with its reliability and early accessibility, is often considered a great option for beginners. However, mastering the full moveset of a katana and learning to effectively use its parry capability will be a learning curve.
15. Can you infuse katanas?
Yes, you can infuse katanas with various gems to alter their damage scaling. Infusing with a Sharp Gem is a popular option for Dexterity builds to boost the damage of a Katana.
Conclusion
Katanas are a powerful and versatile weapon class in Dark Souls 3. They are an excellent choice for Dexterity-focused builds, offering a blend of speed, damage, and a unique moveset. While no single weapon is the undisputed “best,” katanas consistently rank high among player choices and for good reason. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the game, experimenting with katanas will undoubtedly provide an engaging and rewarding experience.