Can You Aim in Dark Souls Remastered? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, you absolutely can aim in Dark Souls Remastered, but the method varies depending on the type of weapon you are using. The game does not feature a modern, free-aiming system for all weapons. Instead, it relies on a mix of manual aiming with bows, and lock-on mechanics for other weapons. This unique approach is a core part of the game’s design, making combat a strategic and challenging experience. Understanding how aiming works is crucial for mastering ranged combat and taking down the many dangerous foes in Lordran.
Aiming with Bows
The Manual Aiming System
The primary way to manually aim in Dark Souls Remastered is with bows. Unlike some modern action RPGs, Dark Souls does not offer free-aiming with a reticle for all weapons. When using a bow, you must follow a specific sequence of inputs to aim effectively:
- Two-Handing the Bow: First, you need to two-hand the bow. On most controllers, this is done by pressing the Y/Triangle button (depending on your platform).
- Entering Aim Mode: Once two-handed, press the left bumper/L1/LT (depending on your platform). This will bring up a reticle and allow you to aim.
- Firing: While aiming, press the right bumper/R1/RT (depending on your platform) to fire an arrow.
Importance of Practice
Mastering bow aiming in Dark Souls Remastered takes practice. The aiming can feel somewhat clunky at first, but with persistence, it becomes an effective way to pick off enemies from a distance, trigger traps, or whittle down the health of powerful bosses. The precision that manual aiming provides is invaluable for certain encounters.
Aiming with Crossbows
Lack of Manual Aim
It’s essential to note that crossbows in Dark Souls Remastered do not have the same manual aiming capabilities as bows. You cannot enter an aim mode with a crossbow and are limited to using the game’s lock-on system. This means you must rely on locking onto a target, which directs the bolt toward the enemy, often at the center of their body.
Workarounds and Alternatives
While you can’t manually aim with a crossbow, there are ways to enhance its effectiveness:
- Binoculars: Using binoculars can help you assess the situation and get a better idea of where the bolt might land. By using binoculars to align your shot and then firing the crossbow (while still locked on), you can sometimes achieve a more precise hit. This is more of a workaround than actual manual aiming.
- Lock-On: The best method for crossbow aiming remains lock-on. Position yourself strategically, lock onto your target, and fire.
Aiming with Items like Firebombs
Using the Camera
When throwing items such as firebombs, the aiming is not tied to a weapon but instead is controlled by the camera. The player throws the item in the direction the camera is facing. This method requires practice, but with training, you can throw items very quickly.
The Bow Technique
A popular method to improve aiming with items is to use the bow’s aiming mode. Players enter aiming mode with a bow, use the reticle to guide where they want the item to land, exit aiming mode, then throw the item in the direction they had previously aimed.
General Aiming Considerations
Lock-On System
The lock-on system is a critical aspect of combat in Dark Souls Remastered. Locking onto a target focuses your attacks on that enemy and facilitates dodging and maneuvering around them. It’s the primary method for using many weapons, especially melee weapons and crossbows.
Strategic Positioning
Regardless of your weapon type, positioning is incredibly important. Use the environment to your advantage to get a better line of sight, lure enemies into favorable positions, and take cover when necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the “aim button” in Dark Souls Remastered?
The “aim button” for bows is typically the left bumper/L1/LT once the bow is equipped and two-handed. This engages the manual aiming reticle.
2. Can I aim with a crossbow in Dark Souls Remastered?
No, you cannot manually aim with a crossbow in Dark Souls Remastered. You must use the lock-on system. Binoculars can aid with aiming, but not in a traditional manual sense.
3. How do I two-hand my weapon to aim?
You two-hand your weapon by pressing the Y/Triangle button (depending on the platform). You need to two-hand your bow before entering aiming mode.
4. How do I get the reticle to appear when using a bow?
To get the reticle, you must two-hand the bow and then press the left bumper/L1/LT.
5. Do all bows aim the same way in Dark Souls Remastered?
Yes, all bows use the same method for aiming: two-hand the bow, press the left bumper/L1/LT to bring up the reticle, and then right bumper/R1/RT to fire.
6. What should I do if I can’t get the bow aim to work?
Ensure you have equipped the bow, two-handed it (press Y/Triangle), and then pressed the correct left bumper/L1/LT to engage the reticle. If it still doesn’t work, check your controller mapping in the settings.
7. How do you aim firebombs effectively?
To aim firebombs or other thrown items effectively, use the camera to point in the direction you want to throw. Practicing will allow you to get the range down, and using the bow’s aiming reticle as a visual aid is a useful tactic.
8. Can I use a crossbow to get critical headshots?
No, since crossbows cannot be manually aimed, you cannot deliberately aim for headshots.
9. Is archery a viable playstyle in Dark Souls Remastered?
Yes, archery is viable, especially with a high dexterity build and potent bows and arrows. It’s crucial to have a backup melee weapon for close-range encounters.
10. Are there different aiming modes in Dark Souls Remastered?
There is only one manual aiming mode, and that is for bows. There is no true “free aim” for other weapons outside of items like firebombs that rely on camera direction.
11. Is it easier to aim with a bow or crossbow in Dark Souls Remastered?
Bows are generally easier to aim effectively due to their manual aiming mode. Crossbows rely entirely on lock-on, which is less precise but can still be effective.
12. Can binoculars help with crossbow aiming?
Yes, while binoculars do not provide a reticle for crossbows, they allow you to preview where your shot may land and make necessary adjustments.
13. Why doesn’t Dark Souls Remastered have free aiming?
The game’s aiming system is part of its deliberate design, creating a slower and more strategic form of combat. The lock-on system also adds a layer of challenge that is central to the Dark Souls experience.
14. What controller settings affect aiming?
Controller settings will not directly affect aiming other than the button mappings. You may want to check if you have remapped buttons by mistake.
15. Can I aim spells in Dark Souls Remastered?
Spells generally rely on lock-on; however, some spells have more specific targeting or area-of-effect options. There is no manual aiming mode for spells.
By understanding the nuances of the aiming system in Dark Souls Remastered, you can significantly improve your combat effectiveness and conquer the challenges that await. While it may not have free aiming like some modern titles, the system is integral to the unique gameplay experience that Dark Souls is known for.