Can You Summon Solaire for the Bell Gargoyles in Dark Souls? A Comprehensive Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, you absolutely can summon Solaire of Astora for the Bell Gargoyles boss fight in Dark Souls! This is often the first opportunity players have to experience the joy of jolly cooperation with the Sunbro himself. His summon sign appears just before the fog gate leading to the rooftop where the gargoyles await. He’s a valuable asset for this encounter, providing much-needed distraction and damage. Let’s dive into the specifics of summoning Solaire and other helpful tips for conquering these winged terrors.
Preparing to Summon Solaire: Key Requirements
Summoning Solaire isn’t as simple as strolling up to the fog gate. There are a few crucial conditions you must meet:
- Humanity: You need to be in human form. This means reversing hollowing at a bonfire. You’ll need at least one Humanity in your inventory to do this.
- Solaire’s Presence: You must have spoken to Solaire previously. He is usually found gazing at the sun just before the bridge leading to the Hellkite Dragon. This conversation triggers his availability as a summon.
- Undisturbed World State: You cannot have already defeated the Bell Gargoyles in your world.
- No Summoning Limit: Ensure you haven’t already summoned two phantoms into your world, as that’s the maximum allowed.
If all these conditions are met, Solaire’s summon sign, a glowing white or gold symbol on the ground, should be visible near the fog gate. Simply interact with it to summon him into your world.
Why Summon Solaire for the Bell Gargoyles?
Solaire offers significant advantages against the Bell Gargoyles:
- Tanking: He can absorb a considerable amount of damage, drawing the gargoyles’ attention away from you. This allows you to heal, buff your weapon, or attack more safely.
- Damage Output: Solaire deals respectable damage, helping to bring the gargoyles down faster.
- Distraction: With two targets to focus on, the gargoyles are less predictable, giving you more opportunities to strike.
- Learning Experience: Observing Solaire’s combat style and positioning can teach you valuable strategies for future boss encounters.
Beyond Solaire: Other Summoning Options
While Solaire is a fantastic option, he isn’t the only choice:
- Lautrec of Carim: If you’ve rescued Lautrec from his cell in Undead Parish and spoken to him at Firelink Shrine before fighting the Gargoyles, his summon sign may also appear. It’s often found on a platform behind the ladders leading up to Solaire’s sign. Summoning both can make the fight significantly easier, but be aware that it does increase the boss’s health.
- Other Players: You can also summon other online players for assistance. Look for white or gold summon signs near the bonfire or the fog gate.
Strategies for the Bell Gargoyles Fight
Whether you summon Solaire or tackle the gargoyles solo, keep these tips in mind:
- Lightning Damage: The gargoyles are highly vulnerable to lightning damage. If you have access to the Gold Pine Resin (found in a chest in Undead Burg), apply it to your weapon for a significant damage boost.
- Weapon Choice: A weapon with a decent range can be helpful for hitting the gargoyles while maintaining a safe distance. The Halberd, conveniently located downstairs from the boss area, is a solid option.
- Shielding: Use a shield with 100% physical damage reduction to block the gargoyles’ attacks effectively. The Heater Shield, Knight’s Shield, and Tower Kite Shield are all readily available.
- Tail Cut: Focus on cutting off the gargoyles’ tails early in the fight. This removes their tail attacks, which can be quite damaging.
- Patience: Don’t get greedy. Wait for openings and strike when the gargoyles are vulnerable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What if I don’t see Solaire’s summon sign?
Several factors can prevent Solaire’s summon sign from appearing:
- You’re not in human form.
- You haven’t spoken to him before the bridge with the Hellkite Dragon.
- You’ve already defeated the Bell Gargoyles.
- You’ve already summoned two other players.
- Try quitting and reloading the game. This can sometimes refresh the summon signs.
2. What level should I be for the Bell Gargoyles?
The average level for this fight is around 20, but don’t worry too much about it. Focus on upgrading your weapon and armor.
3. Are the Bell Gargoyles weak to fire?
While not as effective as lightning, the Bell Gargoyles are still somewhat vulnerable to fire. Pyromancy and fire-infused weapons can deal decent damage.
4. Can you block the Bell Gargoyles’ fire breath?
Yes, you can block the fire breath with a shield that has high fire resistance. However, it’s generally better to dodge the attack, as blocking it will still drain your stamina.
5. What do I do after defeating the Bell Gargoyles?
After ringing the first bell, you’ll receive the Key to the Depths. This key unlocks the path to Lower Undead Burg and the Capra Demon, leading you deeper into the game.
6. Is Solaire the only NPC I can summon in Dark Souls?
No, there are several other NPCs you can summon throughout the game, each with their own requirements and storylines. Solaire is just one of the most popular and helpful options.
7. Can Solaire die during the Bell Gargoyles fight?
Yes, Solaire can die if he takes too much damage. If this happens, he will not be available for summoning in future boss fights unless you start a New Game Plus cycle.
8. How do I save Solaire from going insane later in the game?
To save Solaire, you must prevent the Sunlight Maggot from infecting him in Lost Izalith. This requires opening a shortcut to the area before entering the Demon Ruins. Doing so involves reaching Rank +2 in the Chaos Servant Covenant, or finding an alternative way to open the door.
9. Is Solaire the Nameless King?
No. The theory that Solaire is the Nameless King has been debunked. The Nameless King is revealed to be Gwyn’s firstborn son in Dark Souls 3.
10. What is the Sunlight Maggot?
The Sunlight Maggot is a parasitic creature that infects Solaire if you fail to prevent it. It drives him insane and turns him hostile.
11. Is the Bell Gargoyles fight optional?
While not strictly required to finish the game, defeating the Bell Gargoyles is highly recommended. It unlocks access to essential areas and provides a significant boost to your progression.
12. Can I get Solaire’s armor without killing him?
No, you can only obtain Solaire’s armor by killing him. However, it’s generally considered better to save him from going insane, as he can provide valuable assistance later in the game.
13. What is the best way to farm Humanity?
Humanity can be farmed by defeating rats in the Depths or by killing invading players as a White Phantom.
14. What is the significance of Solaire’s obsession with the sun?
Solaire’s quest is to find his own sun, a source of personal enlightenment and fulfillment. This theme resonates throughout his storyline and adds depth to his character.
15. Where can I learn more about the lore of Dark Souls?
The Dark Souls lore is vast and complex. You can explore various online resources, such as wikis, forums, and YouTube channels, to delve deeper into the game’s rich history and characters. Research by organizations such as the Games Learning Society helps connect the rich worlds of video games to learning and understanding. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about the educational impact of games.
Final Thoughts
Summoning Solaire for the Bell Gargoyles is a fantastic way to experience the cooperative aspects of Dark Souls and gain an advantage in a challenging boss fight. By understanding the requirements, strategies, and lore surrounding Solaire, you can fully appreciate his role in the game and his impact on the Dark Souls community. Remember to always praise the sun!