Does the Shield of Want Work on Your Back? A Deep Dive into Dark Souls 3’s Soul-Boosting Shield
Yes, absolutely! The Shield of Want in Dark Souls 3 does indeed work when it’s on your back. You don’t need to actively hold it in your hand to reap its benefits. Its primary function – providing a +20% bonus to souls gained – is a passive effect that is active as long as the shield is equipped. This makes it an invaluable asset for soul farming runs, allowing you to efficiently amass souls for leveling up, purchasing items, and upgrading your gear. It’s a must-have for any player looking to maximize their soul gains in the treacherous world of Lothric.
Unveiling the Shield of Want: A Comprehensive Guide
The Shield of Want is a unique piece of equipment in Dark Souls 3, not primarily for its defensive capabilities, but rather for its ability to boost the number of souls you acquire from defeating enemies. While it can be used as a regular shield, its real power lies in its passive effect, making it a staple for players focused on progression and character development. Its relatively low weight allows you to equip the shield and not suffer any roll penalties.
The Power of Passive Soul Acquisition
The beauty of the Shield of Want lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to actively use the shield, parry with it, or even have the stats to wield it effectively. Simply equipping it on your back is enough to trigger the 20% soul bonus. This makes it exceptionally convenient, as you can continue using your preferred weapon and fighting style while passively benefiting from the increased soul gain.
Maximizing Your Soul Gain
The Shield of Want’s soul-boosting effect can be further amplified by combining it with other items that increase soul acquisition. The Covetous Silver Serpent Ring is a prime example, as it also provides a percentage increase to souls earned. Stacking these bonuses can significantly accelerate your soul farming, allowing you to level up faster and obtain powerful items more easily. This strategy makes even challenging areas more rewarding, turning formidable foes into opportunities for substantial soul gains.
Acquiring the Coveted Shield
The Shield of Want is found in the Smouldering Lake area after defeating the giant worm. This location is accessible after defeating the Deacons of the Deep and unlocking the Catacombs of Carthus. The Smouldering Lake is a dangerous area filled with fiery demons and hazardous terrain, but the reward of obtaining the Shield of Want is well worth the effort. It is located on a corpse near the boss fight arena.
Shield of Want: A Legacy from Dark Souls II
The Shield of Want originates from Dark Souls II, where it belonged to King Vendrick. While its lore significance might be less pronounced in Dark Souls 3, its function as a soul-boosting item remains consistent, paying homage to its past while serving a crucial purpose in the current game. Its inclusion in Dark Souls 3 serves as a nostalgic nod to fans of the series, while also providing a practical benefit to all players. To learn more about the gaming community visit the GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does the Shield of Want have to be in hand to work?
No, the Shield of Want does not need to be held in your hand to grant the 20% soul bonus. As long as it’s equipped, the passive effect is active.
2. Can I dual wield or two-hand a weapon and still get the Shield of Want bonus?
Yes, you can absolutely dual wield or two-hand a weapon while the Shield of Want is equipped on your back and still receive the 20% soul bonus.
3. Do I need to meet the Strength requirement to gain the soul bonus?
No, you do not need to meet the Strength requirement to gain the 20% soul bonus. The passive effect works regardless of your stats.
4. Where is the Shield of Want located in Dark Souls 3?
The Shield of Want is found in the Smouldering Lake area, after defeating the giant worm.
5. What other items stack with the Shield of Want to increase soul gain?
The Covetous Silver Serpent Ring is the primary item that stacks with the Shield of Want to further increase soul gain.
6. What is the weight of the Shield of Want?
The Shield of Want is relatively light, with a weight of approximately 6.0 units.
7. Is the Shield of Want a good shield for blocking?
While the Shield of Want can be used for blocking, it’s not primarily intended for that purpose. Its defensive stats are average, and its real strength lies in its soul-boosting passive.
8. What does it mean to infuse a shield?
Infusing a shield involves applying gems to alter its stats and add special effects. This can include increasing elemental resistances or adding FP regeneration. However, not all shields can be infused.
9. Does upgrading shields matter in Dark Souls 3?
Yes, upgrading shields can significantly improve their stability, which reduces stamina consumption when blocking. It also slightly improves resistances.
10. How do I put a shield on my back in Dark Souls 3?
If the player chooses to swap between wielding a weapon in one to both hands, the equipped shield will be slung over the character’s back.
11. Which shield is best for parrying in Dark Souls 3?
The buckler, target shield, and small leather shield are generally considered the best shields for parrying due to their faster parry frames.
12. Does the Grass Crest Shield work on my back?
Yes, similar to the Shield of Want, the Grass Crest Shield also works on your back, providing its stamina regeneration bonus passively.
13. What are some of the best shields for blocking in Dark Souls 3?
Some of the best shields for blocking include the Black Knight Shield, the Lothric Knight Shield, and Havel’s Greatshield.
14. Can you parry with any shield in Dark Souls 3?
You can attempt to parry with any shield, but some shields are better suited for it due to their parry frames and animation speed. Small shields like the buckler are generally preferred.
15. What is the “No Skill” Ash of War and how does it affect shields?
The “No Skill” Ash of War removes the default weapon art of a shield. This allows you to use the weapon art of your main weapon when you press the left trigger (or L2), instead of attempting to parry with the shield.