How to Access the Crown of the Old Iron King DLC in Dark Souls 2: 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.
The Crown of the Old Iron King DLC is the second installment in the Lost Crowns trilogy for Dark Souls 2. It introduces players to the challenging and vertically complex Brume Tower, packed with new enemies, intricate level design, and rewarding loot. However, accessing this content requires a specific set of steps and prerequisites. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to begin your adventure in Brume Tower.
The direct answer to how to access the Crown of the Old Iron King DLC is as follows: You must defeat the Old Iron King boss in Iron Keep, then proceed through the Primal Bonfire just past him. Interact with the altar behind the bonfire to be transported to the beginning of the DLC area. Upon loading, the Heavy Iron Key will be automatically added to your inventory, which allows you to enter Brume Tower.
Detailed Access Steps
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the process to ensure you don’t miss a step:
- Defeat the Old Iron King: Your first hurdle is overcoming the formidable Old Iron King, located at the end of Iron Keep. This fiery lord can be a significant challenge, but victory is essential to progressing to the DLC. Make sure you are adequately leveled and prepared for the fight before tackling him.
- Locate the Primal Bonfire: After defeating the Old Iron King, proceed further into the room. You will find a Primal Bonfire at the back of the chamber. This bonfire serves as a crucial point for teleporting to the DLC.
- Use the Altar: Behind the Primal Bonfire is an altar. Interact with this altar to be warped to the starting location of the Crown of the Old Iron King DLC.
- Receive the Heavy Iron Key: After you load into the new area, the Heavy Iron Key will be automatically added to your inventory. This key is essential for opening the door to Brume Tower.
- Enter Brume Tower: Now that you have the key, you can proceed into Brume Tower. It’s recommended to be well-equipped and at a suitable level, as the challenges within are quite intense.
Prerequisite: Purchasing the DLC
It is crucial to remember that you must own the DLC to be able to access this area. The Crown of the Old Iron King DLC is a separate purchase from the base game. If you do not own it, even if you follow all the steps, you will not gain access.
The Significance of the Primal Bonfires
The Primal Bonfires are essential for accessing all three DLC areas in Dark Souls 2. Each DLC has its own Primal Bonfire, and accessing them is usually tied to a specific progression point within the base game. The Iron Keep’s Primal Bonfire is specifically linked to the Crown of the Old Iron King.
Preparing for Brume Tower
Before venturing into Brume Tower, it’s highly recommended that you prepare thoroughly. This DLC features challenging enemies, intricate level designs, and a significant increase in difficulty compared to the base game. Consider these points:
- Level: It is recommended that you are at a relatively high level before entering. If you could complete the base game, you should be adequately leveled for this area, though some players opt to be a bit higher.
- Gear: Ensure you have upgraded weapons, armor, and shields. Brume Tower demands high defenses and powerful offense.
- Spells and Items: Carry a good variety of spells and utility items. Healing items are essential, and spells can give you an edge in some situations.
- Patience: Brume Tower requires patience and careful navigation. There are a lot of traps, ambushes, and tough enemies. Taking your time can save you from a lot of frustration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide even more clarity and guidance about accessing and experiencing the Crown of the Old Iron King DLC:
Where is the Heavy Iron Key found?
The Heavy Iron Key is not found as a physical item you have to locate. It is automatically added to your inventory when you teleport to the Brume Tower area after using the altar behind the Primal Bonfire in Iron Keep.
What does the Heavy Iron Key unlock?
The Heavy Iron Key unlocks the main door leading into Brume Tower at the beginning of the DLC area.
How do I access other DLC areas in Dark Souls 2?
The shrines that teleport you to the DLC areas are located at the Black Gulch Primal Bonfire (for Crown of the Sunken King), Iron Keep Primal Bonfire (for Crown of the Old Iron King), and the Shrine of Winter (for Crown of the Ivory King). The recommended order to play them is Sunken, Old Iron, then Ivory.
How many DLCs does Dark Souls 2 have?
Dark Souls 2 has three DLCs: Crown of the Sunken King, Crown of the Old Iron King, and Crown of the Ivory King. These are collectively referred to as the Lost Crowns trilogy.
What are the dates of the DLC releases?
Crown of the Sunken King was released in July 2014, Crown of the Old Iron King on August 26, 2014, and Crown of the Ivory King in September 2014.
What does the Crown of the Old Iron King do?
The Crown of the Old Iron King has a unique effect: it restores some of your spell casts every two minutes. However, the effect is slightly weaker than using an amber herb. The timer resets when the crown is removed or when you go through a loading screen.
Is the Smelter Demon optional in Iron Keep?
Yes, the Smelter Demon in Iron Keep is an optional boss fight.
What are some boss weaknesses in the Crown of the Old Iron King DLC?
Fume Knight is slightly more vulnerable to Magic damage. Elana, the Squalid Queen, is weak to Lightning damage.
What level should I be for the Old Iron King DLC?
The DLC is intended to be an endgame activity. If you were able to complete the base game, you should be adequately leveled for the content. A level of around 100-150 will be fine.
What is after the Old Iron King boss?
After defeating the Old Iron King, you will find a Primal Bonfire and the altar that transports you to the DLC area.
How do I get to the DLC area in Dark Souls 1?
Accessing the Artorias of the Abyss DLC in Dark Souls 1 involves clearing the Hydra from the Darkroot Basin, rescuing Dusk of Oolacile, obtaining the Lordvessel, and then defeating a lone Crystal Golem in The Duke’s Archives to obtain the Broken Pendant.
Where do I find the Frozen Flower in Dark Souls 2?
The Frozen Flower is a key item that is added to your inventory the first time you load the game after purchasing the Crown of the Ivory King DLC.
Who is the final boss in the Crown of the Sunken King DLC?
The final boss in the Crown of the Sunken King DLC is Sinh, the Slumbering Dragon.
How do I join the Knights of Blue covenant?
To join the Knights of Blue covenant, you must receive at least one Token of Fidelity from a successful co-op boss fight. After that, speak to Blue Sentinel Targray, who can be found after defeating the Old Dragonslayer.
Is there a particular order I should play the DLCs?
While you can play the DLCs in any order, the generally recommended order is Crown of the Sunken King, followed by Crown of the Old Iron King, and then Crown of the Ivory King. This order allows for a smoother difficulty progression and better story sequencing.
By following these steps and utilizing the information provided in this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on the challenging but rewarding journey through the Crown of the Old Iron King DLC in Dark Souls 2. Good luck, and may the flames guide you!