Vanquishing the Spectral Threat: A Comprehensive Guide to Eliminating Ghosts in New Londo Ruins

The New Londo Ruins in Dark Souls present a unique and terrifying challenge: ghosts. These ethereal enemies are immune to conventional weaponry, making this early-game zone a nightmare for unprepared players. However, fear not, Ashen One! There are specific methods and strategies to banish these specters back to the abyss. The primary ways to get rid of ghosts in New Londo Ruins involve either applying a temporary “curse” effect to yourself, wielding a specific cursed weapon, or simply making a desperate run for it. Let’s delve into each method in detail, ensuring you emerge victorious from this haunted locale.

Methods for Killing Ghosts in New Londo

Transient Curses: Your Early-Game Savior

The most accessible method early in the game is using a Transient Curse. These consumable items temporarily grant you the ability to damage ghosts.

• Acquiring Transient Curses: You can find a few of these near the entrance to New Londo, hidden among the rubble. Be thorough in your exploration! If that isn’t enough, you can purchase them from Ingward, the keykeeper who resides at the top of the tower in New Londo, after you have obtained the Lordvessel; he will give you the Key to the Seal. Also, Oswald of Carim, who is the Pardoner in the Undead Parish can also provide these at a price.

• Farming Transient Curses: If you find yourself running low, you can farm the ghosts themselves for Transient Curses or the Jagged Ghost Blade (more on that later). Equip the Gold Serpent Ring to increase your item discovery rate for better results.

Cursed Weapons: A Permanent Solution

Certain weapons possess the inherent ability to damage ghosts without the need for Transient Curses. These are powerful and desirable, offering a permanent solution to the ghostly menace.

• Jagged Ghost Blade: This weapon, dropped by the ghosts in New Londo, is arguably the easiest cursed weapon to obtain early on. While it has relatively low damage, its curse effect makes it invaluable.

• Ghost Blade: A superior version of the Jagged Ghost Blade.

• Cursed Greatsword of Artorias: Requires a specific weapon upgrade path and high stats. Not an early-game option, but a powerful tool once acquired.

• Artorias’ Greatsword: Requires a specific weapon upgrade path and high stats. Not an early-game option, but a powerful tool once acquired.

The Desperate Dash: Running Through New Londo

If you find yourself without Transient Curses or a suitable weapon, a risky but viable strategy is to run through the area, avoiding the ghosts as much as possible. This is primarily useful to reach Ingward quickly, as he sells Transient Curses and holds the key to drain the water. Be warned: this approach requires precise timing and a good understanding of the level layout.

Navigating New Londo: Tips and Strategies

• Draining the Water: After obtaining the Key to the Seal from Ingward, use it to drain the water in New Londo. This changes the level dramatically, opening new areas, and preventing the ghosts from spawning in the lower areas.

• Proceed with Caution: Even with curses or appropriate weaponry, the ghosts of New Londo can be deadly. Their attacks can easily stagger you, leaving you vulnerable to follow-up strikes.

• Location Matters: The beginning of New Londo is the most dangerous. As you progress and drain the water, the ghost encounters become more manageable.

FAQ: Conquering the Ghosts of New Londo

1. Can I use Divine weapons to kill ghosts in Dark Souls?

No, divine weapons do not affect ghosts. Divine weapons are effective against skeletons in the Catacombs, preventing them from reanimating. You need either a Transient Curse or a cursed weapon to damage ghosts.

2. Where can I find Transient Curses early in New Londo?

There are two Transient Curses located relatively close to the entrance of New Londo. Search thoroughly around the crumbling buildings and ruined archways; be mindful of the ghosts lurking nearby while doing so.

3. What is the best weapon to use against ghosts in New Londo?

Early on, the Jagged Ghost Blade, dropped by the ghosts themselves, is the best option. Later in the game, the Cursed Greatsword of Artorias provides superior damage output and range.

4. How do I drain the water in New Londo Ruins?

To drain the water, you must obtain the Key to the Seal from Ingward who lives on top of the tower. He will grant you the Key to the Seal after you have placed the Lordvessel.

5. What level should I be before attempting New Londo Ruins?

The recommended level for New Londo Ruins is level 50-70. Going in at a lower level can make the area incredibly challenging.

6. Are there any bonfires in New Londo Ruins?

Unfortunately, there are no bonfires within the New Londo Ruins themselves. Plan your excursions carefully and consider using homeward bones to return to a bonfire after defeating the Four Kings.

7. Can I summon other players for help in New Londo Ruins?

Yes, but only after you have drained the water. Summoning before draining the water can be difficult and may not be as effective.

8. Is it possible to skip New Londo Ruins entirely?

Yes, it is possible, through a technique known as the Seal Skip. This advanced maneuver uses a Save & Quit and Fall Control to bypass obtaining the Key to the Seal. However, this requires advanced knowledge and precise execution.

9. How do I get the Jagged Ghost Blade?

The Jagged Ghost Blade is a rare drop from the ghosts in New Londo Ruins. Increase your item discovery rate using the Gold Serpent Ring to improve your chances.

10. What is the point of draining the water in New Londo Ruins?

Draining the water is essential to access the boss fight against the Four Kings. It also prevents ghosts from spawning in the lower levels and opens up new paths and areas to explore.

11. Can I curse myself using Basilisks to fight ghosts?

Yes, you can technically curse yourself by getting hit by the Basilisks in The Depths, but this is a highly risky and impractical method. It’s far better to simply buy and use Transient Curses.

12. What are the Four Kings weak to?

The Four Kings are weakest to lightning damage, with fire being a close second. Their attacks do less damage up close, so aggressive melee combat is often the best strategy.

13. What ring do I need to defeat the Four Kings?

You need the Covenant of Artorias, which you obtain by defeating Sif, the Great Grey Wolf. This ring allows you to enter the Abyss, where the Four Kings reside.

14. How do I find Ingward in New Londo Ruins?

Ingward resides at the top of the highest tower, usually surrounded by ghosts. From the entrance, navigate to the right and up a series of stairs and platforms to reach his location.

15. Besides ghosts, what other dangers are in New Londo Ruins?

In addition to ghosts, New Londo is home to Darkwraiths, powerful humanoid enemies, and later, you will face the challenge of the Four Kings boss fight. Beware the descent into the Abyss!

New Londo Ruins is a challenging but rewarding area in Dark Souls. By understanding how to deal with the ghosts and navigating the flooded ruins, you can conquer this zone and progress further in your journey. Remember to always proceed with caution, plan your attacks, and don’t be afraid to retreat and regroup when necessary. Good luck, and may the flames guide thee! Explore the fascinating intersection of gaming and learning at the Games Learning Society, offering valuable insights into the educational potential of games. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.