How to Obtain the Black Blade in Dark Souls 3

The term “Black Blade” in the context of Dark Souls 3 can be a bit confusing because there isn’t a single weapon officially named “Black Blade.” However, players often refer to several dark-themed or black-colored weapons as such. This article will clarify how to obtain some of the most popular “Black Blade” candidates in Dark Souls 3, each with its unique acquisition method and playstyle. We’ll cover the Onyx Blade, the Dark Blade miracle, and discuss weapons often mistaken for a ‘black blade’ due to their appearance or associated lore.

The Onyx Blade: A Pyromancer’s Dream

The most likely candidate for the “Black Blade” in Dark Souls 3 is the Onyx Blade. This greatsword is not directly found but is acquired by defeating Sir Vilhelm, an NPC invader.

Acquiring the Onyx Blade

1. Progress through the Ashes of Ariandel DLC: The Onyx Blade is found within the Ashes of Ariandel DLC. You must first gain access to the DLC, either through the Firelink Shrine bonfire or by speaking to the NPC in the Cleansing Chapel.

2. Reach the Corvian Settlement: Make your way through the Corvian Settlement until you reach the large library building. This is past the area with the Evangelists and the hordes of Corvians.

3. Defeat Sir Vilhelm: After clearing the Corvian Settlement, Sir Vilhelm will invade your world inside the large library building. He is a formidable opponent wielding his own weapon and using Dark magic. Prepare for a challenging fight, considering he has heavy armor and hits fairly hard.

4. Claim Your Prize: Upon defeating Sir Vilhelm, he will drop the Onyx Blade.

Understanding the Onyx Blade

The Onyx Blade is unique as it scales with both Strength and Intelligence/Faith. It deals physical and dark damage. Its weapon art, “Elfriede’s Blackflame,” imbues the blade with dark energy, increasing its dark damage and giving it a unique visual effect.

The Dark Blade Miracle

Another aspect of the “Black Blade” query pertains to the Dark Blade miracle, not a physical weapon. This miracle imbues your weapon with Dark damage.

Acquiring the Dark Blade Miracle

1. Obtain the Londor Braille Divine Tome: This tome is found in the Catacombs of Carthus. Specifically, it is dropped by a Mimic located on an upper ledge near the Demon and the entrance to the Smouldering Lake. Proceed through the Catacombs until you reach the area before the Smouldering Lake. Look for a ledge with a single Mimic enemy. Defeat the Mimic to obtain the Londor Braille Divine Tome.

2. Give the Tome to Irina of Carim or Karla: Once you have the Londor Braille Divine Tome, you must give it to either Irina of Carim or Karla. Irina can be found in a cell near the Undead Settlement, and Karla is imprisoned in Irithyll Dungeon.

3. Purchase Dark Blade: After giving either NPC the tome, you can purchase the Dark Blade miracle from them for 10,000 souls. Note that if Irina is corrupted and becomes the Fire Keeper, you may have to find another way.

Using the Dark Blade Miracle

The Dark Blade miracle requires 12 Faith and imbues your right-hand weapon with Dark damage for a duration. It is an excellent choice for Faith builds looking to add a dark damage element to their attacks.

Other Potential “Black Blades”

While the Onyx Blade and the Dark Blade miracle are the most likely answers, other dark-themed weapons are worth considering.

• Black Knight Weapons: These weapons, such as the Black Knight Sword, Black Knight Halberd, and Black Knight Greatsword, are not truly “black blades” in color, but they are associated with dark lore and often appear dark in certain lighting conditions. They are obtained by defeating Black Knight enemies throughout the game.
• Dark Sword: While not explicitly black, the Dark Sword is a powerful straight sword that can be infused with dark gems to increase its dark damage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to obtaining and using “Black Blades” and related items in Dark Souls 3:

1. Where do I find Irina of Carim to give her the Londor Braille Divine Tome?

   Irina of Carim is located in a cell in the Undead Settlement. You need the Grave Key, purchased from the Shrine Handmaid in Firelink Shrine, to unlock the door to the sewer passage that leads to her cell.

2. Where is Karla located to give her the Londor Braille Divine Tome?

   Karla is found in a cell in the Irithyll Dungeon. You need the Jailer’s Key Ring, found in the Profaned Capital, to unlock her cell.

3. What stats do I need to effectively use the Onyx Blade?

   The Onyx Blade scales with Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, and Faith. A balanced build with around 30-40 in each of these stats will maximize its potential.

4. Does the Onyx Blade deal only dark damage?

   No, the Onyx Blade deals both physical and dark damage.

5. How long does the Elfriede’s Blackflame weapon art last?

   The Elfriede’s Blackflame weapon art lasts for about 45 seconds.

6. Is the Onyx Blade better than other greatswords?

   The Onyx Blade is situational. Its split damage can be less effective against enemies with high resistance to both physical and dark damage. However, its unique weapon art and scaling make it a viable choice for specific builds.

7. Can I buff the Onyx Blade with resins or other spells?

   No, the Onyx Blade cannot be buffed with resins or other spells. It can only be buffed with its own weapon art.

8. Is the Dark Blade miracle effective in PvP?

   The Dark Blade miracle can be effective in PvP, especially against opponents with low Dark resistance. However, it is telegraphed and can be easily dodged.

9. What is the casting speed of the Dark Blade miracle?

   The casting speed of the Dark Blade miracle is relatively slow. Increasing your Dexterity or using the Sage Ring can help improve the casting speed.

10. Can I use the Dark Blade miracle on any weapon?

    You can use the Dark Blade miracle on any infusable weapon.

11. Are Black Knight weapons considered “Black Blades”?

    While Black Knight weapons are not explicitly “Black Blades,” they are associated with dark lore and have a dark appearance. They are powerful choices for Strength builds.

12. Where do I find Black Knight weapons?

    Black Knight weapons are dropped by Black Knight enemies throughout the game. They can be found in areas such as the Catacombs of Carthus, Smouldering Lake, and the Kiln of the First Flame.

13. How does the Dark Sword compare to other straight swords?

    The Dark Sword is a powerful straight sword with good damage and range. However, it has been nerfed in previous patches, and other straight swords like the Lothric Knight Sword are now considered more versatile.

14. Can I infuse the Dark Sword with dark gems?

    Yes, the Dark Sword can be infused with dark gems to increase its dark damage scaling.

15. What are the best builds for using “Black Blade” weapons or spells?

    • Onyx Blade: A hybrid build with equal investments in Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, and Faith.
    • Dark Blade Miracle: A Faith build with high Faith and attunement.
    • Black Knight Weapons: Primarily Strength builds with some investment in Dexterity.

In conclusion, while there isn’t a single weapon called the “Black Blade” in Dark Souls 3, the Onyx Blade and the Dark Blade miracle fit the description most closely. Understanding how to acquire and effectively use these items can significantly enhance your gameplay experience. For more insights into game design and learning, be sure to check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.