Unleashing the Storm: A Comprehensive Guide to Lightning Weapons in Dark Souls
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.
So, you’re ready to electrify your enemies in Dark Souls? Excellent choice, as few things are as satisfying as watching a Knight crumble under the raw power of a well-wielded lightning weapon. Upgrading them, however, requires understanding a few core mechanics. Let’s dive into the electrifying world of lightning weaponry!
Ascending to the Heavens: Upgrading Your Lightning Arsenal
In Dark Souls, turning a regular weapon into a lightning infused instrument of destruction is a multi-step process. You can’t just slap some lightning on any old blade. Here’s the definitive guide:
-
Start with a Standard +10 Weapon: The foundation for any lightning weapon is a fully upgraded standard weapon at +10. This means you’ll need to farm up those Titanite Shards, Large Titanite Shards, and, most importantly, Titanite Chunks. Upgrade your weapon via Reinforce Weapon at a bonfire or with a blacksmith like Andre of Astora until it reaches +5. You then must acquire the Large Ember and give it to Andre. Use Modify Equipment at Andre to boost +5 to +6. Then use Reinforce Weapon to upgrade from +6 to +10.
-
The Lightning Ascension: Once you have your +10 weapon, it’s time for the main event. Head to Anor Londo and find the Giant Blacksmith. He is the only one who can ascend your +10 weapon into a Lightning +0 weapon.
-
Gathering Materials: The upgrade to Lightning requires Titanite Chunks. Ascending from standard +10 to Lightning +0 requires one Titanite Chunk.
-
Further Enhancement: From Lightning +0, you can upgrade it to Lightning +5. Upgrading Lightning from +0 to +4 requires additional Titanite Chunks. To get from +4 to +5 you will need a Titanite Slab.
-
Souls, of course! Every upgrade requires souls in addition to the Titanite materials. Ensure you have plenty before starting your upgrade process!
That’s the gist of it! But the world of Dark Souls weapon upgrades is deep and full of secrets. Let’s tackle some frequently asked questions to ensure you’re fully prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lightning Weapons
1. What embers are needed for lightning weapons?
You don’t need an ember to create a lightning weapon. You must give the Large Ember to Andre to upgrade a standard weapon to +10, which is required to create a lightning weapon.
2. Does Lightning damage scale with anything?
No, lightning damage does NOT scale with any stat in the original Dark Souls. That’s both its strength and its weakness. It means even characters with minimal Strength, Dexterity, Faith, or Intelligence can wield a lightning weapon effectively. This makes them ideal for builds focused on Vitality and Endurance. In Dark Souls 2, lightning damage scales with Faith.
3. What weapons are good for Lightning infusion?
Any weapon you enjoy using can become a lightning weapon. The best choices are usually weapons with low scaling in Strength and Dexterity, as you won’t be sacrificing much by removing the scaling altogether. The Zweihander and Claymore are popular choices due to their movesets and ease of acquisition.
4. Is it better to make a weapon Lightning or upgrade it to +15?
This depends entirely on your build. If you have high Strength and Dexterity, a +15 weapon will likely do more damage thanks to stat scaling. However, if your stats are low, Lightning becomes the better option. Also, +15 weapons can be further buffed with spells.
5. What is the strongest lightning weapon in Dark Souls?
While damage output varies based on enemy resistances, the Dragonslayer Greataxe is often considered the most powerful lightning weapon due to its high base damage. Note that this is acquired by trading the soul of the Dragonslayer Armor.
6. Where can I farm Titanite Chunks?
Titanite Chunks can be farmed in several locations. The Darkwraiths in New Londo Ruins are a good source, but they can be tough to kill. The Royal Sentinels in Anor Londo also drop them. Additionally, some merchants sell them in limited quantities.
7. Can I reverse a Lightning upgrade?
No, once you’ve ascended a weapon to Lightning, you cannot revert it back to a standard weapon. Choose wisely!
8. Does Lightning damage go through shields?
No, lightning damage is still blocked by shields, but it can be effective against heavily armored enemies, as many armor sets have a weakness to it.
9. What are the weaknesses of Lightning weapons?
Enemies with high lightning resistance, like the Gargoyles or certain bosses, will take significantly reduced damage from lightning weapons. Always have a backup weapon!
10. Can I buff Lightning weapons?
No, Lightning weapons cannot be buffed with spells or resins. The elemental damage is already built-in.
11. How do I get to the Giant Blacksmith in Anor Londo?
After defeating Ornstein and Smough, you’ll gain access to the upper levels of Anor Londo. The Giant Blacksmith is located in a separate tower, accessible via a balcony near the bonfire.
12. Are Lightning weapons good for PvP?
Lightning weapons can be effective in PvP, especially against opponents relying on heavy armor. However, skilled players will often have strategies to counter lightning damage.
13. Is it worth making a Lightning Zweihander?
A Lightning Zweihander is a solid choice for any build that meets the Zweihander’s stat requirements. Its impressive reach and powerful attacks, combined with the consistent lightning damage, make it a formidable weapon.
14. Are Lightning weapons good early game?
Not really. Because you need a weapon +10 you will not be able to acquire one early. The earliest you can ascend to a lightning weapon is Anor Londo.
15. Where can I learn more about Dark Souls weapon mechanics?
The Dark Souls community is incredibly active and informative! Check out the wikis, forums, and YouTube channels dedicated to the game. For insights into how games contribute to learning and education, explore the resources available at the Games Learning Society on GamesLearningSociety.org.
Conclusion: Embrace the Storm!
Creating and upgrading lightning weapons in Dark Souls is a rewarding endeavor. While it requires some investment and knowledge, the raw power and consistent damage output make it well worth the effort. So, gather your Titanite, brave the depths of Lordran, and unleash the fury of the storm upon your enemies!