How Many Portcrystals Can You Have in Dragon’s Dogma?
The world of Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen is vast and often perilous, making efficient travel a crucial element for any Arisen. The game’s fast travel system relies heavily on Portcrystals, magical beacons that allow you to instantly teleport from anywhere in the world using a Ferrystone. So, the burning question is: How many Portcrystals can you have in Dragon’s Dogma?
The answer is simple: You can place a maximum of 10 Portcrystals in the world at any given time. This limit applies across the entire game, including both the base Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen map and the Bitterblack Isle area. Knowing this limit is essential for strategic planning of your fast travel network.
Understanding Portcrystals in Dragon’s Dogma
Portcrystals are not automatically available to the Arisen at the start of the game. They must be acquired, either through completing quests, finding them hidden in the world, or purchasing them from specific vendors (in limited quantities, of course). Once obtained, Portcrystals can be placed almost anywhere in the open world, allowing for custom fast travel points tailored to your preferred routes and frequently visited locations.
While incredibly useful, Portcrystals are not indestructible. They can be destroyed by certain powerful enemies or during scripted events. Therefore, it’s wise to place them in relatively safe locations and be mindful of potential threats in the surrounding area. Replacing a destroyed Portcrystal will count towards your maximum limit of 10.
Strategic Portcrystal Placement
Maximizing the effectiveness of your 10 Portcrystals requires careful consideration of the game world. Key areas to consider include:
- Major Cities and Towns: Gran Soren, Cassardis, and even the Encampment should be high on your list. These are hubs for quests, shops, and pawn recruitment.
- Frequently Visited Quest Locations: If a particular area is the focus of multiple quests, placing a Portcrystal nearby can save you significant travel time.
- Remote or Dangerous Areas: Areas with challenging enemies or difficult terrain benefit greatly from a Portcrystal. Consider locations near dragon fights or deep within forests.
- Bitterblack Isle Entry Point: If you plan on spending a lot of time on Bitterblack Isle, placing a Portcrystal near the docks in Cassardis (where you access the island) can be a lifesaver.
Remember to relocate Portcrystals as your needs change throughout the game. A location that was crucial early on might become less important later, allowing you to move the Portcrystal to a more strategic spot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Portcrystals in Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen to further enhance your understanding.
1. Where can I find my first Portcrystal?
The most common way to acquire your first Portcrystal is by completing the main quest “The Wyrmking’s Ring.”
2. Can I buy Portcrystals?
Yes, but the availability is limited. The Black Cat in Gran Soren sells one Portcrystal after a certain point in the main quest.
3. Are there any missable Portcrystals?
Yes, some quests that reward Portcrystals might be missed if you progress too far in the main storyline without completing them. Be sure to thoroughly explore and complete side quests.
4. Can Pawns carry Portcrystals?
No, Pawns cannot carry Portcrystals. Only the Arisen can hold and place them.
5. What happens if I try to place an 11th Portcrystal?
The game will prevent you from placing it. You’ll need to retrieve one of your existing Portcrystals before placing a new one.
6. Can I pick up a Portcrystal after I’ve placed it?
Yes, you can pick up any Portcrystal you’ve placed at any time, allowing you to relocate it. Simply interact with it.
7. Do Portcrystals work on Bitterblack Isle?
Yes, Portcrystals function normally on Bitterblack Isle, counting towards your total limit of 10.
8. Do Portcrystals remain in New Game Plus?
Yes, any Portcrystals you have in your inventory will carry over to New Game Plus. Their placed locations, however, will not.
9. How do I use a Ferrystone to teleport to a Portcrystal?
Simply use a Ferrystone from your inventory. A map will appear, allowing you to select which Portcrystal to teleport to.
10. Are there any Portcrystals placed by default in the game world?
No, there are no pre-placed Portcrystals. You must acquire and place them yourself.
11. Do enemy attacks destroy Portcrystals frequently?
While it’s possible, it’s not a common occurrence. Powerful enemies or specific scripted events are the main threats to Portcrystals.
12. Is it possible to place Portcrystals inside buildings?
No, you can only place Portcrystals in outdoor locations.
13. Does the location of my Portcrystals affect enemy spawns?
Generally, no. Portcrystal placement doesn’t typically influence enemy spawns.
14. Can I name my Portcrystals?
Unfortunately, no. You cannot name your Portcrystals, so you’ll need to remember their locations based on landmarks.
15. What’s the best strategy for using Portcrystals early in the game?
Focus on placing them near Gran Soren and Cassardis to facilitate quick returns to these important hubs. As you explore further, relocate them to areas with frequent quest activity or challenging enemies.
Conclusion
Understanding the limitations and strategic placement of Portcrystals is essential for efficient travel and exploration in Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen. With a limit of 10 Portcrystals, careful planning and adaptation are key to maximizing their benefits and making your journey as the Arisen much smoother. Experiment with different placements, adapt to your changing needs, and conquer the vast world of Gransys with ease!