Should I Beat DLC Before Gwyn in Dark Souls? A Definitive Guide
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The burning question that plagues many a Chosen Undead: Should you tackle the DLC before facing Gwyn, Lord of Cinder? The short answer is a resounding YES. In Dark Souls, experiencing the Artorias of the Abyss DLC before facing Gwyn is highly recommended for a more enriching and complete narrative experience. It provides valuable lore, powerful gear, and a greater sense of accomplishment before concluding the main storyline.
Why Tackle the DLC Before Gwyn?
There are several compelling reasons to explore the Artorias of the Abyss DLC before challenging Gwyn:
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Narrative Context: The DLC delves deep into the lore of the Four Knights of Gwyn, particularly Artorias the Abysswalker. Understanding his story adds significant weight to the events of the main game and provides a tragic context for the world’s decline. Fighting Gwyn without this knowledge diminishes the impact of his character and the overall narrative.
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Increased Difficulty: The DLC presents a substantial difficulty spike compared to many areas in the base game. Completing it before Gwyn allows you to hone your skills, acquire better gear, and level up sufficiently to make the final boss fight more manageable. Think of it as a proving ground for your Chosen Undead.
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Powerful Gear and Spells: The Artorias of the Abyss DLC offers some of the most powerful weapons, armor, and spells in the game. These can significantly improve your character’s capabilities and provide a distinct advantage in the final battle against Gwyn. Acquiring this gear before the endgame provides a more diverse and strategic approach to combat.
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Character Progression: The souls gained from defeating the DLC bosses and enemies can be used to further level up your character, allowing you to optimize your stats and create a more specialized build. This added strength can be crucial for overcoming the challenges that lie ahead, especially if you’re aiming for a specific ending or playstyle.
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Experiencing the Full Story: Ultimately, playing the DLC before Gwyn ensures that you experience the complete and intended narrative arc of Dark Souls. It provides closure to certain character storylines and a deeper understanding of the world’s history. It would be a disservice to yourself to miss out on this crucial piece of the puzzle.
When Exactly Should I Tackle the DLC?
Timing is everything. Ideally, you should enter the Artorias of the Abyss DLC after acquiring the Lordvessel but before placing the Lord Souls and facing Gwyn. A good level range is between level 60 and 80. This ensures you’re adequately equipped to handle the DLC’s challenges without being overly overpowered.
Preparing for the DLC
Before venturing into Oolacile, consider the following:
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Weapon Upgrades: Upgrade your primary weapon to at least +10, preferably to +15 if possible. This will significantly increase your damage output against the DLC’s tougher enemies.
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Armor Optimization: Choose armor that provides a balance of defense and mobility. Consider armor with high poise to prevent staggering and resistance to various damage types.
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Estus Flasks: Maximize your Estus Flasks by collecting Fire Keeper Souls and upgrading them at the Firelink Shrine bonfire. Having a substantial number of Estus Flasks will be essential for survival.
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Spell Preparation: If you’re playing a magic-based character, stock up on powerful spells and upgrade your catalyst. The DLC enemies can be particularly resistant to certain types of magic, so diversify your spell selection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens if I beat Gwyn before doing the DLC?
If you defeat Gwyn before completing the DLC, the game will automatically start New Game Plus (NG+). This means you’ll have to progress through the game again to access the DLC. While you can still experience the DLC in NG+, the enemies will be significantly stronger, making it a much greater challenge.
2. Is the DLC significantly harder than the base game?
Yes, the Artorias of the Abyss DLC is generally considered to be more difficult than most areas in the base game. The enemies are tougher, the bosses are more challenging, and the overall level design is more intricate.
3. What is the recommended level for the DLC?
A level range of 60-80 is generally recommended for the DLC. However, skilled players may be able to complete it at a lower level, while less experienced players may prefer to be slightly higher.
4. Which bosses should I look out for in the DLC?
The DLC features several challenging bosses, including Artorias the Abysswalker, Manus, Father of the Abyss, and Black Dragon Kalameet. Each boss has unique attack patterns and weaknesses, so be prepared to adapt your strategy accordingly.
5. What are some good weapons to use in the DLC?
Many weapons are effective in the DLC, but some stand out due to their damage output, move sets, and scaling. Popular choices include the Black Knight Halberd, the Claymore, the Great Scythe, and various upgraded elemental weapons.
6. Can I summon help for the DLC bosses?
Yes, you can summon other players to assist you with the DLC bosses. This can be a great way to overcome the challenges, especially if you’re struggling with a particular boss.
7. Does the DLC affect the ending of the game?
No, the DLC does not directly affect the ending of the game. However, the knowledge and experience gained from the DLC can inform your decision about which ending to choose.
8. What is the lore behind Artorias the Abysswalker?
Artorias was one of the Four Knights of Gwyn, known for his unwavering dedication to fighting the dark and protecting humanity. His story is tragic, as he was ultimately corrupted by the Abyss, forcing him to be defeated by the player character.
9. How do I access the Artorias of the Abyss DLC?
To access the DLC, you must first defeat the Hydra in Darkroot Basin and then rescue Dusk of Oolacile. After that, defeat the Golem in the Duke’s Archives, and return to Darkroot Basin to find a portal leading to Oolacile.
10. Is it possible to complete the DLC on my first playthrough?
Yes, it is possible to complete the DLC on your first playthrough. However, it is recommended to be adequately leveled and equipped before venturing into Oolacile.
11. Are there any hidden areas in the DLC?
Yes, the DLC contains several hidden areas and secrets. Exploring thoroughly will reward you with valuable items, weapons, and insights into the lore.
12. Is the DLC worth playing?
Absolutely. The Artorias of the Abyss DLC is a fantastic addition to Dark Souls, offering new areas to explore, challenging bosses to defeat, and a deeper understanding of the game’s lore. It is a must-play for any fan of the series.
13. What are some good strategies for fighting Gwyn?
Gwyn is known for his aggressive and relentless attacks. Parrying his attacks is a highly effective strategy, but can be risky. Alternatively, using a high-stability shield and circling him can create openings for attacks. A lightning spear can also be quite effective.
14. What if I am really struggling with the DLC bosses?
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different weapons, armor, and strategies. Watch videos of other players defeating the bosses to learn their attack patterns and weaknesses. And remember, summoning help from other players can make a significant difference.
15. Where can I learn more about the design and learning principles behind Dark Souls?
Explore resources from organizations such as the Games Learning Society, which promotes the use of games and game-based learning in education and research. You can find more information at their website: GamesLearningSociety.org.
In conclusion, while the decision ultimately rests with you, tackling the Artorias of the Abyss DLC before facing Gwyn in Dark Souls is a strategically sound and narratively rewarding choice. Prepare yourself, embrace the challenge, and experience the complete story of the Chosen Undead. Good luck, and don’t you dare go hollow!