Navigating the Covenants of Dark Souls 2: Finding the Best Fit for Your Playstyle
The world of Dark Souls 2 is vast, unforgiving, and filled with secrets. Among these secrets are the various Covenants, factions that offer unique benefits, challenges, and rewards. There isn’t a single “best” Covenant for everyone; the ideal choice depends entirely on your playstyle, your goals within the game, and what you hope to achieve. However, if I had to pick a single covenant that provides a great experience for all players, I would suggest Way of Blue covenant. The ease of joining, combined with the support that it gives is highly recommended.
Understanding the Core Covenants of Drangleic
Before diving into specific recommendations, let’s briefly outline the major Covenants in Dark Souls 2:
- Way of Blue: Primarily for players new to the game or those who struggle with invasions. Summons Blue Sentinels or Blades of the Darkmoon to aid you when invaded.
- Blue Sentinels: Dedicated to protecting members of the Way of Blue from invaders. Players are summoned to assist those in need.
- Brotherhood of Blood: A PvP-focused Covenant centered around duels and invading other players.
- Company of Champions: A hardcore PvE Covenant that significantly increases the difficulty of the game. Enemies are tougher, but rewards are greater.
- Heirs of the Sun: A co-op Covenant focused on helping other players defeat bosses. Rewards include Sunlight Medals for powerful miracles.
- Pilgrims of Dark: A challenging PvE Covenant that unlocks access to the Dark Chasm of Old, a series of difficult areas filled with powerful enemies and unique rewards.
- Bell Keepers: Protect the Belltowers of Luna and Sol. Members invade players who enter these areas.
- Rat King Covenant: Focused on luring players into areas filled with traps and enemies.
- Dragon Remnants: A PvP Covenant centered around honorable duels using Dragon Signs.
Covenant Selection: Considering Your Goals
New Players: Way of Blue and Heirs of the Sun
For newcomers to Dark Souls 2, the Way of Blue is an excellent starting point. It provides a safety net against invasions, summoning helpful phantoms to your aid. This allows you to learn the game’s mechanics and explore the world without constant fear of being ganked.
If you enjoy cooperative play, the Heirs of the Sun is another fantastic option. Helping other players overcome challenging bosses is a rewarding experience, and the Sunlight Medals you earn can be used to acquire powerful miracles.
PvP Enthusiasts: Brotherhood of Blood and Dragon Remnants
For players who thrive in PvP combat, the Brotherhood of Blood and Dragon Remnants Covenants offer distinct experiences. The Brotherhood of Blood focuses on both duels and invasions, allowing you to test your skills against a variety of opponents. However, there is an Arena that the players can use.
Dragon Remnants, on the other hand, emphasize honorable duels. Placing your Dragon Sign allows other players to summon you for a one-on-one fight. This Covenant is perfect for honing your skills and earning respect within the PvP community.
PvE Challengers: Company of Champions and Pilgrims of Dark
If you’re seeking a greater challenge in PvE, the Company of Champions Covenant is the way to go. Joining this Covenant significantly increases the difficulty of the game, making enemies more aggressive and resistant to damage. While this can be incredibly challenging, it also provides a more rewarding sense of accomplishment.
The Pilgrims of Dark Covenant offers a unique PvE experience. By joining, you gain access to the Dark Chasm of Old, a series of challenging areas filled with powerful enemies and unique rewards. This Covenant is perfect for players who enjoy exploring dark and dangerous environments.
Defenders: Blue Sentinels and Bell Keepers
If you enjoy protecting others, the Blue Sentinels offer a chance to help Way of Blue members. This provides fast-paced and satisfying multiplayer moments as you defend vulnerable players from invaders.
The Bell Keepers, on the other hand, defend the Belltowers through invasions. You will automatically be summoned to defend the area from trespassers.
Covenants and Story
It’s crucial to remember that the Covenants often offer a deeper dive into the lore of Dark Souls 2. Some Covenants will introduce you to new characters, reveal secrets about the world, and even alter your perception of the game’s events.
The Covenant you choose can dramatically shape your experience and influence how you interact with the world of Drangleic.
The Importance of Games Learning Society
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FAQs About Covenants in Dark Souls 2
1. Can I join multiple Covenants at the same time?
No, you can only be a member of one Covenant at a time. Joining a new Covenant will automatically overwrite your previous allegiance.
2. Is there a penalty for leaving a Covenant?
In Dark Souls 2, there is no penalty for leaving a Covenant. You can freely switch between Covenants without any negative consequences.
3. Do I lose progress in a Covenant if I leave?
No, you do not lose any progress in a Covenant when you leave. Your rank and any earned rewards will be retained, allowing you to rejoin the Covenant later without starting from scratch.
4. How do I rank up in a Covenant?
Ranking up in a Covenant typically involves completing specific tasks or fulfilling certain requirements, such as defeating invaders, offering specific items, or winning duels. The specific requirements vary depending on the Covenant.
5. What are the rewards for ranking up in Covenants?
Rewards for ranking up in Covenants can include unique weapons, armor, spells, items, and even access to new areas or NPCs.
6. Which Covenant is the easiest to rank up in?
The Way of Blue is often considered the easiest Covenant to rank up in, as you simply need to be invaded and have Blue Sentinels or Blades of the Darkmoon defeat the invader.
7. Which Covenant is the most difficult to rank up in?
Some Covenants, such as the Brotherhood of Blood and Pilgrims of Dark, can be more challenging to rank up in due to the skill required for PvP or the difficulty of the areas you need to complete.
8. Can I complete the game without joining a Covenant?
Yes, you can absolutely complete Dark Souls 2 without joining any Covenants. Covenants are entirely optional and offer additional content and benefits but are not required to beat the game.
9. Do Covenants affect the game’s ending?
No, Covenants do not affect the ending of Dark Souls 2. The ending you receive is determined by your actions and choices during the main story quest.
10. Can I rejoin a Covenant after betraying it?
Yes, you can rejoin a Covenant after betraying it. In some cases, you may need to absolve your sins with Cromwell the Pardoner before being allowed to rejoin.
11. What is the purpose of the Blue Sentinels Covenant?
The Blue Sentinels Covenant is dedicated to protecting members of the Way of Blue from invaders. When a Way of Blue member is invaded, Blue Sentinels are automatically summoned to assist them.
12. What is the purpose of the Company of Champions Covenant?
The Company of Champions Covenant is for players seeking a greater challenge in PvE. Joining this Covenant significantly increases the difficulty of the game, making enemies more aggressive and resistant to damage.
13. Where can I find the Heirs of the Sun Covenant?
You can join the Heirs of the Sun Covenant by praying at the Altar of Sunlight, which is located in Harvest Valley just before the entrance to Earthen Peak.
14. How do I access the Dark Chasm of Old as a member of the Pilgrims of Dark Covenant?
As a member of the Pilgrims of Dark Covenant, you can access the Dark Chasm of Old by finding and lighting three torches in specific locations throughout the game.
15. What are the benefits of joining the Rat King Covenant?
Joining the Rat King Covenant will make enemies in the areas of Grave of Saints and Doors of Pharros passive to the player. You can also use Pharros Lockstones to open doors that release additional enemies to help you fight off invaders.
Choosing the right Covenant in Dark Souls 2 can significantly enhance your gameplay experience. By understanding the different Covenants and considering your own playstyle and goals, you can find the perfect fit for your journey through Drangleic.