The Definitive Guide to the Best Two-Handed Weapon in Dark Souls 3

So, you’re plunging into the brutal world of Dark Souls 3 and you’ve decided to go big – two-handed weapon big. Excellent choice, Ashen One! There’s a unique satisfaction in pancaking enemies with a colossal blade or a bone-crushing hammer. But with so many options, finding the best can be a daunting task. Let’s cut through the confusion.

The “best” two-handed weapon is subjective and depends heavily on your playstyle, build, and progression in the game. However, if we’re looking for a weapon that combines raw power, versatile moveset, and relatively early availability, the Greatsword stands out as an exceptional choice. While other weapons might surpass it in specific categories like sheer damage output, the Greatsword’s balanced nature makes it a consistently reliable and effective option for the entire game.

Why the Greatsword Reigns Supreme

While the term “Greatsword” might seem generic, we’re specifically referring to the Greatsword weapon found in the Undead Settlement. It’s a classic for a reason and here’s why:

• Excellent Scaling: The Greatsword scales well with Strength (C) and Dexterity (D). This allows you to create a quality build, balancing both stats for maximum damage. A heavy infusion turns this weapon into a Strength monster.
• Versatile Moveset: The Greatsword boasts a diverse moveset, including sweeping attacks for crowd control and thrusting attacks for precision strikes. Its rolling attack is particularly effective for spacing and punishing enemies.
• Early Availability: You can acquire the Greatsword relatively early in the game, allowing you to upgrade it and familiarize yourself with its moveset before facing tougher challenges.
• Relatively Low Stat Requirements: It requires 28 Strength and 10 Dexterity to wield effectively, making it accessible to a wide range of builds.

Honorable Mentions: Other Powerful Two-Handed Contenders

While the Greatsword offers a fantastic overall experience, several other two-handed weapons excel in specific areas:

• For Pure Strength Builds: The Great Club and Large Club are incredible choices. They offer massive damage and stagger potential, making them ideal for crushing enemies and bosses alike. Their simplicity is their strength.
• For Raw Damage Output: Ledo’s Great Hammer boasts the highest raw damage in the game, but its high stat requirements and slow swing speed make it less versatile than the Greatsword. This weapon is best reserved for PvP scenarios where one hit can change the match.
• For Unique Movesets: The Fume Ultra Greatsword and the Black Knight Greatsword both offer unique and powerful movesets. The Fume Ultra Greatsword is renowned for its hyper armor.
• For Hybrid Builds: The Hollowslayer Greatsword and Wolf Knight’s Greatsword have special movesets and appeal to quality builds.

Ultimately, the best two-handed weapon for you depends on your individual preferences and playstyle. Experiment with different options to find the weapon that feels most comfortable and effective in your hands.

Tips for Mastering Two-Handed Combat

• Learn Weapon Arts: Each weapon has a unique Weapon Art that can provide a significant advantage in combat. Master the timing and application of these arts.
• Manage Your Stamina: Two-handed weapons consume a lot of stamina. Pay close attention to your stamina bar and avoid overextending yourself.
• Utilize Poise: Two-handed weapons offer substantial poise, allowing you to tank through enemy attacks while delivering your own.
• Practice Spacing: Two-handed weapons often have longer reach than other weapon types. Use this to your advantage by maintaining a safe distance from enemies while still being able to strike effectively.
• Upgrade Your Weapon: Upgrading your weapon is crucial for increasing its damage output. Prioritize upgrading your preferred weapon as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the best infusions for two-handed weapons?

The best infusion depends on your build. Heavy infusion is ideal for strength builds, while Sharp infusion is best for dexterity builds. Refined infusion is a good option for quality builds (balanced strength and dexterity). Chaos and Dark infusions are fantastic for Pyromancy builds.

2. How important is poise when using two-handed weapons?

Poise is very important, especially when using heavier weapons. Higher poise allows you to withstand enemy attacks without being staggered, enabling you to trade blows effectively. Armor with high poise is essential for maximizing the effectiveness of two-handed weapons.

3. What are the best stats to level for a two-handed weapon build?

Strength and Vigor are the most important stats. Strength increases your damage output, while Vigor increases your health. Endurance is also important for managing stamina. Adaptability is useless in Dark Souls 3.

4. Are ultra greatswords better than greatswords?

Not necessarily. Ultra greatswords offer higher damage and stagger potential, but they are slower and consume more stamina. Greatswords offer a more balanced approach, with a faster moveset and lower stamina consumption.

5. What is the best way to deal with fast enemies when using a slow weapon?

Utilize your weapon’s reach to maintain distance and punish enemy attacks. Learn to time your attacks carefully and avoid overextending yourself. Consider using a faster weapon as a backup for dealing with highly mobile enemies.

6. How does two-handing a weapon affect its damage output?

Two-handing a weapon increases your strength by 50%, effectively allowing you to meet the strength requirement for heavier weapons and increasing your damage output.

7. What is the best armor to wear with a two-handed weapon build?

Armor with high poise and good physical defense is ideal. The Havel’s Set and Gundyr’s Set are popular choices, but any armor set that provides adequate protection and poise will work.

8. How do I effectively use Weapon Arts with two-handed weapons?

Practice the timing and application of your weapon’s Weapon Art. Experiment with different scenarios to learn when and how to use it effectively. The Stance weapon art for many greatswords is crucial for breaking enemy guards and punishing aggression.

9. What are the best rings to use with a two-handed weapon build?

The Havel’s Ring increases equip load, allowing you to wear heavier armor. The Ring of Favor increases health, stamina, and equip load. The Cloranthy Ring increases stamina recovery speed. The Leo Ring increases thrusting counter attack damage.

10. What are some common mistakes to avoid when using two-handed weapons?

Overextending yourself, neglecting stamina management, and failing to utilize poise are all common mistakes. Remember to practice patience and learn to time your attacks carefully.

11. How can I improve my PvP skills with two-handed weapons?

Practice spacing, learn to parry, and master the art of roll-catching. Watch experienced players and analyze their strategies. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.

12. Are there any specific bosses that are particularly difficult to fight with two-handed weapons?

Fast and agile bosses like the Dancer of the Boreal Valley and the Nameless King can be challenging. Consider using a faster weapon or summoning a co-op partner for these encounters.

13. What is the best starting class for a two-handed weapon build?

The Knight is a good starting class, as it has high strength and vigor. The Warrior is also a solid choice, with slightly lower starting stats but a more optimized distribution for a strength-based build.

14. Can I still parry with a two-handed weapon?

No, you cannot parry with a two-handed weapon unless the weapon has a parrying weapon art. You will need a shield or a parrying tool (like a dagger or a caestus) to parry effectively.

15. Where can I learn more about Dark Souls 3 strategies and builds?

There are numerous online resources available, including wikis, forums, and YouTube channels. Don’t be afraid to experiment and ask for advice from other players. You can also check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for resources related to learning through games.

Happy hunting, Ashen One! May your swings be mighty, and your enemies crushed beneath your powerful two-handed weapon.