The Path of Least Resistance: Maximizing Covenants in Dark Souls 2
The easiest covenant to max out in Dark Souls 2 is arguably the Way of Blue. This is because ranking up in this covenant is passively achieved. As a member of the Way of Blue, you summon Blue Sentinels to aid you when invaded. You do not have to do anything, and your covenant devotion will increase automatically as you are helped by the Blue Sentinels!
Covenants in Dark Souls 2: An Overview
Dark Souls 2, like its brethren, offers a complex and intriguing covenant system. These factions not only shape your gameplay experience but also offer unique rewards and challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer, understanding the nuances of each covenant is essential for maximizing your time in Drangleic. This article aims to delve into which covenant is the easiest to max out and will also touch upon various aspects of the game’s covenant system, from joining to benefits.
Why Covenants Matter
Covenants in Dark Souls 2 provide a layer of depth that goes beyond simple gameplay mechanics. They influence everything from PvP interactions to the availability of specific items and spells. Joining a covenant can drastically alter your experience, providing new challenges and opportunities.
Choosing the right covenant depends heavily on your play style and goals. Some covenants focus on cooperative play, while others encourage competitive PvP. Some enhance the difficulty of the game. Understanding these nuances is crucial for making the most of your time in Drangleic.
Easiest Covenant to Max Out: Way of Blue and Covenant of the Meek
The Way of Blue is designed for players who need assistance. When invaded by other players, Way of Blue members automatically summon a Blue Sentinel to their aid. The Way of Blue is easy to join. Talk to Crestfallen Saulden in Majula multiple times until he allows you to join.
While the Way of Blue is the easiest, the Covenant of the Meek is also extremely simple. This covenant is a “joke covenant” that you can level up merely by dying repeatedly. It is specifically tailored for struggling players. After accumulating a couple hundred deaths, you’ll eventually reach the maximum rank in the Covenant of the Meek. This is located in Things Betwixt, near the tutorial area. Seek out the monument to join.
A Word on Offline Play
It is worth noting that some covenants are easier to level up online than offline due to their reliance on multiplayer interactions. The Way of Blue is difficult to rank up offline, for example.
Other Covenants: A Brief Look
While this article focuses on the easiest covenant to maximize, it is important to consider some other popular covenants.
- Heirs of the Sun: Focuses on cooperative play.
- Brotherhood of Blood: Focuses on duels.
- Bell Keepers: Focuses on guarding the Belltowers.
- Rat King Covenant: Focuses on defending the Grave of Saints and Doors of Pharros with traps.
- Dragon Remnants: Focuses on honorable duels via Dragon Signs.
- Pilgrims of Dark: Focuses on completing dark areas.
- Blue Sentinels: This is the counterpart to the Brotherhood of Blood. The Way of Blue players summon Blue Sentinels when in need of aid.
Each of these covenants offers a unique experience and rewards, making exploration and experimentation highly encouraged.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens if I join a covenant and then leave?
When you leave a covenant, you lose any progress made in that covenant, as well as any specific benefits associated with it. This includes ranks and rewards earned within the covenant. However, there is no penalty for leaving or joining covenants.
2. Can I be in more than one covenant at a time?
No, you can only be a member of one covenant at a time. Joining a new covenant will automatically overwrite your membership in the previous one.
3. Does joining a covenant make the game harder?
Some covenants, like the Company of Champions, significantly increase the game’s difficulty. Others, like the Way of Blue, are designed to provide assistance.
4. How do I know which covenant is right for me?
The best covenant for you depends on your play style and goals. Consider whether you prefer cooperative or competitive play, and research the specific benefits and rewards of each covenant before making a decision.
5. What are the benefits of joining a covenant?
Covenants offer a variety of benefits, including access to unique items, spells, and PvP opportunities. They can also alter your gameplay experience in significant ways, adding depth and variety to your time in Dark Souls 2.
6. Can I reset my covenant rank?
No, there is no way to reset your covenant rank. Once you’ve earned progress in a covenant, it is permanent unless you leave the covenant altogether.
7. What is the hardest covenant to rank up in?
Covenants that require you to win PvP battles can be challenging to rank up in, especially if you are not skilled at PvP. Covenants like the Brotherhood of Blood and the Bell Keepers can be particularly difficult for some players.
8. Does my Soul Memory affect covenant matchmaking?
Yes, Soul Memory is a critical factor in matchmaking for PvP covenants. It determines who you can invade or be summoned by.
9. What rewards do I get for ranking up in covenants?
Rewards vary depending on the covenant. They can include unique weapons, armor, spells, and other items. Some covenants also offer cosmetic rewards, such as special titles or emblems.
10. Is it possible to complete Dark Souls 2 without joining any covenants?
Yes, it is entirely possible to complete Dark Souls 2 without joining any covenants. Covenants are optional and provide additional content and challenges, but they are not required to finish the main storyline.
11. How do I find the covenant leaders?
Covenant leaders are located in various areas throughout Drangleic. You will need to explore thoroughly to find them. Talking to NPCs and reading item descriptions can provide clues to their locations.
12. Are there any covenants that are purely for role-playing purposes?
While all covenants have gameplay implications, some, like the Pilgrims of Dark, have a strong thematic element that appeals to players interested in role-playing.
13. Can I switch back to a covenant I previously left?
Yes, you can freely switch back to a covenant you previously left. However, you will need to rejoin the covenant leader and start from rank 0 again.
14. Does my character build affect my covenant choices?
Yes, certain builds may be more suited to specific covenants. For example, a faith-based build may benefit from joining the Heirs of the Sun, while a PvP-focused build may prefer the Brotherhood of Blood.
15. Where can I learn more about game-based learning?
You can learn more about how video games can be used in education and training by visiting the GamesLearningSociety.org website. The Games Learning Society offers a great resource for information about game-based learning.
Conclusion: Choose Your Path Wisely
Dark Souls 2’s covenant system offers a wealth of opportunities for players to customize their experience and engage with the game in new ways. While the Way of Blue offers an easy route to maximization, the best covenant for you will ultimately depend on your play style and goals. Whether you seek cooperative camaraderie, competitive PvP, or simply a unique challenge, Drangleic has a covenant to suit your needs.