Beating Smough and Ornstein: A Comprehensive Guide

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The easiest way to beat Smough and Ornstein is to employ a combination of strategic weapon choices, such as the Crystal Halberd or Soul Spears, with effective tactics like keeping a safe distance, using fire-based attacks to exploit their weaknesses, and distracting one boss while focusing on the other. By understanding their attack patterns, weaknesses, and utilizing the right equipment and summons, such as Solaire of Astora, players can significantly increase their chances of success in this notoriously challenging boss fight.

Understanding Smough and Ornstein

To tackle this formidable duo, it’s essential to grasp their individual strengths and weaknesses. Smough is particularly weak to fire and lightning, while Ornstein is weak to fire but resistant to lightning. This distinction in weaknesses can guide your choice of weapons and spells.

Choosing the Right Equipment

Weapons

• Crystal Halberd: A popular choice among speedrunners, obtained from a mimic in Anor Londo.
• Soul Spears: Effective for keeping distance and dealing consistent damage.
• Fire-based weapons or spells: Such as Combustion or Great Combustion, which are particularly effective against both bosses.

Armor

While there isn’t a single best armor for this fight, heavy armor sets like the Giant Set, Havel’s Armor, or Smough’s Set can provide significant protection. However, consider the weight and poise stats to ensure mobility isn’t compromised.

Tactics and Strategies

• Keep Distance: Use ranged attacks to avoid taking unnecessary damage from their powerful melee attacks.
• Distract and Focus: If possible, summon an ally like Solaire of Astora to distract one boss while you focus on the other.
• Exploit Weaknesses: Use fire against both, but consider lightning for Smough if you have access to it.
• Parrying: While you can’t fully parry their attacks, timing a partial parry can leave them open to a riposte.
• Stay Alert: Be prepared to sprint away from Smough’s ground pound attack and uppercut from Ornstein after his thrust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What level should I be to fight Ornstein and Smough?

• It’s recommended to be around levels 40-60, with 50 being a sweet spot for co-op play.

1. What is Smough and Ornstein’s weakness?

• Smough is weak to fire and lightning, while Ornstein is weak to fire.

1. Is Ornstein weak to Lightning?

• No, Ornstein is actually resistant to lightning, making fire a better choice.

1. Can I parry Ornstein?

• You can partial parry but not fully parry his attacks.

1. Are Ornstein and Smough brothers?

• They are not explicitly stated to be brothers but rather co-workers under Lord Gwyn.

1. Can you summon NPC for Ornstein and Smough?

• Yes, summoning Solaire of Astora can be highly beneficial.

1. What happens if you kill Ornstein first?

• You get the Soul of Smough and 50,000 Souls.

1. How many tries to kill Ornstein and Smough?

• The number of attempts can vary, but with the right strategy, it can be done in under 10 tries.

1. Can solaire help with Ornstein and Smough?

• Yes, Solaire can deal with Ornstein on his own if you distract Smough.

1. Is Ornstein immune to bleed?

   • Both are resistant to bleed, but Ornstein has a higher resistance.

2. What is the strongest build in ds1?

   • The Pyro Swordsman build is arguably one of the strongest due to the power of pyromancy.

3. What is the best heavy armor in ds1?

   • The Giant Set and Havel’s Armor are top choices for heavy armor sets.

4. Is the godskin duo Ornstein and Smough?

   • No, they are a unique duo with their own lore and fight mechanics.

5. Is Nameless King immune to lightning?

   • The Nameless King is resistant to lightning, among other elements.

6. How do you stagger Ornstein?

   • Baiting his slow lunge thrust and hitting him from the side can potentially stagger him, allowing for a counterattack.

By mastering these strategies and understanding the nuances of the fight, players can overcome the challenge posed by Smough and Ornstein, advancing further in the Dark Souls world with confidence and a deeper appreciation for the game’s intricate mechanics and lore.