Mastering Reach: The Longest Range Weapons in the Dark Souls Universe
The question of the longest range weapon in Dark Souls is surprisingly complex, depending heavily on which game in the series you’re asking about and what you consider “range.” In Dark Souls 1, the answer is nuanced. Melee-wise, the Demon’s Spear and Dragonslayer Spear vie for the top spot. However, considering all weapon types, bows have superior range. Therefore, if we strictly define range as the maximum distance a weapon can effectively hit a target, the Black Bow of Pharis from Dark Souls 3 reigns supreme. This article delves into the details, exploring the contenders across the Dark Souls trilogy and answering your burning questions about range, power, and weapon selection.
Dissecting “Range”: Melee vs. Ranged
When discussing weapon range in Dark Souls, it’s crucial to differentiate between melee and ranged options. Melee weapons like swords, spears, and halberds have a limited reach dictated by their physical length and attack animations. Ranged weapons, primarily bows and crossbows, can attack targets at much greater distances.
Dark Souls 1: Spears and Bows
In the original Dark Souls, the Demon’s Spear and Dragonslayer Spear are renowned for their exceptional reach among melee weapons. Their thrusting attacks allow you to maintain a safe distance from enemies, making them ideal for cooperative play and exploiting enemy weaknesses.
However, bows like the Composite Bow and Black Bow of Pharis (while present, it’s not as dominant as in DS3) offer significantly greater range, enabling you to snipe enemies from afar. While the damage output of bows might not always be as high as melee weapons, their ability to engage from a safe distance is invaluable.
Dark Souls 3: The Reign of the Black Bow of Pharis
Dark Souls 3 definitively crowns the Black Bow of Pharis as the longest-range weapon. Its exceptional Range stat of 63 dwarfs that of other weapons, allowing you to target enemies at distances that other bows simply cannot reach effectively. This makes it a favorite among players who prefer a ranged-focused playstyle or those who need to pick off particularly dangerous enemies from a safe distance.
The Honorable Mentions
While the Black Bow of Pharis takes the crown in Dark Souls 3, other weapons deserve recognition for their respectable range and utility:
- Greatbows: Weapons like the Millwood Greatbow offer exceptional range and devastating damage, although their slow firing speed and heavy weight require careful planning and execution.
- Spears: Even in DS3, spears like the Lothric Knight Long Spear maintain decent range and are effective in both PvE and PvP.
FAQs: Answering Your Dark Souls Weapon Range Questions
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further expand your understanding of weapon range and selection in the Dark Souls series:
1. What is the longest sword in Dark Souls?
In Dark Souls 3, Gotthard Twinswords boasts the greatest length among straight swords, followed by Ringed Knight Straight Sword/Lothric Knight Sword, Dark Sword/Irithyll Straight Sword, and then the Lothric Knight Sword. This is crucial information for players prioritizing reach in their sword combat.
2. What makes the Black Knight Halberd so powerful in Dark Souls 1?
The Black Knight Halberd is powerful due to its combination of factors: easy acquisition, amazing range, fast attack speed, high damage output, and a moveset that excels in both PvE and PvP. It’s a well-rounded weapon suitable for various builds and playstyles.
3. Is there a “best” weapon in Dark Souls?
There is no universally “best” weapon. The optimal weapon depends on your playstyle, build, and the specific challenges you face. However, weapons like the Black Knight Halberd (DS1), Claymore, and the Zweihander are consistently ranked among the top choices due to their versatility and effectiveness.
4. What is the most broken weapon in Dark Souls 3?
The term “broken” is subjective and often refers to weapons that are considered overpowered. Some contenders for the most broken weapon in Dark Souls 3 include the Lothric Knight Sword, Repeating Crossbow, and the Demon’s Scar, depending on the patch and meta.
5. What weapon deals the most single-hit damage in Dark Souls?
The Dragon King Greataxe is known for its potential to inflict the highest single-hit damage, particularly when using its weapon art or a charged heavy attack. Obtaining it from the Gaping Dragon early in Dark Souls 1 can give players a significant advantage.
6. What is the hardest hitting weapon in Dark Souls Remastered?
The Lifehunt Scythe acquired from Priscilla’s Soul is a top contender for the hardest-hitting weapon in Dark Souls Remastered. Its high damage output and bleed build-up make it incredibly effective, although it also inflicts bleed on the wielder.
7. What is the strongest enemy in Dark Souls 1?
Enemies like Knight Artorias, Gwyn, and even certain bosses like Ornstein and Smough can prove extremely challenging depending on your build and playstyle. Each boss has unique attack patterns and weaknesses that require careful observation and strategy.
8. Is the Zweihander a longsword?
Early Zweihänders were indeed larger versions of longswords. However, later Zweihänders evolved into specialized cutting weapons with distinct features like parrying hooks and side rings.
9. Is the Zweihander a quality weapon in DS1?
The Zweihander is a viable weapon in Dark Souls 1, offering high damage potential early in the game. Its effectiveness makes it a popular choice among players seeking a powerful and accessible weapon.
10. What is the hardest trophy to obtain in Dark Souls 1?
The Knight’s Honor achievement is widely regarded as the most difficult trophy to obtain in Dark Souls 1. It requires multiple playthroughs, defeating all bosses multiple times, and extensive farming for rare weapons.
11. What are some of the fastest weapons in Dark Souls 1?
Daggers are the fastest weapons in Dark Souls, capable of dealing significant damage when buffed. Other fast weapon types include curved swords, straight swords, rapiers, and some spears.
12. What is the heaviest weapon in Demon’s Souls?
Bramd is the heaviest weapon in Demon’s Souls, offering high Strength scaling and resistance to poison and plague. Its powerful attacks can break through most shields.
13. What weapon should I reinforce in Dark Souls?
The ideal weapon to reinforce depends on your playstyle and build. Popular choices include the Claymore, Zweihander, Black Knight Sword, Longsword, or weapons that complement your preferred stats.
14. What is the most powerful one-handed weapon in Dark Souls 3?
The Ringed Knight Straight Sword generally ranks highly among the most powerful one-handed weapons in Dark Souls 3 due to its damage output, moveset, and fire damage infusion.
15. What weapon requires the most strength in Dark Souls 3?
Ledo’s Great Hammer requires the highest Strength stat in Dark Souls 3, demanding a whopping 60 Strength to wield effectively. This makes it a weapon exclusively for dedicated Strength builds.
Choosing Your Weapon: Range and Beyond
Ultimately, selecting the “best” weapon in Dark Souls involves balancing range with other factors such as damage, attack speed, moveset, and scaling. While the Black Bow of Pharis in Dark Souls 3 offers unparalleled range, it might not be the optimal choice for every situation. Consider your playstyle, build, and the specific challenges you face when choosing your weapon. Experimentation and adaptation are key to success in the harsh world of Dark Souls.
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