Where is McDuff in Dark Souls 2? A Comprehensive Guide
McDuff, the enigmatic blacksmith of Dark Souls 2, is found within the depths of the Lost Bastille, specifically in the lower part. This location is characterized by a long staircase guarded by three dogs at its base, and a more formidable enemy at the staircase’s peak, near an explosive barrel. This area is an essential location for players looking to enhance their weapons with elemental infusions. However, accessing McDuff and utilizing his services requires a specific item and a bit of exploration.
Gaining Access to McDuff’s Services
To enable McDuff to provide his blacksmithing services, players must locate and present him with the Dull Ember. This crucial item is not found within the Lost Bastille itself, but rather in the Iron Keep. In the original Dark Souls 2, the Dull Ember was situated near the Smelter Demon boss area. However, in Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin, its location is much more accessible, sitting next to the Tower Apart bonfire in the Iron Keep, thus making it easier to locate.
McDuff’s Initial State
Upon first encountering McDuff, you will find him slumped, seemingly inactive, sitting on a chest in his cell. This inactive state prevents you from interacting with him. To awaken him from his slumber and get him to move off the chest, you must light the torch within his cell. Once the torch is lit, McDuff will move, giving you access to both him and the chest he was sitting on. This chest contains a Twinkling Titanite and the Craftsman’s Hammer.
Why is McDuff Important?
McDuff is essential for players who wish to delve into the infusion system of Dark Souls 2. Once you provide him with the Dull Ember, he can imbue your weapons with various elemental properties (e.g., fire, lightning, magic, dark) or special attributes. This ability significantly enhances weapon damage and adds strategic layers to combat, making it crucial for progressing through the game.
Related Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the significance of the Dull Ember?
The Dull Ember is the key to unlocking McDuff’s infusion services. Without it, he cannot infuse your weapons, and he acts as a typical vendor. Therefore, players must prioritize obtaining it from the Iron Keep.
2. Where exactly is the Dull Ember in Dark Souls 2: Scholar of the First Sin?
In the Scholar of the First Sin edition, the Dull Ember is conveniently located next to the Tower Apart bonfire in the Iron Keep. This makes it easy for players to find after entering the area.
3. Is McDuff the only blacksmith capable of infusing weapons?
Yes, McDuff is the primary and only blacksmith in Dark Souls 2 who can infuse your weapons with elements. Other blacksmiths like Lenigrast provide regular weapon upgrades.
4. What else is inside the chest that McDuff sits on?
Besides moving McDuff, this chest contains a Craftsman’s Hammer and 1x Twinkling Titanite.
5. What are some of the infusions McDuff can perform?
McDuff can infuse weapons with fire, lightning, magic, dark, poison, and other special attributes. These infusions add elemental damage and/or status effects.
6. Is there an item near McDuff’s workshop?
Yes, on the way to Straid of Olaphis, you will find a hidden wall leading to a shiny item. Jump over the gap then walk around the wall to get the shield. This is a unique shield that can parry spells.
7. How do you get to Straid of Olaphis?
Straid of Olaphis is located up the stairs in The Lost Bastille, near the bridge leading to Sinner’s Rise. He is initially petrified and must be unpetrified to interact with him.
8. How is the Lost Bastille connected to the Iron Keep?
The Iron Keep is accessible through the path following the optional boss, Ruin Sentinels, in The Lost Bastille.
9. Who is the first boss found in the Iron Keep?
The first boss in the Iron Keep is the Smelter Demon, a heavily armored demonic knight known for his powerful melee and fire-based attacks.
10. Where do I find the Uchigatana in Dark Souls 2?
The Uchigatana can be purchased from McDuff after giving him the Dull Ember. Other Uchigatanas are obtainable later in the game.
11. Where is Freja in Dark Souls 2?
The spider boss, Freja, is found in Brightstone Cove Tseldora. She is a large spider known for her powerful melee attacks and energy beam.
12. How do you unlock Lenigrast’s shop in Majula?
Lenigrast is found locked outside his shop in Majula. Players need Lenigrast’s Key to unlock it. Once he sets up shop, you can rest at the bonfire to complete the process.
13. Who is the optional boss King Vendrick?
The crazed King Vendrick is an optional boss found at the bottom of the Undead Crypt. He is a challenging encounter.
14. What is the best boss fight in Dark Souls 2?
There is no single “best boss,” but some of the community favorites include Sinh, The Slumbering Dragon, Burnt Ivory King, Darklurker, Fume Knight, Sir Alonne, and Looking Glass Knight.
15. Which boss should players fight first?
The first boss in Dark Souls 2 is the Last Giant, found at the bottom of an elevator shaft in the Forest of Fallen Giants.
Conclusion
McDuff’s location in the lower part of the Lost Bastille is crucial for players seeking to infuse their weapons with elemental damage and special attributes. Remember, accessing his full range of services requires acquiring the Dull Ember from the Iron Keep and lighting the torch in his cell. By understanding McDuff’s location and the surrounding context, you’ll be better prepared to conquer the challenges of Dark Souls 2. He is the gateway to many different builds, making it important to find him as early as possible.