[PS3] Demon's Souls

[Iron Past]

I've considered 4-1, but I have a feeling some of the bosses there would p0wn my ass. Ive fought my way up to a courtyard with a giant bastard sitting in the middle and decided to let discretion be the better part of valor and instead went up top and killed a bunch of archers. If nothing else, this is a good soul farming route.

Couple things on 4-1. First, you can go around that big dude. There's a hidden doorway somewhere on the left tower; there's a stairway that seemingly ends in a wall, but you can walk through it and it'll disappear, leading to an underground path where you come up behind him; there's also a merchant down there if you found the key. Second, if you attack that big dude at range, he won't aggro, for some reason. I sat just outside his aggro range and flung Soul Arrow at him till he keeled over. Kind of cheap, but it worked, and I had to avoid the flying sting ray the whole time. Guy would one-shot me if I got too close anyways.

[Serapth]

Couple things on 4-1. First, you can go around that big dude. There's a hidden doorway somewhere on the left tower; there's a stairway that seemingly ends in a wall, but you can walk through it and it'll disappear, leading to an underground path where you come up behind him; there's also a merchant down there if you found the key. Second, if you attack that big dude at range, he won't aggro, for some reason. I sat just outside his aggro range and flung Soul Arrow at him till he keeled over. Kind of cheap, but it worked, and I had to avoid the flying sting ray the whole time. Guy would one-shot me if I got to close anyways.

Oh, that Stingray is actually a mob and not just part of the set? ;) Just got used to seeing it, that I ignored it.

[frederec]

Ok, wait? So 1-1,2-1,3-1,4-1,5-1 are all do-able at the time you open them up?

Yes.


I sorta figured some would be uber hard or have insta kill mobs etc...

You may have seen the Red Eyes Knight in world 1-1 and gotten your ass kicked by him. There are occasional things like that (black skeletons in world 4 can be tough). But for the most part, the difficulty of the monster is in relation to your skill more than your level. Not that your level doesn't matter. But you can try the first level of each world with varying levels of success.


Does difficulty scale to level, or is it based off depth into the world ( the -2,-3,-4,-5 part )? From my returns to level 1-1 and 1-2, it doesn't seem like its getting harder as I level, so I didn't figure there was level scaling going on ( I really hope there isn't actually ).

It does get harder as you get further in the levels, but again, not quite in the standard RPG progression you might expect. For instance, there are huge pillbugs in 2-2 that have high defense and hit points and explode when they die. But they go down relatively quickly with magical attacks or magically enchanted weapons.

The biggest challenges in world 5 are the environment. And these huge club wielding trolls you occasionally run into.

Generally speaking the only time you will go "holy shit that enemy is hard" is when you either get swarmed by enemies or run into some black phantoms due to your world tendency being too far towards black. And some of the skeletons in 4-1. Those guys can be nasty.

[frederec]

Couple things on 4-1. First, you can go around that big dude. There's a hidden doorway somewhere on the left tower; there's a stairway that seemingly ends in a wall, but you can walk through it and it'll disappear, leading to an underground path where you come up behind him; there's also a merchant down there if you found the key. Second, if you attack that big dude at range, he won't aggro, for some reason. I sat just outside his aggro range and flung Soul Arrow at him till he keeled over. Kind of cheap, but it worked, and I had to avoid the flying sting ray the whole time. Guy would one-shot me if I got too close anyways.

Yeah, I'd always kill him with arrows from the top of the wall.

Oh, that Stingray is actually a mob and not just part of the set? ;) Just got used to seeing it, that I ignored it.

They're not part of the scenery. They're one of the more annoying aspects of world 4, since they are very far away but can shoot these huge spears at you.

[Serapth]

Generally speaking the only time you will go "holy shit that enemy is hard" is when you either get swarmed by enemies or run into some black phantoms due to your world tendency being too far towards black. And some of the skeletons in 4-1. Those guys can be nasty.

Ok, this is one of those things I keep seeing mentioned but don't understand. What exactly is world tendency and what contributes to it?

[frederec]

Ok, this is one of those things I keep seeing mentioned but don't understand. What exactly is world tendency and what contributes to it?

There is world tendency and character tendency. You can see a general overview of both by looking in the world tendency portion of your menu. The statue in the middle is your character tendency, and each archstone around it indicates the world tendency. They range from black, to neutral, to white. Pure white generally glows, pure black is pretty solid black.

As the world tendency get more towards white, enemies actually get weaker, but give a bit more experience. This is why people generally encourage new users to start if there's a PWWT (pure white world tendency) event. As things get more towards black, enemies get stronger but give more experience. At the extreme ends of either spectrum, certain special NPCs and monsters can show up. Far towards the black end you'll see black phantom versions of regular enemies as well as black phantom NPCs. They can be nasty.

Generally you shift towards white when you kill the boss of an area. There are other ways (killing a primordial demon also does it, but those only show up when you're already near black), but that's the main one.

You shift towards black when you die in body form in a level. This is a large part of the reason people play in offline mode if they're trying to get through some of the pure white events.

Character tendency is trickier to shift. As your character tendency gets more towards white, you do more damage, and have more HP in soul form. As it gets towards black, you do less damage and have less HP in soul form (it can be terrifying to run through a world that is pure black while your HP is pathetic from being pure black character tendency).

Character tendency shifts by killing NPCs. Killing friendly NPCs (whether in the Nexus or a world) shifts you toward black. Killing black phantom NPCs (of which there is only one in each world, and only when the world is pretty much pure black) shifts you towards white.

Character tendency shifts become important if you're going for the platinum trophy, since there are rings that you can only get after achieving each character tendency. They're a bit of a bitch, though, and I wouldn't worry about it until you feel pretty comfortable with the game.

[frederec]

For a taste of both versions of World Tendency, Atlus just sent out an email in celebration of Demon's Souls one year anniversary.


Faithful, thanks to you and your passion for Demon's Souls, it has gone on to become the biggest success in Atlus U.S.A., Inc.'s two decade history.

Today, we celebrate not only its one year anniversary, but a year full of adventures, alliances, and invasions in the Kingdom of Boletaria. To honor the occasion, the month of October will be split into two World Tendency events: 10/6-10/18 will be Pure White, and the remainder of the month will shift to Pure Black.

If ever there was a game championed and made a success by its fans, this would be it. Here's to many more groundbreaking online action role-playing experiences.

Your support over this past year will never be forgotten. Thank you for touching the demon inside us, Faithful.

[Gorvi]

That's really awesome to see. In 20 years it's the most successful game they've ever published. :)

[Serapth]

Being the best selling Atlus USA game ain't exactly tricky is it? Kinda like being the best selling Bjork album in Africa.


Not a bash, they are just the definition of niche.

[Gorvi]

Yeah, they're definitely niche, but they've had some mild successes. It's nice to see DS has done so well for them.

[frederec]

I'm pretty sure it's the first game they've put out that's gone Greatest Hits. I saw it in the red box the other day. It was kinda neat.

[Gorvi]

Nah, Disgaea went Greatest Hits on the PS2. I was expecting that that would have been their best selling game.

[frederec]

I forgot about that. Good point. After all, the success of Disgaea did lead to the formation of Nippon Ichi's US studio.

[Kelegacy]

Awesome news, glad they had great success with the game.

I wish Project Dark was called Demon's Souls 2, if it basically winds up being that in anything but name.

I still need to beat the game. I put it aside in the spring after loving it like mad. Still have one world to go.

[frederec]

I wish Project Dark was called Demon's Souls 2, if it basically winds up being that in anything but name.


If it's as good as Demon's Souls, they can call it whatever they want. But I agree, I'd like some more definitive confirmation that it is a follow-up to Demon's Souls.

[Spigot]

Anything that makes Atlus more money so that they'll be able to keep making more games makes me happy :) Congrats to Atlus.

And of course, when they have a PWWT event, I AM GOING OUT OF TOWN. Grr... It's like they know when I'm going to be away and schedule the easy mode for then. I am always around when it's PBWT...

[Hawkzombie]

I already did all my pure white things, so I guess I'll be going after the pure black ones :p

[Serapth]

Wow, this game has some seriously fucked up difficulty aspects. Going from the one-hitting, soul level draining boss of 1-4 which was insanely difficult to Old Hero who was a fucking joke. Seriously the reapers were 5x harder than he was. This game is right weird. Its like a 50/50 chance of the boss being difficult or a joke. I think I beat the Crystal Spider boss by mashing X, while the boss at the end of 4-1 one shotted me twice before I figured out where the fuck he actually was.


Very very odd game.

[danhoo]

Wow, this game has some seriously fucked up difficulty aspects. Going from the one-hitting, soul level draining boss of 1-4 which was insanely difficult to Old Hero who was a fucking joke. Seriously the reapers were 5x harder than he was. This game is right weird. Its like a 50/50 chance of the boss being difficult or a joke. I think I beat the Crystal Spider boss by mashing X, while the boss at the end of 4-1 one shotted me twice before I figured out where the fuck he actually was.


Very very odd game.

You're referring to the False King in 1-4? While the game doesn't enforce this, I think he's supposed to really be the "final boss" of the game. Most of the bosses should look like a cakewalk compared to him.

Some of the bosses are surprisingly easy depending on the approach you take (ranged vs melee, etc), or surprisingly hard. The 5-1 boss, I believe, I just killed with a bow from afar, untouched. I'd assume going up to him would have made it more of a fair fight.

[frederec]

You're referring to the False King in 1-4? While the game doesn't enforce this, I think he's supposed to really be the "final boss" of the game. Most of the bosses should look like a cakewalk compared to him.

Some of the bosses are surprisingly easy depending on the approach you take (ranged vs melee, etc), or surprisingly hard. The 5-1 boss, I believe, I just killed with a bow from afar, untouched. I'd assume going up to him would have made it more of a fair fight.

4-1 can be tricky, unless you get in the right spot where you can dodge. 5-1 has more room for you to move, but I think I generally would get up close and personal with him because of the regenerating swarm of bugs.

[Serapth]

I hate #@$@#$@#$ING falling distances, especially on 2 and 5. Sometimes you have to jump down to get to a new level, other times falls that would cause no damage are 100% fatal, no way to know which. Pure BS. A fairly shitty camera combined with instant death fall spots == fail.

[Serapth]

Ok, I fucking hate 5-1 with a passion I cant describe. To the level I might just say fuck this game and put it down. I have beaten all the other bosses, I just left this one alone because frankly, I hate it.

So I just went all the way through this annoying fucking level, get to the boss room, two steps forward and FALL TO MY FUCKING DEATH.

FUCK.

Seriously FUCK THIS LEVEL.

[maharahaj]

If you hate 5-1, you will utterly despise level 5-2, should you make it that far. If you make another run at the level 5-1 boss, make sure you can do fire damage via spells, arrows or enchanting your weapon!

[LarsenNET]

Yeah, 5-1 is tough but 5-2 is absolute bitch.

[frederec]

Yeah, but at least 5-1 you can unlock shortcuts in some spots and strategically fall in others to get their faster. Though it sounds like the strategic falling is part of the problem.

And I'm soooo grateful 5-2 has a shortcut you can unlock that allows you to bypass the swamp entirely. Once you've gone through it once, of course.

[danhoo]

And I'm soooo grateful 5-2 has a shortcut you can unlock that allows you to bypass the swamp entirely. Once you've gone through it once, of course.

Indeed -- you pretty much have to go all the way around the level, the long way, to get back to the shortcut. Ugg.

[Seika]

Demon's Souls in under 1 hour. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWi6t8Psv9w&feature=related)


I think it's time for me to turn in my gamer badge, I suck compared to that. :o

[Spigot]

I don't even want to look. I'll just cry.

[frederec]

Wow. I thought I would just watch it for a few minutes, but I couldn't help but watch the whole thing. That was impressive. The use of homing missile was amazing, especially in the Flamelurker fight. The bit in 4-1 also showed me the usefulness of parrying, which I never really figured out.

[Banacek]

I thought for sure he would skip world 5 altogether for a speed run. I can't believe he didn't.

[Xydarc]

Hasn't the PBWT event started?

[Spigot]

Started today, I believe.

[Serapth]

What exactly does that mean?

[Spigot]

Pure Black World Tendency. It was Pure White for the last two weeks (and of course, I didn't play) and now it's going to be Pure Black. Which means that if you thought it was hard lately, you ain't seen nothin' yet.

[Serapth]

Pure Black World Tendency. It was Pure White for the last two weeks (and of course, I didn't play) and now it's going to be Pure Black. Which means that if you thought it was hard lately, you ain't seen nothin' yet.

Oh for fu........... sakes, so thats why I couldn't get the $@@#$ing world tendency to change for the life of me???


Ugh, very new user unfriendly to be honest. This game is confusing as shit to start with.

So, now pure black, where are the most special areas I should revisit, as frankly I am fed up with 5-1.


Oh, have another question too... those little gem geckos respawn after each boss killed, if I kill a boss in "friendly ghostly helper mode" does that trigger a respawn?

[Iron Past]

Oh for fu........... sakes, so thats why I couldn't get the $@@#$ing world tendency to change for the life of me???


Ugh, very new user unfriendly to be honest. This game is confusing as shit to start with.

Did you miss the large warning saying what was going on that appears every time you log in and you had to press X to acknowledge? Also, here: http://demonssouls.wikidot.com/

[Xydarc]

http://demonssouls.wikidot.com/

The entries for each world lists both the Pure White and Pure Black World Tendency events. I'm going colorless Demon's Soul harvesting.

[frederec]

Oh, have another question too... those little gem geckos respawn after each boss killed, if I kill a boss in "friendly ghostly helper mode" does that trigger a respawn?

I think they respawn for each boss killed in your own game. So you won't get more geckos in your game for killing a boss in someone else's game.

[Serapth]

Hmmm, Mephisti..asdfjaspjahamos is spawned then eh? In my first play through should I just kill her off? The rewards as indicated by the wiki kinda look lame.

[frederec]

Hmmm, Mephisti..asdfjaspjahamos is spawned then eh? In my first play through should I just kill her off? The rewards as indicated by the wiki kinda look lame.

She shows up as a result of pure black character tendency. It's a little different. In my opinion, you only go after her if you're out to get the trophy for having gotten all the rings.

However, if you're into PVP, the Foe's Ring, which is the reward for assassinating Yuria for Mephistopheles, could be cool. But again, I only went for it for the trophy.

[Dukefrukem]

So I've made it a point to start this next week after they announced the servers would be extended until Fall 2011. What happens when they shut down the servers? Will the game be unplayable?

[Codicier]

So I've made it a point to start this next week after they announced the servers would be extended until Fall 2011. What happens when they shut down the servers? Will the game be unplayable?

No, but you won't be able to play online. Playing online means:


that other players can leave you messages on the ground

you can see bloodstains for where other players died and watch a ghostly red image of them replay the last few moments before their death

you can invade other players games as a black phantom to try and regain your body in soul form(and I think shift your character tendency towards black)

your game can be invaded by other black phantom players when you're in body form

you can summon blue phantom players to help you


I think that's all the online stuff but it has been a while since I played so I might be forgetting something.

[jpublic]

No, you just won't be able to play online and tendency events won't happen.

[Spigot]

And the general world tendency shifts that are initiated by Atlus.

[Dukefrukem]

So I should play asap is what you're saying. Gotcha.

[Spigot]

Well, you have until next fall. No rush :)

[Xydarc]

Is Atlus running a PWWT for Christmas this year?

[Serapth]

Considering they just released a greatest hits version, shutting down the servers next year seems like some kind of bullshit to me.

[x Returner x]

Is Atlus running a PWWT for Christmas this year?

Yup sure are.

http://www.atlus.com/forum/showthread.php?t=8393

[Gorvi]

They never said they were shutting them down next Fall, only that they're guaranteeing that they'll be up until then. I want to say that they originally only guaranteed that they'd be up until April 2010, so for all we know the servers might be up for a long time to come. It'd be nice if once they do decide to drop the server support if they'd allow a fan server to be run.

[x Returner x]

They never said they were shutting them down next Fall, only that they're guaranteeing that they'll be up until then. I want to say that they originally only guaranteed that they'd be up until April 2010, so for all we know the servers might be up for a long time to come. It'd be nice if once they do decide to drop the server support if they'd allow a fan server to be run.

Hell I would buy an extra PS3 just to run a Demon's Soul server.

[Dukefrukem]

Hell I would buy an extra PS3 just to run a Demon's Soul server.

If we see another price drop that might not be such a bad idea.

[Lon Lon Rabbit]

Finally started this a week ago and am having a good time.

A few questions though:

1) I just finished part 1 of all worlds, and part 2 of world 1. Any tips on what I should try next? Any particularly good gear lying around I should try and hunt out? I am still using stuff that I got pretty early on, although some of it has been upgraded a fair bit and seems to be doing fine.

2) Where did the miracle teacher go? He's not sitting behind the wall anymore. The magic teacher is still there on the other side. I've never attacked anyone in the Nexus before. Did he move/will he come back/am I bugged?

3) How do you use the boss souls? I have them all in storage at the moment cos I can't figure it out. Chatting to the various people in the nexus while holding them never prompted anything.

4) I finally had a death by falling into an abyss last night. If I work my way back to the ledge I fell off, will there be a bloodstain to collect my souls from, or are they just gone forever because I fell into nothingness? It was quite deep in a level and I don't think I'll bother to head back there again just now unless my souls are still there.



You're probably all busy with Dark Souls at the moment so thanks in advance for taking the time to answer these!

[menage]

Finally started this a week ago and am having a good time.

A few questions though:

1) I just finished part 1 of all worlds, and part 2 of world 1. Any tips on what I should try next? Any particularly good gear lying around I should try and hunt out? I am still using stuff that I got pretty early on, although some of it has been upgraded a fair bit and seems to be doing fine.

2) Where did the miracle teacher go? He's not sitting behind the wall anymore. The magic teacher is still there on the other side. I've never attacked anyone in the Nexus before. Did he move/will he come back/am I bugged?

3) How do you use the boss souls? I have them all in storage at the moment cos I can't figure it out. Chatting to the various people in the nexus while holding them never prompted anything.

4) I finally had a death by falling into an abyss last night. If I work my way back to the ledge I fell off, will there be a bloodstain to collect my souls from, or are they just gone forever because I fell into nothingness? It was quite deep in a level and I don't think I'll bother to head back there again just now unless my souls are still there.



You're probably all busy with Dark Souls at the moment so thanks in advance for taking the time to answer these!

It's been a long time, but your souls should still be there. it usually sets them somewhere around the area where you died, not exactly on the spot your body landed.

People around the Nexus move around sometimes or dis-reappear, so it could just be temporary.

Boss souls are just massive soul chunks I think, so use em and level up. Not sure so you might check a wiki.

[Badger]

1) You probably want to push on through 2, as it opens the gate for 1-3 and you'll probably need to grind a bit more to beat 3, 4 and 5.

2) Have you rescued anyone? There is a miracle tutor that replaces the first ( Sage Freke I think? Can't remember). Also, be careful if you've invited the Silent Chief back to the Nexus.

3) You can use boss souls same as any other, but I'd recommend you hold on to them as many serve a particular purpose. For instance, you need a Red Hot Demon's soul to unlock advanced weapon upgrades with the blacksmith in 2-1.

4) Yes, your bloodstain will be near the edge of the fall.

Hope that helps!

[Lon Lon Rabbit]

Thanks both! That's a big help.

I haven't rescued freke yet but I just got the key to rescue him, so hopefully that's why my miracle trainer disappeared.

[evilgoodwin]

Freke is the spell teacher. I think the miracle teacher will wander off until you rescue the Priest (4-2).

And do NOT just use boss's souls to increase your soul-count. NEVER DO THAT.

The souls can be used for learning magic spells and put into weapons. The "Red-Hot Demon's" soul must be used on the blacksmith at the bottom of the elevator at the beginning of World 2 to use the other souls for weapons.

[menage]

Yeah, forgot about that, sorry. Dark Souls loses ditches that stuff a lot.

I do remember me not dicking around with that stuff too much. It became too vague for me to even now what the heck I was doing. Did have that red-hot demons weapon stuff, but I still didn't get all the other stuff.

[Lon Lon Rabbit]

So do I have to get Freke before I can use the souls for new magic spells?

I haven't been able to hand them off to the current spell trainer.

[evilgoodwin]

So do I have to get Freke before I can use the souls for new magic spells?

I haven't been able to hand them off to the current spell trainer.

Exactly. Freke's pretty easy to get to if you have the key. Just have to kill a few of those psycho jailers.

So glad I have an awesome bow. Wish I had more spiderstones, but oh well.

Also, those nifty upgrade stones can be used by the blacksmith without having to get them out of storage.

[Joshkdmw]

I'm in a similar boat to Lon Lon! Got the Gabe a week ago.

I'm through Boletaria 1 and Latria 1, working on the valley of defilement, which I'm finding super easy.

I'm playing a thief up to soul level 27. Dex is up to 21, Int JUST high enough for 3 spells (Cloak, Demon's prank, and Soul Ray).

Still in black leather, which us fine for now, as the poison resistance is pretty handy. Only ever gory poisoned once so far.

For arms, I'm sporting a Falchion and Mail Breaker in my main hand, claw and catalyst in off hand (I like to parry). If I see a monster or weapon too big to parry, I use a soul ray or three.

Any good tips and tricks? Build advice?

Also, I tried invading someone else's game as a black phantom, but I couldn't find them. Is there a trick to that?

Lon Lon, what kinda character you playing?

[evilgoodwin]

I'm in a similar boat to Lon Lon! Got the Gabe a week ago.

I'm through Boletaria 1 and Latria 1, working on the valley of defilement, which I'm finding super easy.

I'm playing a thief up to soul level 27. Dex is up to 21, Int JUST high enough for 3 spells (Cloak, Demon's prank, and Soul Ray).

Still in black leather, which us fine for now, as the poison resistance is pretty handy. Only ever gory poisoned once so far.

For arms, I'm sporting a Falchion and Mail Breaker in my main hand, claw and catalyst in off hand (I like to parry). If I see a monster or weapon too big to parry, I use a soul ray or three.

Any good tips and tricks? Build advice?

Also, I tried invading someone else's game as a black phantom, but I couldn't find them. Is there a trick to that?

Lon Lon, what kinda character you playing?

Yeah, getting poisoned means I got close enough to get hit. Which means I'm dead anyway :P

I have a Purple Flame shield and a Winged Spear. The shield stops almost all damage, and the spear lets me stab things in the face while blocking, though it can be pretty dangerous.

[Xydarc]

I'm going to be rolling a new Royal this weekend to take advantage of the PWWT.

[Blue]

Freke is the spell teacher. I think the miracle teacher will wander off until you rescue the Priest (4-2).

And do NOT just use boss's souls to increase your soul-count. NEVER DO THAT.

The souls can be used for learning magic spells and put into weapons. The "Red-Hot Demon's" soul must be used on the blacksmith at the bottom of the elevator at the beginning of World 2 to use the other souls for weapons.

Oops.

Short.

[Joshkdmw]

I'm going to be rolling a new Royal this weekend to take advantage of the PWWT.

The what, now?

[Codicier]

The what, now?

Pure White World Tendency:

http://demonssouls.wikidot.com/world-tendency#toc3

Essentially it makes the game easier at the expense of XP/Soul/Item bonuses. The reverse being true of Pure Black World Tendency.

Also, certain events occur in different areas depending on your world tendency, black or white.

[Xydarc]

The what, now?
The Royal is a great starting character due to his having Soul Arrow at the start of the game.:)

[Joshkdmw]

The Royal is a great starting character due to his having Soul Arrow at the start of the game.:)

Plus a natural passive mana Regen. I picked up soul ray and a mana Regen magical sword, though, so I have plenty of dakka. My primary concern is armor, but I can usually dodge away from attacks. That's how I roll.

[Blue]

Finally beat Maneater today. Was not a fan of that fight.

Thanks to the WWT event, I was also finally able to get through the gate and beat the Executioner person in 1-1, get the Dragon Bone Smasher from 2-3 (though I haven't decided if I want to part with it yet and give it to Scirvir... I hear if I kill him I'll net a Ronin Ring, is it worth it?), and grab the key from 3-2 and free Sage Freke and Lord Rydell in 3-1.

Very exciting indeed. Was killed trying to beat Old Monk from 3-3, may give it another go this evening.

[Joshkdmw]

Finally beat Maneater today. Was not a fan of that fight.
.

Yeah, it makes you work hard - makes you sweat hard.

Watch out boy, it'll chew you up. Whoa-oh, here it comes.

I got stuck on the dirty colossus because me and my roommate were giggling to much at the time at trying to imagine which sex act that name could describe.

[Xydarc]

That's how I roll.
With the Circle button?;)

[Dukefrukem]

So I just started this too... is this supposed to be appealing playing the same level over and over again with no way to restore your health? Or am i missing something?

[Blue]

Yeah, it makes you work hard - makes you sweat hard.

Watch out boy, it'll chew you up. Whoa-oh, here it comes.

I got stuck on the dirty colossus because me and my roommate were giggling to much at the time at trying to imagine which sex act that name could describe.

Kept going through my head the first ten times I died. After that, I was screaming too loud to remember the lyrics.

[Xydarc]

So I just started this too... is this supposed to be appealing playing the same level over and over again with no way to restore your health? Or am i missing something?
Grass is your healing item. There's quite a lot that drops in 1-1. If you have it equipped, hit Square to use it.

Take the time to read through the thread. There's tons and tons of advice. Plus the Wiki is fantastic.

Edit: Roll a Royal. Soul Arrow is a definite advantage and will make the early parts of the game more manageable.

[Wombat]

Finally beat Maneater today. Was not a fan of that fight.

Thanks to the WWT event, I was also finally able to get through the gate and beat the Executioner person in 1-1, get the Dragon Bone Smasher from 2-3 (though I haven't decided if I want to part with it yet and give it to Scirvir... I hear if I kill him I'll net a Ronin Ring, is it worth it?), and grab the key from 3-2 and free Sage Freke and Lord Rydell in 3-1.

Very exciting indeed. Was killed trying to beat Old Monk from 3-3, may give it another go this evening.

You don't actually have to give it to Scirvir. He just wants to see it.

[Blue]

You don't actually have to give it to Scirvir. He just wants to see it.

Well that's awesome. Thanks!

[Dukefrukem]

Ok I'm getting the hang of it. How do I know when I reached a checkpoint? Or end of the level? Or how do I save?
I just opened a gate. THat's all i know right now.

[Dukefrukem]

and what does it mean when I come across a message that says: "In trouble, please recommend this"

[Blue]

Ok I'm getting the hang of it. How do I know when I reached a checkpoint? Or end of the level? Or how do I save?
I just opened a gate. THat's all i know right now.

There aren't really checkpoints in the game per se, but in the upper-right you'll see a little flashing white-grey circle next to the world symbol (I think that's what it is) whenever it auto-saves for you. When that happens, you can quit out and it'll load back up where you were and it happens pretty frequently.

I'm sure you've already figured this out due to your previous post, but if you die, you start at the beginning and lose your progress.

[Spigot]

That being said, the game is pretty persistant. If you open a gate, it stays open. If you unlock a back door to an area, it stays open. Etc. etc..

Just ignore those kind of blood scrawls. I forget exactly what happens if you get x number of people to recommend a message for you, but there's some kind of positive payoff if other people like the message you've left.

The main thing about the game is that you have to play carefully and slowly.

[Blue]

That being said, the game is pretty persistant. If you open a gate, it stays open. If you unlock a back door to an area, it stays open. Etc. etc..

Just ignore those kind of blood scrawls. I forget exactly what happens if you get x number of people to recommend a message for you, but there's some kind of positive payoff if other people like the message you've left.

The main thing about the game is that you have to play carefully and slowly.

That's a good point about progress being made in that sense. In 3-2 today, I finally got past the Mind Flayer black phantom and to the beginning and high-tailed it out of there to spend my souls :)

[Dukefrukem]

Just beat Phalanx... that was awesome. I'm in.

[Blue]

Ha! That was my point too. I was about to snap the disc in half and I finally beat Phalanx and then played the stupid thing for at least a week straight. I found 2-1 easier than 1-2, if that helps you at all.

At least I think it was...may be confusing it with 1-3...

[Xydarc]

and what does it mean when I come across a message that says: "In trouble, please recommend this"
Anytime you recommend a message, that player gets his hp/mana restored. Help a player out.

[Dukefrukem]

Ha! That was my point too. I was about to snap the disc in half and I finally beat Phalanx and then played the stupid thing for at least a week straight. I found 2-1 easier than 1-2, if that helps you at all.

At least I think it was...may be confusing it with 1-3...

I don't know what that means. 2-1? 1-3?

[Blue]

I don't know what that means. 2-1? 1-3?

Phalanx is in 1-1, so World 1, Stage 1. Now that you've beaten him, you can go on to 1-2 if you'd like or head back to the Nexus and try any of the other first Stages (2-1, 3-1, 4-1, or 5-1).

[Dukefrukem]

Ahhhh. That makes sense. They don't do a very good job explaining that stuff. I went back to the Nexus because that thing in the middle of the room told me to, or at least gave me the option to. But none of the other stages are unlocked it appears?

So I should go back to the first stage and beat another boss dude?

[Blue]

Yeah, the game really is a trial by fire in a lot of ways. In most ways. Did you walk up the inner staircase in the Nexus and try each of the pillars for the different levels? It's been long enough that I honestly can't remember if they're locked or not but I thought after beating Phalanx, they weren't.

And you can certainly move on in the first World if you'd like. The big bad of 1-2 is the Tower Knight who I didn't think was too nasty but I had leveled up and gotten some okay equipment by then and I think he has a bit of a pattern to him which makes him more timing-centered than some of the other bosses.

Also, if you haven't looked it up yet, this (http://demonssouls.wikidot.com/) is pretty handy.

[Dukefrukem]

Yeah, the game really is a trial by fire in a lot of ways. In most ways. Did you walk up the inner staircase in the Nexus and try each of the pillars for the different levels? It's been long enough that I honestly can't remember if they're locked or not but I thought after beating Phalanx, they weren't.

And you can certainly move on in the first World if you'd like. The big bad of 1-2 is the Tower Knight who I didn't think was too nasty but I had leveled up and gotten some okay equipment by then and I think he has a bit of a pattern to him which makes him more timing-centered than some of the other bosses.

Also, if you haven't looked it up yet, this (http://demonssouls.wikidot.com/) is pretty handy.

Yeh I tried the first few on each side of the staircase. No dice.

[Blue]

Yeh I tried the first few on each side of the staircase. No dice.

Try talking to The Monumental (I think it's the dude in the back on the first floor in the middle of the room between the stairs). I think he's the one that opens them up for you.

EDIT: I lied, according to the wiki (http://demonssouls.wikidot.com/monumental), he's on a balcony above the archstones, sitting in front of a candle. Looks a little like Buddha.

But not Bad Buddha.

[Dukefrukem]

I'll check that out. THanks.

[Blue]

Sure thing.

[menage]

Anytime you recommend a message, that player gets his hp/mana restored. Help a player out.

I learned something new today!:)

Now I have the urge to play Demons Souls as well, I think I crave more punishment.

[Dukefrukem]

Try talking to The Monumental (I think it's the dude in the back on the first floor in the middle of the room between the stairs). I think he's the one that opens them up for you.

EDIT: I lied, according to the wiki (http://demonssouls.wikidot.com/monumental), he's on a balcony above the archstones, sitting in front of a candle. Looks a little like Buddha.

But not Bad Buddha.

Jesus how would I have found this without your help....?

[evilgoodwin]

Jesus how would I have found this without your help....?

Maiden in Black told me where it was. But finding him is still rough, as there's a bunch of Monumentals up there. He's just the only one that talks.

[maharahaj]

So I should go back to the first stage and beat another boss dude?

Level 3-1 has the easiest boss in the game (except for 1-1's Phalanx), but the typical enemy throughout the level is one of the hardest unless you have a mid range attack to keep you safe (they have brutal close range and long range attacks but can't hit you from mid-range; you'll have to discover what that range is to be safe). Level 4-1 has nasty skeletons as its typical enemy, but if you can learn to dodge their attacks, they drop rediculous amounts of souls. You can level up real fast by killing 10-12 of them near the level entrance, return to the nexus, spend the souls and repeat.

I would suggest either farming the skeletons in 4-1 to level up quick or try exploring 2-1 or 3-1 and opening the shortcuts in those levels. While doing that, you'll pick up some good items and level up a bit. Level 1-2 should be relatively easy to get through, as it is very linear and the enemies are the same skill level as in 1-1, but it is next to impossible to back track through due to a certain overhead enemy (which you can kill, but it takes forever), so if you get hung up on the boss, it is not easy to fetch your dropped souls in another run and make it back to the nexus with them if you wanted to try that boss at a later time.

Stay away from World 5 for the meantime. While 5-1 is relatively easy, its boss regenerates itself and you need a constant fire attack of some sort (its weakness) in order to overcome its regeneration rate.

[Dukefrukem]

Does leveling up happen automatically? I haven't seen anything appear on screen that says I have leveled up but when I was in the Nexus i saw something that mentioned the number 6? Does that make sense after finishing 1-1?

Also, using weapons is greek to me. I have no idea whats good or whats bad right now. And i can't figure out how to get my strength up.

[maharahaj]

Does leveling up happen automatically? I haven't seen anything appear on screen that says I have leveled up but when I was in the Nexus i saw something that mentioned the number 6? Does that make sense after finishing 1-1?

Also, using weapons is greek to me. I have no idea whats good or whats bad right now. And i can't figure out how to get my strength up.

After beating level 1-1 (and I think you have to talk to the Monumental as well), you'll be able to talk to the women with the staff in the Nexus and apply gathered souls to your various stats. She wanders around the area, but should be relatively easy to find.

You are free to apply your captured souls to whatever stats you want, despite your starting class.

[Dukefrukem]

also how does this guy have his sword on fire at 6:50? how is he attacking those skeleton dudes? (insane video btw)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWi6t8Psv9w

[Dukefrukem]

After beating level 1-1 (and I think you have to talk to the Monumental as well), you'll be able to talk to the women with the staff in the Nexus and apply gathered souls to your various stats. She wanders around the area, but should be relatively easy to find.

You are free to apply your captured souls to whatever stats you want, despite your starting class.

OMG another how was I supposed to know? I was playing 2-1 without leveling up

[maharahaj]

Since the soul cost to upgrade your stat levels is so cheap at the beginning of the game, feel free to spend them as soon as you get them. There is no sense in holding on to 4,000+ soul points that could be dropped and potentially lost while your character is still relatively weak in the early stages of the game.

I would explore part of a level, clearing out enemies, then retreat back to the nexus and spend my souls. Then I'd go back to the same level and kill the same enemies while exploring a little farther perhaps finding/opening a shortcut back to the start of the level; rinse and repeat. 2-1 is a good level to do this in as there is a short cut you can find that will drop you off almost at the start of the level.

[Dukefrukem]

"if you have white soul tendency you may proceed" ?
Seriously what is this game? Making stuff up as they go along?

[Dukefrukem]

Since the soul cost to upgrade your stat levels is so cheap at the beginning of the game, feel free to spend them as soon as you get them. There is no sense in holding on to 4,000+ soul points that could be dropped and potentially lost while your character is still relatively weak in the early stages of the game.

I would explore part of a level, clearing out enemies, then retreat back to the nexus and spend my souls. Then I'd go back to the same level and kill the same enemies while exploring a little farther perhaps finding/opening a shortcut back to the start of the level; rinse and repeat. 2-1 is a good level to do this in as there is a short cut you can find that will drop you off almost at the start of the level.

Last question and then I'm gonna play. How do I know what level is 2-1, 1-1, 3-1 etc?

[maharahaj]

also how does this guy have his sword on fire at 6:50? how is he attacking those skeleton dudes? (insane video btw)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWi6t8Psv9w

There is a blacksmith located in level 2-1 that you can use to upgrade weapons. The Soul orbs of each boss and some sub-bosses are special orbs that can be spent at the blacksmith or various NPCs you'll find throughout the worlds to either imbune weapons with special abilities or make new spells and/or miracles with. Either the dude in the video found a flaming sword (if there is one to find, I don't recall) or he spent the orb of the boss in level 2-2 on a sword to make it flaming.

Two notes:
1) NEVER cash in boss dropped orbs for souls. Use them to forge weapons or buy spells/miracles.
4) In order to acquire all spells/miracles in the game, you need to play through it 3.5 times as certain bosses orbs (which you'll only get once a game) are required for multiple items. The official wiki is very detailed on spelling out what orbs get you what spells/miracles/special weapons.

Editted for spelling.

[maharahaj]

Last question and then I'm gonna play. How do I know what level is 2-1, 1-1, 3-1 etc?

The world's aren't specifically labeled as 1, 2 etc, (if I remember correctly). It has just become understood throughout discussions that the world on the far left (with Phalanx) is World 1-X, then go clock-wise for World's 2-X, 3-X etc. One of the arch stones is broken (it will never open), so World 5-X is on the far right.

World 1 has 4 levels, while worlds 2-5 have 3 levels each. When you beat a boss, not only will it give you its special orb, but a warp marker will appear where it died. You can use the warp marker to head back to the nexus and then back to where you killed that boss. So, once you proceed on from the dead boss's marker, we've (and the wiki) consider that the next level of that world.

When you go back to the archstone for world 1, there should be a list of two areas to warp to; one is the start of of World 1-1 and the other would be 1-2, where Phalanx was killed.

[maharahaj]

how is he attacking those skeleton dudes? (insane video btw)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWi6t8Psv9w

Those are the skeletons I was referring to that drop an obscene amount of souls when killed.

[Dukefrukem]

OK i must have sold the orb for the first boss since I dont think i have it on me.

[Blue]

"if you have white soul tendency you may proceed" ?
Seriously what is this game? Making stuff up as they go along?

Here's (http://demonssouls.wikidot.com/world-tendency) a good guide for world tendency and how to change it (though, occasionally, Atlus will do events like the one either going on now or that just wrapped where they have a pure White event for the weekend or pure Black).

Some of the areas are only accessible depending on what your tendency is. For instance, in 1-1, right at the beginning of the area to the left is a set of stairs with a locked gate that isn't open unless your tendency is pure white. I just got a sword from 3-3 (the Dragon Bone Sword or something) that I wasn't able to reach because rubble was in the way but with pure white, the rubble was gone and I could reach it. Etc. etc.

Seriously, don't worry about that stuff now. I'm about 40 hours or so in and I'm just getting around to messing with shifting that and opening new areas. I've just started figuring out the type of build that I want my guy to have to boot. The learning curve on this game is staggering and they really do just dump you in blind.

[Dukefrukem]

So if you die twice, without recovering your souls after the first death, you lose all the souls from that first life????

What a waste of time...................................nkjdgblvfjd sblj

[Dukefrukem]

This is this most complicated game I've ever played...... I just want to get to new areas without fighting the same fucking things over and over...

I just walked into a fog with a 30 foot armored dude who stabbed me once and I died. Then I lost all my souls... 4000+ and there's no way I can rcover them.

[Dukefrukem]

I pretty much wasted the last 2 hours of my life. How depressing.

[maharahaj]

So if you die twice, without recovering your souls after the first death, you lose all the souls from that first life????

Yes. Hence the reason I suggest spending souls as soon as you get them.

[Blue]

I pretty much wasted the last 2 hours of my life. How depressing.

Were you in 1-2? Sounds like the Tower Knight. I think I fought him a while in as I found him easier after a little prep and leveling.

This is one of those games where I think you really need to let go of typical tropes and just go with how it does things. I totally understand wanting to explore new areas, etc. etc. but this really is a trial-by-error type of game and depending on your build, you're going to find some levels easier than others for the outset which means you'll need to come back to 1-2 later-on in your play perhaps.

Wait until you start losing 20,000+ souls. I can't tell you the number of times I've died and lost a stupid amount of time and shut off the game out of anger. Then, like an abused spouse, I fall in love again tomorrow.

[Dukefrukem]

I'm seeing no love right now. No reward. Not fun.

[Blue]

Then it may just not be for you. The reward, for me, is being able to walk into an area I was terrified of at one point and lay waste with confidence. I love exploring a new area for the first time and jumping when I see a new enemy not knowing how I'll fare and coming out alive. Or, even, dying and dusting myself off to fight again.

Rarely do I get the sense of accomplishment in games anymore than I do with DS. There are very few times I've gotten a trophy in a game and felt I had earned it. Every one of my DS trophies feel like badges of honor and I love that.

[Dukefrukem]

I don't understand the point in exploring new areas when you need to play the same area 100 times just to get to the 1 new area. Then you need to play that new area 100 times to get to a third new area.

[Blue]

That tapers off the more you get into it. I haven't had to play an area, Nexus, area, Nexus to level-up in quite a while. Most often I can get in there and through the entire section without dying unless I get blindsided or overwhelmed. Mind you, the bosses are different beasts entirely. The 3-2 baddie Maneater took me at least a dozen times to beat but I could do the level itself without fear.

The constant in-and-out was a pretty early on thing, at least in my experience.

[Dukefrukem]

Will try again tomorrow. Too mad tonight. Not letting this game beat me so easily.

[maharahaj]

As Blue stated, it's the satisfaction you get when finally conquering a daunting area that makes the game so worthwhile. For me, I spent a lot of time just exploring all the X-1 levels, to the point where all I had to do is kill each boss. I ended up playing at least 12 hours straight without dying at one point. You'll get to a point where you can trounce through levels. Funny thing is, the bosses that seem to give everyone else a problem, Flamelurker of 2-2 and Maneater of 3-2 for example, I beat on my first try and second try respectively. Other bosses like 5-1 and 2-1 took me many, many tries. It all depends on how your play style is and how you level up.

[Blue]

You have now reached the second stage of Demon's Souls enlightenment: Rage and Pursuit.

[Grifter]

I just wish I could find a strategy guide for this damn game so I wouldn't have to switch inputs to read the Wiki every time wanted/needed some info.

[evilgoodwin]

I just wish I could find a strategy guide for this damn game so I wouldn't have to switch inputs to read the Wiki every time wanted/needed some info.

I was reading the wiki on my phone one day :P


Flaming sword = using turpentine on it. Can be bought or is dropped by mobs.

Boleteria = World 1
Stonefang Tunnel = World 2
Tower of Latria = World 3
Shrine of Storms = World 4
Valley of Defilement = World 5

Even though Patches is a huge dick, he sells really good arrows, so don't kill him, no matter how much you want to. NPC's tend to glow.

Archery with an actual bow almost makes this game unfair in your advantage, especially when killing Mind-Flayers in world 3.

Blocking is very useful with the right shield. If you can, get a Purple Flame Shield (drops from a red-eyed knight in 1-1 that you have to be pretty slick to kill). The shield blocks almost all damage, though you have to pour a lot of souls into strength to use it. Be careful, though. If a mob breaks your guard (very possible with those jerks with pickaxes in 2-1 and 2-2), you will be defenseless for a time.

Do NOT fuck with Mind-Flayers. You need to be in the zone to take one head on, as they can easily one-shot kill you: first by stunning you with a ranged attack and eating your brain while stunned as you sit there screaming in futile rage as they kill you, the other by just killing you with a ranged attack. Both are slow, so dodge-rolling is very useful.

The only way you will kill Flame Lurker (boss of 2-2) is by learning to dodge or hoping he gets stuck somewhere. Once you go through the stage the long way around to reach him (through the bug tunnels), you will be able to reach him via a dangerous, but very quick shortcut that involves careful falling down a deep shaft. Spend your souls before practicing the shortcut.

If you don't want to change a world's affinity, you can commit suicide at Nexus with no penalties. Just don't land on anyone at all. In fact, don't even try to take shortcuts by jumping off stairs. I did this once and landed on Freke, barely fell a foot and he got REALLY pissed. Luckily, I reloaded immediately and he was cool again, but I've heard stories of people accidentally hitting someone and them being hostile the rest of the game.

Read up on "The Silent Chief." If you're not careful, he will ruin your horizons forever.

Once an NPC in Nexus is dead, they don't come back to life until after you beat the game, which starts a New Game+.

After beating the game, it repeats, leaving you with your current level, souls, and equipment. All monsters will be meaner, though.

There's my 2 cents.

[Blue]

Archery with an actual bow almost makes this game unfair in your advantage, especially when killing Mind-Flayers in world 3.

I just discovered this not too long ago when facing Mind-Flayers: realized it was high-time I got myself a decent bow. Currently working on making the Sticky Compound Long Bow. Have it up to +3, just need to farm the Spiderstone (or buy 'em from the dude in 2-2) to make it.

The only way you will kill Flame Lurker (boss of 2-2) is by learning to dodge or hoping he gets stuck somewhere.

Or you could be awesome like me and beat him your first try head-on :cool:.

[Xydarc]

Xydria the Huntress lives! No easy-mode Royal for me, heh. Now I just have to remember all those tricks and exploits from the first 2 times I played...and time to dig out my CE strat guide.

[Xydarc]

I just wish I could find a strategy guide for this damn game so I wouldn't have to switch inputs to read the Wiki every time wanted/needed some info.
The only strategy guide printed was the one that came with the Deluxe Edition. The wiki and this thread are nice resources, tho.

Here is where a bunch of use started playing when DS first came out. (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/showthread.php?t=159&page=7) We were all so innocent then. Lots and lots of good info.

[evilgoodwin]

I just discovered this not too long ago when facing Mind-Flayers: realized it was high-time I got myself a decent bow. Currently working on making the Sticky Compound Long Bow. Have it up to +3, just need to farm the Spiderstone (or buy 'em from the dude in 2-2) to make it.



Or you could be awesome like me and beat him your first try head-on :cool:.

That bow is evil. The reason I put most of my souls into DEX until I can cap the damage. The best way to get spiderstone is to farm those miners in 2-2, but it's only really possible in PBWT. But so far, it works awesome at level 3.

And I would have beat him, but I zigged when I should have zagged and got stuck between a rock and another rock.

[ClannerDelta]

Flamelurker is a great deal easier with a Purple Flame Shield (or if you have PWWT the Brushwood shield). While blocking Purple Flame Shield negates 90% fire damage. Time it right and the guy's a total pussy.

I recently got back into the game. 4-2 can suck my dick. Fuck those fucking ninja shadow whatevers. :p

I am finding that heavy armor characters have no advantage at all though. Played a Temple Knight with high faith and fluted armor through most of the game last time. It was slow going and incredibly hard. Now, with a black leather using thief? It's almost child's play. Not just because I'm better, but because dodge is just 1000% more effective than mitigation. It doesn't matter if you survive the hit with 50% life or 1%, two hits still fuck you. Better to just keep leather and use a beefy shield, in my experience.

[Lon Lon Rabbit]

I am finding that heavy armor characters have no advantage at all though. Played a Temple Knight with high faith and fluted armor through most of the game last time. It was slow going and incredibly hard. Now, with a black leather using thief? It's almost child's play. Not just because I'm better, but because dodge is just 1000% more effective than mitigation. It doesn't matter if you survive the hit with 50% life or 1%, two hits still fuck you. Better to just keep leather and use a beefy shield, in my experience.

So true.

I was slowly grinding my way through the game in heavy armour and any single screw up usually meant death.

I hit a bit of a wall at flamelurker because especially as his health gets lower, he gets FAST and just does NOT stop attacking. I could never recover my stamina in enough time blocking his hits, and dodging left me staggering to my feet cos of the heavy armour.

The solution? Take off my pants!

I seriously beat him as soon as I took my pants off and my weight lowered to just below the fast roll threshold. From then on I just kept a heavy shield and chest piece, with light everything else, and the rest of the game went FAST. Finished up this weekend.

[Spigot]

I love my soul arrow vs. the Mind Flayers. I spent most of tonight in Latria trying to make it past that giant wall of death past the cell blocks. Sigh.

Two things I wish worked differently (and kind of hope are fixed in Dark Souls).

1) Let me target my spells like I can target a bow.

2) Make the lock-on of the enemies a little better (see prior point).

I died a few times tonight because my lock-on with a mind-flayer pooched out when he moved a foot back and good luck aiming spells manually...

[Xydarc]

I love my soul arrow vs. the Mind Flayers. I spent most of tonight in Latria trying to make it past that giant wall of death past the cell blocks. Sigh.

Two things I wish worked differently (and kind of hope are fixed in Dark Souls).

1) Let me target my spells like I can target a bow.

2) Make the lock-on of the enemies a little better (see prior point).

I died a few times tonight because my lock-on with a mind-flayer pooched out when he moved a foot back and good luck aiming spells manually...
The lock-on works the same for everything: spells, bows, miracles, etc. Only bows get the "sniper" view.

[Spigot]

The lock-on works the same for everything: spells, bows, miracles, etc. Only bows get the "sniper" view.That's what I mean. I want sniper view on my spells. Or at least a way to aim my spells with something resembling finesse.

[Blue]

That's what I mean. I want sniper view on my spells. Or at least a way to aim my spells with something resembling finesse.

That's one of the reasons I'm finally at the point where I need to invest more in my bow. Spells have been ridiculously helpful but against some of the tougher peeps I need to keep at a distance, they just don't cut it and my bow isn't either.

Having the ability to focus spells better would be more than welcome.

[ClannerDelta]

Finally beat the game. Man, awesome. Though, again, I'm reminded that I wouldn't be able to kill many of the bosses if I had heavy armor. :(

Still, this is definitely one of my favorite games. It's a very solid experience with a lot of replay value. I'm just ashamed it took me this long to man up. :D

I'd just like to give a shout out to the ethereal homies that helped me along the way. Your sacrifices will be remembered!

[evilgoodwin]

Certain spells, like Flame Burst, can be aimed. Just use the bow to aim, switch to magic without touching the thumb sticks, and the spell should go where you were aiming.

I had to use that tactic to blow up debris in my way during the boss of 2-3. Unfortunately, the last block of debris can't be hit with a spell, I think, so you better haul ass and hope to god you can smash it before you die horribly.

[Blue]

Certain spells, like Flame Burst, can be aimed. Just use the bow to aim, switch to magic without touching the thumb sticks, and the spell should go where you were aiming.

http://28.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lnqli6A93S1ql201ao1_500.gif

[evilgoodwin]

http://28.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lnqli6A93S1ql201ao1_500.gif

Emphasis on the 'SHOULD." Your mileage may vary, of course.

The thing that gets me about the game is how often I feel like I'm doing something completely against the developer's intent while I think "There has to be a better way. There's no WAY they wanted me to do this."

This includes me shooting down the flying jerk in 1-2 with 100 arrows, and killing the boss of 3-1 without having the boss ever move, just counter attack as I stayed in the back behind the pillar, shooting her with an arrow, and moving to the left 4 steps so she couldn't hit me with her magic. Repeat forever. :P

Archery: Expensive AND Cheap at the same time.

[ClannerDelta]

I did the Men of Dale approach to the dragon as well. I didn't realize, until playing the new character, how much of a cunt that dragon really is if you don't kill it.

[evilgoodwin]

I did the Men of Dale approach to the dragon as well. I didn't realize, until playing the new character, how much of a cunt that dragon really is if you don't kill it.

I actually did make it across the entire bridge a few times to die at the Knights and archers at the end. The last time, I made it and took out the archers with Soul Arrow. . . only to get fried because I was just right on the edge of burning demise. There was much screaming that day.

[Spigot]

Certain spells, like Flame Burst, can be aimed. Just use the bow to aim, switch to magic without touching the thumb sticks, and the spell should go where you were aiming.Yeah, I remember doing that long ago when I first played. It doesn't make it less annoying :)

I actually did make it across the entire bridge a few times to die at the Knights and archers at the end. The last time, I made it and took out the archers with Soul Arrow. . . only to get fried because I was just right on the edge of burning demise. There was much screaming that day.I have yet to take down that bloody dragon. I need to get a bow and just wipe that thing out. It is a pain to barely make it to the far side of the bridge and then get wiped out by the knights.

[maharahaj]

Me taking out the dragon at the first possible opportunity (with Soul Arrow) was the smartest and most boring 45 minutes of the game.

[evilgoodwin]

Me taking out the dragon at the first possible opportunity (with Soul Arrow) was the smartest and most boring 45 minutes of the game.

I could never hit it with Soul Arrow. Luckily, there's a bow right before the first tower. Crossbows can not be aimed, so don't bother.

With a bow, it's surprisingly easy. Stand in the middle gap on top, aim at the top of the arch that you came out of before the bridge of fun happy toasty time and draw your arrow. When the dragon's left wing straightens out, let fly and you hit the fiend in the face.

Bring 150 arrows or more. Running out and not killing it will make you scream, though it can be killed with about 80.

I was reading CoG while I killed it. The arrows may be expensive, but the amount of souls you get back will drastically make up for the investment.


As for the huge knight at the end, run past it and go around the balconies surrounding him killing archers. From there, you can lock on and hide. All you have to figure out is your Soul Arrow timing.

[Spigot]

Yeah. I ran out of arrows the first time I tried to kill it. I was sooooo mad because it was very, VERY close to dying!

[Xydarc]

Me taking out the dragon at the first possible opportunity (with Soul Arrow) was the smartest and most boring 45 minutes of the game.
There are few moments more satisfying in Demon's Souls than taking down that red bastard.

[Blue]

I honestly cannot remember if I killed him.

[Spigot]

WOO! Speaking of the red bastard, after 2 years of being stymied by the bugger, I finally took him down tonight. Woo! Now I can wander the bridge of the palace in peace!

[danhoo]

Grats Spig. Now, you might remember, there's _another_ dragon...

[menage]

WOO! Speaking of the red bastard, after 2 years of being stymied by the bugger, I finally took him down tonight. Woo! Now I can wander the bridge of the palace in peace!

I kinda missed him in the end. Place seems empty without him.

[Spigot]

Grats Spig. Now, you might remember, there's _another_ dragon...Oh yeah, I know about Red's buddy. Time to load up on another 200 arrows...

I kinda missed him in the end. Place seems empty without him.Now don't start. I had 2 years to run in terror across that bridge. I'll make due for now.

[Xydarc]

Lava Bow bitches!

Fat tongue guy is down as well. Time to work on my Sticky Compound Long Bow.

[Mr. Murphy]

I made a Royal and have once again started this game. I keep wanting to love it, but I just haven't found my way in. I'm really feeling it this time, tho.

I'm using the wiki that was linked earlier (the good one) and while it does have a page for people on their first playthrough, I'm still not entirely certain if I should be tackling 1-2 and then 1-3, or going around doing 2-1, 3-1, like that, or what.

[Spigot]

You can't do 1-3 until you've taken down an archdemon at the end of one of the other realms.

Yes, I've spent most of today and last night reading the strategy guide far more intently than expected.

[Mr. Murphy]

You can't do 1-3 until you've taken down an archdemon at the end of one of the other realms.

Yes, I've spent most of today and last night reading the strategy guide far more intently than expected.

Well sweet, can you tell me how I should be spending the first 5-10 hours of gameplay? I can't seem to find a good guide for the beginning hours of the game, everything is written to help you with the other hundred hours when you kinda know what you're doing.

Right now I'm just running around killing weak shit in 1-1.

[Spigot]

Grind skeletons in 4-1 (the shrine of storms) for a while. That's what I did. Then push through 1-2 and take down the Tower Knight (and maybe the dragon, if you have lots of arrows and patience).

I'm by no means an expert at the game. I have played a lot of the early portions a LOT but I did read a lot of the strategy guide with a closer eye than in the past and I'm seeing more tricks to things...

I'd say to ask frederec, but he's away at the moment :(

[Mr. Murphy]

Grind skeletons in 4-1 (the shrine of storms) for a while. That's what I did. Then push through 1-2 and take down the Tower Knight (and maybe the dragon, if you have lots of arrows and patience).


Those skeletons are rough! I'm pumping points into magic, trying to improve my distance spellcasting. Is there a skill or attribute that increases your spell casting speed?

[ClannerDelta]

I went to 5-1 pretty early, though if you're a caster you could probably go to 3-1 and kill the Chibi-thulus. You'll want to find the Ring of magical sharpness and Sage Freke.

[danhoo]

You could also hit 2-1, which is not too bad (mostly slower enemies). I hesitated going into world 3 for a while just because the place creeped me out. Once I got anti-magic, however, it was basically a cakewalk.

[Xydarc]

Well sweet, can you tell me how I should be spending the first 5-10 hours of gameplay? I can't seem to find a good guide for the beginning hours of the game, everything is written to help you with the other hundred hours when you kinda know what you're doing.

Right now I'm just running around killing weak shit in 1-1.
I'd complete 1-1 and 1-2. After defeating Phalanx and Tower Knight, you should have enough souls to upgrade a weapon and increase some stats. From there, I'd recommend hitting 2-1 and taking down Armored Spider. He's very easy: just hug the left side of the tunnel until you reach minimum lock-on distance, then pelt him with Soul Arrow.

The Skeletons in 4-1 are tough, but fall pretty quickly to magic and blunt weapons. Fat Guy with Bird on Head (4-1 boss) is pretty easy as well. Get on the middle level of the room, target the bird on his head, and again pelt it with Soul Arrow. Just remember to dodge the tongue and cleaver, which should be too hard.

3-1 is tricky for magic users, so tread carefully. However, freeing Sage Freke gives you access to some really nice spells. Remember to save the named souls (hard demon's soul, etc.) for the more powerful spells.
Those skeletons are rough! I'm pumping points into magic, trying to improve my distance spellcasting. Is there a skill or attribute that increases your spell casting speed?
There's no way to increase casting speed, but pumping up Magic increases damage and pumping up Intelligence increases your Mana pool and spell slots. The more spell slots you have (you can have a max of 6 slots), the more spells you can equip.

[Xydarc]

From the DAY thread:

I had a fantastic night in Demon's Souls last night.

After a couple frustrating attempts at Tower Knight, I ended up taking him solo after my blue phantom companion died. It was a good fight and he finally fell to my axe. I also had a facepalm moment when I started using the winged spear you find on the first section of the bridge (after you've smoked the red dragon of course). Spears are sweet!

Armor spider fell quickly to my +7 compound short bow. My first run to Flamelurker was cut short when I missed a jump. It took 3 tries, but he finally went down...it was an epic battle (aren't they all?):

Roll stab roll stab enchant weapon noooo blue phantom is gone move behind spine hey he's stuck arrow arrow arrow arrowX20 he's dead! WOOT!

I then jumped to 4-1, summoned 2 blue phantoms and we lay wasted to the mecha skeletons and easily beat Fat Guy with Bird. This also allowed me to freely loot the place and I started trading with Crow Girl.

With plenty of souls and upgrade stones, the Lava Bow is mine again! Once I'm able to farm some spiderstones, I will finally be able to wield the awesome Sticky Compound Long Bow.

Before calling it a night, I started my assault of 3-1. I need Sage Freke so I can get the poison cloud spell. I want to kill Miralda for her armor while PWWT is still going on.

[Spigot]

Sounds like you're nipping at my heels, Xydarc. I had a similarly awesome day of Demon's Souls. I freed Sage Freke and made it to 3-2 (woo) and attempted to beat the Adjudicator on 4-1 but gave up for the night.

And if you have Flame Burst, Miralda should go down easy. Also, Soul Ray is phenomenal. I love that spell so much, esp. for farming skellies. One hit = down.

Miralda's armour is nice, though I'm only wearing some of it. I had some other stuff that was actually a bit nicer, but the sack on my head is a point of pride now :)

[Xydarc]

I beat 3-1 and Fools Idol tonight. Also crafted a Mercury Winged Spear +1. 5-1 shall be conquered tomorrow for Leechmonger's soul and Poison Cloud will be mine.:D

Glad to see you're making good progress Spig. Hopefully you can find some blue phantoms to help you with Fat Guy with Head-Bird.

[Spigot]

Yeah. The game has finally clicked for me. I was even dreaming about it last night. That's ok, right?

The nice thing is that I'm strong/powerful enough now to not die at every step, so that's nice. I've had more deaths from bad camera shenanigans than because I was overmatched. The PWWT is nice too.

[Xydarc]

Yeah. The game has finally clicked for me. I was even dreaming about it last night. That's ok, right?

The nice thing is that I'm strong/powerful enough now to not die at every step, so that's nice. I've had more deaths from bad camera shenanigans than because I was overmatched. The PWWT is nice too.
Don't forget to get the key to Rydell's cell in 3-2, plus all the other loot on that floor. The PWWT event is nice, but I'm still not looking forward to slogging through 5-2. I'm going to do Selen's quest, then after I kill the Maiden, I'm gonna murder Selen for her sword. Or her armor. I forget which drops in PWWT.

[Spigot]

Yeah, I got that key last night.

The strategy guide is great for helping lay out what to do during tendency events.

And I think I've gone into 5-1 once in the past 2 years. I don't like what I've seen...

[Xydarc]

5-1 isn't bad, it's 5-2 and the poison swamp you have to trudge through that sucks.

I was also trying to do a little stone farming last night and remembered that stone drops are more rare in PWWT. Looks like my Sticky bow will have to wait for PBWT.

[Serapth]

5-2 is where I quit I think. Finished all 4 other levels, just got so sick of that stupid level.

[Mr. Murphy]

Game definitely clicked for me yesterday too, can't stop thinking about it. I love the way when I first enter an area or meet a new monster, it kills me ruthlessly for a while, and then a suddenly I can beat them every time because I've learned all their moves and attacks. Very satisfying.

After farming some skeletons in 4-1 for a while I moved deeper into the level and killed a big fat black demon. I used my souls (not my boss souls) to upgrade my Strength to 22 so I could use this giant flame shield I found, and my Magic is up around 23 or 24. Almost all of my points are going to Magic now, with a few in Faith and Intelligence and one in Luck (I read that 8 luck was kindof a sweet spot for rare drops).

I got attacked by a red dragon in 1-2 and ran for my life, I'm not really sure what to do about him yet. I did kill some mini-boss knight that was off to the left of the beginning of 1-1 and got some new gear tho.

I only have a few Hardstones and Sharpstones, I've been afraid to use them to upgrade my gear in case it turns out they are rare or that my starting gear isn't worth leveling up.

Is there something I can do with all my extra equipment? Right now the item holder guy has like, six crappy shields and a bunch of other random crap I didn't know what else to do with.

I have a spear and a bow now, altho I still kill almost everything with Soul Arrow.

[ClannerDelta]

Apparently I'm the odd one out. 4-x are just misery incarnate but I really enjoyed 5-x. The swamp was a lot easier with Regenerate ring and Adjudicator's Shield.

[Blue]

Apparently I'm the odd one out. 4-x are just misery incarnate but I really enjoyed 5-x. The swamp was a lot easier with Regenerate ring and Adjudicator's Shield.

Same boat. I need to get further into 5-2 and I'd rather punch myself in the face than go back.

[Serapth]

Apparently I'm the odd one out. 4-x are just misery incarnate but I really enjoyed 5-x. The swamp was a lot easier with Regenerate ring and Adjudicator's Shield.

4-x was where I went to farm for experience, so no, that level didn't bug me. :)

[Xydarc]

Game definitely clicked for me yesterday too, can't stop thinking about it. I love the way when I first enter an area or meet a new monster, it kills me ruthlessly for a while, and then a suddenly I can beat them every time because I've learned all their moves and attacks. Very satisfying.

After farming some skeletons in 4-1 for a while I moved deeper into the level and killed a big fat black demon. I used my souls (not my boss souls) to upgrade my Strength to 22 so I could use this giant flame shield I found, and my Magic is up around 23 or 24. Almost all of my points are going to Magic now, with a few in Faith and Intelligence and one in Luck (I read that 8 luck was kindof a sweet spot for rare drops).

I got attacked by a red dragon in 1-2 and ran for my life, I'm not really sure what to do about him yet. I did kill some mini-boss knight that was off to the left of the beginning of 1-1 and got some new gear tho.

I only have a few Hardstones and Sharpstones, I've been afraid to use them to upgrade my gear in case it turns out they are rare or that my starting gear isn't worth leveling up.

Is there something I can do with all my extra equipment? Right now the item holder guy has like, six crappy shields and a bunch of other random crap I didn't know what else to do with.

I have a spear and a bow now, altho I still kill almost everything with Soul Arrow.
http://demonssouls.wikidot.com/weapons

The wiki is a great source of information. It all depends on what you want from your weapons and what your stats are going to be. It sounds like you are really pumping up your magic stat, so I would look at weapons that scale off of it.

Currently, I'm working on a Mercury Winged Spear and it's at +1. Hopefully I'll be able to find some more mercurystones to get it to +5.

Don't forget to put points into Endurance. I'd argue it is probably the most important stat in Demon's Souls. Also be aware that increasing a stat beyond 40 you will start seeing diminishing returns.

To take out the red dragon, dash across the first part of the bridge and clear out the first tower of enemies. Then with your bow and ~150 arrows, stand right at the middle opening, and snipe the red bastard as he flies towards you.

[Xydarc]

Apparently I'm the odd one out. 4-x are just misery incarnate but I really enjoyed 5-x. The swamp was a lot easier with Regenerate ring and Adjudicator's Shield.
You are the odd one out.:p 5-X is almost universally reviled.

[ClannerDelta]

I just really liked the atmosphere and enemies in 5-x. So downtrodden and they had little communities. Like they weren't completely insane. It was so sad and depressing, really fit the theme of the game.

[Mr. Murphy]

http://demonssouls.wikidot.com/weapons

The wiki is a great source of information. It all depends on what you want from your weapons and what your stats are going to be. It sounds like you are really pumping up your magic stat, so I would look at weapons that scale off of it.

I love that wiki, and have read that page, but at this point in the game (ten hours in and having only played three or four of the levels) a lot of that information is completely useless since I have no context and only the vaguest plan (for example, I've never used a spell other than Soul Arrow, so it's hard to "plan ahead" for what kind of build I'm making without relevant advice from you guys). That's the real trouble (and one of the great things!) with starting a game like this - for a while, you just have to wallow around in the world, until all the information you've gleaned starts to gel.

That's why your response, and a thread like this in general, is so much more useful at this point in the game. I don't remember the last time I played a game that was primarily a one-player experience that also had such a community built around it. It reminds me of my childhood before the internet, where if you were lucky you could find two or three people who had played the same game as you, and swap tips.

I'm enjoying this so much that I'm considering making a Melee character to play parallel.

[ClannerDelta]

Mr. Murphy, you should go get yourself the Crescent Falchion +1 from 4-1. It's a great weapon that does magic damage, scales with Magic stat, and regenerates mana.

I used it all the way through the game. Loved it.

[Mr. Murphy]

Mr. Murphy, you should go get yourself the Crescent Falchion +1 from 4-1. It's a great weapon that does magic damage, scales with Magic stat, and regenerates mana.

I used it all the way through the game. Loved it.

Yeah, I picked it up last night and was using it (instead of my spear) just because it did twice as much damage - and then this morning when I was reading an FAQ on a build similar to mine, the author mentioned that if you upgrade it to +5 it regenerates MP.

I didn't notice it regenerated MP already!

[Xydarc]

I just really liked the atmosphere and enemies in 5-x. So downtrodden and they had little communities. Like they weren't completely insane. It was so sad and depressing, really fit the theme of the game.
I never thought about it that way. Good point. Still hate the zone though.;)

I love that wiki, and have read that page, but at this point in the game (ten hours in and having only played three or four of the levels) a lot of that information is completely useless since I have no context and only the vaguest plan (for example, I've never used a spell other than Soul Arrow, so it's hard to "plan ahead" for what kind of build I'm making without relevant advice from you guys). That's the real trouble (and one of the great things!) with starting a game like this - for a while, you just have to wallow around in the world, until all the information you've gleaned starts to gel.

That's why your response, and a thread like this in general, is so much more useful at this point in the game. I don't remember the last time I played a game that was primarily a one-player experience that also had such a community built around it. It reminds me of my childhood before the internet, where if you were lucky you could find two or three people who had played the same game as you, and swap tips.

I'm enjoying this so much that I'm considering making a Melee character to play parallel.
I love going back and reading through this thread and reading the Dark Souls thread. Reminds me of why I play games and hang out with gamers.

Mr. Murphy, you should go get yourself the Crescent Falchion +1 from 4-1. It's a great weapon that does magic damage, scales with Magic stat, and regenerates mana.

I used it all the way through the game. Loved it.
This. Or Istarelle if you like spears. Which can be found in 5-1 since it's PWWT.

[Xydarc]

Suffered my first invasion since starting, and of course, it happened in 1-3. Why is that the prime invasion world?

Regardless, I managed to knock the bastard off a ledge to his death. Mwa hahahaha!

[Spigot]

Adjudicator (and his goofy bird) are DOWN! Woo! I love how I can basically stroll through all of 4-1 now with nary a scratch (though I was getting a little sloppy tonight at times). I used to have a rough time even making past the initial gate.

I love Soul Ray, but I need to buy a lot more spice... or farm them at 3-1 for a while *bleh*.

[Xydarc]

I managed to solo Maneater. Thanks to my +5 Sticky Compount Long Bow, I sniped the 1st one through the fog, and managed to outlast the 2nd. I got a lucky shot in and took off the 2nd's tail.

Now it's Old Monk and then 1-4 awaits.

[evilgoodwin]

I managed to solo Maneater. Thanks to my +5 Sticky Compount Long Bow, I sniped the 1st one through the fog, and managed to outlast the 2nd. I got a lucky shot in and took off the 2nd's tail.

Now it's Old Monk and then 1-4 awaits.

Old Monk will piss you off. I got lucky and didn't have to fight a real person, but god damn, when you see the green balls appear, you better roll.

I did switch to all "magic resist" gear and stab the fucker to death with a spear, but those damn homing soul arrows made me hate everything.

I also killed Maneater the same way. I spent most of the time hiding behind the brazier in the middle and only shooting him when he landed.

God damn black phantom mind-flayers. Cost me 30k souls because I just happened to be in line of sight. . .

[jeffbax]

Are people still playing this? I thought that they cut off the servers, so I never bothered picking it up and now the sequel is out.

[Spigot]

Are people still playing this? I thought that they cut off the servers, so I never bothered picking it up and now the sequel is out.

Servers are still up and running.

The fact that Dark Souls is out has rekindled my interest in the game and it finally clicked for me. It'll probably be 2 years before I finally sink time into Dark Souls :)

[Xydarc]

Are people still playing this? I thought that they cut off the servers, so I never bothered picking it up and now the sequel is out.
There's a player in the pantheon that's played so much, he's reset his clock.

[Xydarc]

Old Monk will piss you off. I got lucky and didn't have to fight a real person, but god damn, when you see the green balls appear, you better roll.

I did switch to all "magic resist" gear and stab the fucker to death with a spear, but those damn homing soul arrows made me hate everything.

I also killed Maneater the same way. I spent most of the time hiding behind the brazier in the middle and only shooting him when he landed.

God damn black phantom mind-flayers. Cost me 30k souls because I just happened to be in line of sight. . .
I plan on taking on Old Monk online, so I should get a player.

[evilgoodwin]

I plan on taking on Old Monk online, so I should get a player.

I was online. There just wasn't anyone around to be summoned.

[Xydarc]

I was online. There just wasn't anyone around to be summoned.
Same here, it was disappointing. The BP's Soul Arrow was easily countered with the Dark Silver Shield.:)

Just killed the old king and Demonbrambt(sp?) is mine. All PWWT events are finished and King Allant awaits. Well, except for turning in the Crest of Vinland. Fucking slugs. Now to wait for PBWT and complete a few of those before taking on the final boss.

[Dukefrukem]

As Blue stated, it's the satisfaction you get when finally conquering a daunting area that makes the game so worthwhile. For me, I spent a lot of time just exploring all the X-1 levels, to the point where all I had to do is kill each boss. I ended up playing at least 12 hours straight without dying at one point. You'll get to a point where you can trounce through levels. Funny thing is, the bosses that seem to give everyone else a problem, Flamelurker of 2-2 and Maneater of 3-2 for example, I beat on my first try and second try respectively. Other bosses like 5-1 and 2-1 took me many, many tries. It all depends on how your play style is and how you level up.

I'm back at it today. So you suggest going through the X-1 episodes first? Which is essentially the first portions of each stone thingy?

[Dukefrukem]

Are people still playing this? I thought that they cut off the servers, so I never bothered picking it up and now the sequel is out.

THe servers will stay up to at least Jan 1st 2012

[Spigot]

I'm back at it today. So you suggest going through the X-1 episodes first? Which is essentially the first portions of each stone thingy?I'd do 1-1, then 1-2, then 2-1, 3-1, 4-1....

After that, I'll let you choose. I haven't pushed far enough through the second stage of most of the levels and haven't even touched 5-1 at all.

[evilgoodwin]

Personally, I'd save 1-2 for later as the dragon and blue knights/crossbowmen at the end of the bridge are a complete pain in the dick to deal with at first. World 2 is easier to handle early, in my opinion (especially if you can effectively fall down the mine shaft near where Scirvir is to get a shortcut to Flame Lurker). Shortcut saves a TON of time, but I dont' recommend it until you get through the fog all the way up to him first as it can lead to issues of escaping, I think.

3 can be rough, too, but there's lots of nice equipment to find as well as getting better magic enabled.

[maharahaj]

I'm back at it today. So you suggest going through the X-1 episodes first? Which is essentially the first portions of each stone thingy?

I would suggest 3-1 and 4-1 first. In 3-1, so long as you figure out how to properly fight the Mindflayers, the level is relatively easy and the boss is the easiest of all bosses besides Phalanx. 4-1 is a great and relatively small level with skeletons that drop massive soul amounts. You'll level up real quick if you grind the level for an hour or two.

Level 2-1 is also relatively easy and the first half of the level involves opening a shortcutl back to the starting area, but its boss, Armor Spider was by far the most difficult boss for me personally in the game. My advise would be to look up on the wiki where the boss's fog gate is and play the level up to that point, then come back when you are more powerful.

[Dukefrukem]

What does the green arrow below my stamina mean?

[Dukefrukem]

I'd do 1-1, then 1-2, then 2-1, 3-1, 4-1....

After that, I'll let you choose. I haven't pushed far enough through the second stage of most of the levels and haven't even touched 5-1 at all.

Isn't 1-2 that giant suit of armor guy?

[maharahaj]

Isn't 1-2 that giant suit of armor guy?

Yes. If you have Soul Arrow, he's a piece of cake by sniping him with it from the upper walkways.

[Blue]

What does the green arrow below my stamina mean?

I'm sleepy so I might be wrong, but that should be your Dexterity or whatever. Blocking, rolling/dodging, attacking, etc. etc.

[Dukefrukem]

Yes. If you have Soul Arrow, he's a piece of cake by sniping him with it from the upper walkways.

Gotcha. Yeh I don't have Soul Arrow nor do I even know what that is yet.

[Dukefrukem]

Ok my last question of the night. I rolled a soldier

What config should i consider?

http://demonssouls.wikidot.com/character-builds

[Spigot]

I would suggest 3-1 and 4-1 first. In 3-1, so long as you figure out how to properly fight the Mindflayers, the level is relatively easy and the boss is the easiest of all bosses besides Phalanx. 4-1 is a great and relatively small level with skeletons that drop massive soul amounts. You'll level up real quick if you grind the level for an hour or two.

Level 2-1 is also relatively easy and the first half of the level involves opening a shortcutl back to the starting area, but its boss, Armor Spider was by far the most difficult boss for me personally in the game. My advise would be to look up on the wiki where the boss's fog gate is and play the level up to that point, then come back when you are more powerful.Really? I beat Armor Spider on my first try! I am playing a Royal though, so that's probably why. I agree about grinding in 4-1 though. Those skellies are awesome for souls.

I'm also one of those freaks who somehow managed to make it to the far end of the bridge in 1-2 without killing the dragon (albeit after many, many attempts) and took down the Tower Knight a while ago. I just took the dragon down this past week.

Gotcha. Yeh I don't have Soul Arrow nor do I even know what that is yet.Soul Arrow is a spell that the Royal class starts with and that you can buy from the Apprentice otherwise. You'll need a focus to be able to cast it if you don't have one.

I rely on Soul Arrow and Soul Ray so much I can't imagine playing the game without them. I blast things from a distance all the time.

[Dukefrukem]

Holy crap you can kill that Dragon that flies over the bridge??

[evilgoodwin]

Holy crap you can kill that Dragon that flies over the bridge??

Yes. You can kill EVERYTHING in this game.

[Spigot]

Holy crap you can kill that Dragon that flies over the bridge??Yeah. Get a bow and about 150-200 arrows, park yourself on the first parapet after you dash across the bridge and just plink away at him for a half an hour or so until he dies. Not the most interesting fight, by far, but it's so satisfying when he finally goes down.

[maharahaj]

Really? I beat Armor Spider on my first try! I am playing a Royal though, so that's probably why. I agree about grinding in 4-1 though. Those skellies are awesome for souls.

I'm also one of those freaks who somehow managed to make it to the far end of the bridge in 1-2 without killing the dragon (albeit after many, many attempts) and took down the Tower Knight a while ago. I just took the dragon down this past week.

Soul Arrow is a spell that the Royal class starts with and that you can buy from the Apprentice otherwise. You'll need a focus to be able to cast it if you don't have one.

I rely on Soul Arrow and Soul Ray so much I can't imagine playing the game without them. I blast things from a distance all the time.

Armor Spider was the bane of my existence. He must have killed me 8 or more times before I was able to kill him and when I did, it was either with the sticky bow or lava bow (I forget) from the far left corner of the tunnel leading to his lair. Every other time, he would kill me before I could even get to him. And I was playing as a Royal; I couldn't get close enough to him to hit him with Soul Arrow.

Like you, I can't imagine playing the game as anything but a Royal. I used Soul Arrow for probably 2/3's of all my kills in the game. It is that good of an attack. When Dark Souls drops to $25 or $30, I plan to play as a pyromancer, the supposed Royal class of that game.

[evilgoodwin]

Armor Spider was the bane of my existence. He must have killed me 8 or more times before I was able to kill him and when I did, it was either with the sticky bow or fire bow (I forget) from the far left corner of the tunnel leading to his lair. Every other time, he would kill me before I could even get to him. And I was playing as a Royal; I couldn't get close enough to him to hit him with Soul Arrow.

Like you, I can't imagine playing the game as anything but a Royal. I used Soul Arrow for probably 2/3's of all my kills in the game. It is that good of an attack. When Dark Souls drops to $25 or $30, I plan to play as a pyromancer, the supposed Royal class of that game.

Soul Ray was my favorite. Just back up and let the enemies cluster. One button = 5 dead dudes.

[maharahaj]

Soul Ray was my favorite. Just back up and let the enemies cluster. One button = 5 dead dudes.

I had Soul Ray, but I think I picked it up late in the game; thereby I don't recall using it much. Then, I got the almighty Firestorm spell and well....that spell is just plain unfair :D

[ClannerDelta]

Man, even on my "magic" character I used my Falchion far more than I used magic. I have to get so close to lock on that I can't help buy roll in and cut some people up. :p

[Spigot]

I've gotten very good at baiting baddies close enough to lock on and then dancing back. It would be nice if the range for lock-on was a bit longer or if you could target a la a bow, but you come up with strategies to overcome the shortcomings, and that is what Demon's Souls is all about.

[ClannerDelta]

I've gotten very good at baiting baddies close enough to lock on and then dancing back. It would be nice if the range for lock-on was a bit longer or if you could target a la a bow, but you come up with strategies to overcome the shortcomings, and that is what Demon's Souls is all about.

Oh, I agree, just that my solutions come at the edge of a sword and not the purifying inferno of a fireball. ;)

I think for my third time through, I'll go dex/str and mix bow with some other weapon. Any suggestions? I've done the Mace, Falchion, and Mirdan hammer.

Maybe Spear?

[Xydarc]

Sharp Uchigatana +5.

[Codicier]

Yeah, katana it up as a Wanderer like I did. :D

Bonus points for two handing it.

[frederec]

You people are making me wonder what my character looked like when I finished the game (got platinum). I know I had the classic Sticky Compound Long Bow +5 (and maxed Dex), but I also had some interesting swords, probably the Sharp Uchigatana +5 as mentioned above.

I just remember right at the end absolutely racing through levels, occasionally stopping to slaughter enemies and bosses. It was an amazing feeling to fearlessly run and kill everything in a game that started off with me being so timid, paranoid, and dead over and over again.

[Xydarc]

My Uchi is still sitting at +2 as I did not get any Bladestone chunks to drop during the PWWT event. My Sticky bow is at +5 and rocks. I'm using the Dark Silver Shield Garl Vinland drops in 5-4.

[frederec]

I think I remember bladestone being the hardest to get. I think I finally got it when doing soul runs on black phantom skeletons in 4-2 that only show up when its in pure black. That was an awesome way to get crazy experience.

[Xydarc]

I think I remember bladestone being the hardest to get. I think I finally got it when doing soul runs on black phantom skeletons in 4-2 that only show up when its in pure black. That was an awesome way to get crazy experience.
Soulsucker is a great spell. Those black skellys are a bitch though.

[frederec]

Soulsucker is a great spell. Those black skellys are a bitch though.

Not if you backstab them and they never see you. That's the way to do it.

[Dukefrukem]

So if I'm a soldier, can I not use Soul Arrow?

[Dukefrukem]

Yeh I think I'm done with this game. I feel like an idiot playing it.

[Blue]

So if I'm a soldier, can I not use Soul Arrow?

I'm pretty sure any class can use anything - class just determines your starting stats and equipment and the like. Could be incorrect on that. But, if I remember right, I started off as a Hunter or whatever so I could use a bow better and slowly worked magic into my build.

EDIT: Yeah, just checked (http://demonssouls.wikidot.com/classes). You can eventually upgrade your stats so you can use any item/armor/spell.

[maharahaj]

So if I'm a soldier, can I not use Soul Arrow?

You can; you need to equip a catalyst staff as your weapon, have purchased the spell and have a magic slot to install the spell into.

[Dukefrukem]

Just so frustrated.... All i have been doing was going through 1-1 over and over and over again. I tried 2-1 and it just appears to be a cliff that i fall to my death over. 3-1 has some magic guy who paralyzes me and sucks the life out of me and 4-1 the skeleton dudes roll all over me... i can't do anything... what are you supposed to do after playin 1-1? THere's nothing to DO!!!

[Blue]

Wait...where is this cliff in 2-1 that you keep falling off of?

[Dukefrukem]

Wait...where is this cliff in 2-1 that you keep falling off of?

Its like 100 feet from the starting point.

[ClannerDelta]

Wait...where is this cliff in 2-1 that you keep falling off of?

I'm really confused here too. What cliff are you talking about? There's a bridge and then a lot of indoors stuff.

Its like 100 feet from the starting point.

Wait, are you going up the stairs from the archstone and just walking straight? There's a bridge right beside the stairs, you cross it.

[Blue]

Its like 100 feet from the starting point.

My advice is: turn around :).

[Dukefrukem]

I'm really confused here too. What cliff are you talking about? There's a bridge and then a lot of indoors stuff.



Wait, are you going up the stairs from the archstone and just walking straight? There's a bridge right beside the stairs, you cross it.

Haha. Just found it. Was going the wrong way i guess.

[Dukefrukem]

Still frustrated but at least i have a new place to explore.

[Spigot]

I'd probably avoid 3-1 if you have no ranged attack yet, Duke. The octopus guards are pretty deadly if you get up close.

As for the skellies in 4-1, keep that shield up and dodge, dodge, dodge.

If you're having a lot of trouble playing as a soldier, I'd strongly suggest just restarting as a Royal. You'll have Soul Arrow to begin with and life will be much, much more pleasant :)

[Xydarc]

Dammit, PBWT isn't working for me. I think all the players killing the BPs and bosses are keeping the worlds neutral. I've had to suicide in order to get tendency to go Black.

Miralda and Scirvir are down, Selen is next.

[frederec]

Dammit, PBWT isn't working for me. I think all the players killing the BPs and bosses are keeping the worlds neutral. I've had to suicide in order to get tendency to go Black.

Miralda and Scirvir are down, Selen is next.

This is why at a certain point I played pretty exclusively offline. A lot of what I was after was world tendency dependent, and I didn't want other people screwing it up.

[Serapth]

My game is being weird as I killed the knight on the tower and I could see the dragon, went back to the first merchant for arrows and he was gone? Went down to the area under the bridge and there is his tail... WTF?

Also, where is the nearest fire to Blighttown, it's a pain in the ass getting there from either direction.


Oh and I have to say, the forest with the stone giants is laughably easy with a pyro character. Great farming location

Damn, wrong forum

[Xydarc]

My game is being weird as I killed the knight on the tower and I could see the dragon, went back to the first merchant for arrows and he was gone? Went down to the area under the bridge and there is his tail... WTF?

Also, where is the nearest fire to Blighttown, it's a pain in the ass getting there from either direction.


Oh and I have to say, the forest with the stone giants is laughably easy with a pyro character. Great farming location

Damn, wrong forum
The Dark Souls thread is thisaway ---> http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/showthread.php?t=24563

Selen is down and Blind is mine. Took care of False King and I got my Character Tendency high enough to get the Friend Ring from the Monumental. Lord Rydell is the last PBWT and then I wanna see if I can get some Bladestone Chunks to drop from the skellys in 4-2.

[Xydarc]

After assisting a bunch of players with False King, I finished the game and chose the "evil" ending.

Man I had forgotten how much fun Demon's Souls is.

[menage]

So what did i do. I put this into my PS3 and before i knew it it was 4.00 o clock.

Already killed Phalanx, I never played a Royal but dammit that soul arrow is overpowered, makes the whole start 10 times easier.

[Blue]

I don't know if I would call Soul Arrow overpowered. I'd more say that it's akin to starting the game on Normal as opposed to Why God.

[ClannerDelta]

I don't know if I would call Soul Arrow overpowered. I'd more say that it's akin to starting the game on Normal as opposed to Why God.

Not really, the game isn't all that hard at the start. You also find a considerable amount of Moon Grass. Soul Arrow completely trivializes a lot of fights. That, in itself, isn't much of an issue. The Royal also starts with the Fragrant Ring, allowing you to dodge the early game's focus on careful choices.

Magic is really, really powerful in Demon's Souls. I think that's why you saw a lot of the indirect nerfs (like difficulty to acquire the spells, etc.) in Dark Souls and the retention of the awful lock on mechanics.

[Blue]

I was being (mostly) facetious :).

[menage]

I don't know if I would call Soul Arrow overpowered. I'd more say that it's akin to starting the game on Normal as opposed to Why God.

True, just one shotting enemies form a distance and getting to do it a lot feels a lot different then going knight melee for the first time. I'm blasting through this no sweat now. I really had major troubles with my first build. More exciting yes, but also a lot slower.

[Blue]

Yeah, I can't remember what I did for my first build but I couldn't mesh well with it for whatever reason. I rolled a Hunter next and it was a much better fit for me. Still had some Phalanx trouble, but I think I was trying to play the game all barbarian-like still and after I figured out the mechanics, it was less painful.

[Codicier]

http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/demons-souls-servers-staying-online-into-the-foreseeable-futur/

And there was much rejoicing! :D

[Xerxes]

So Dark Souls isn't really a sequel to this game?

[Serapth]

So Dark Souls isn't really a sequel to this game?

The story is so remarkably incomprehensible as to make this matter moot.

Personally, I think I would prefer Dark Souls if they took the servers offline! Multiplayer is just a haven for douchebags and assholes.

As much as I love getting raided 90% of the way through a hard level by same fucking build using the exact same fucking equipment and tactics, or having to fucking click around 100 spammed messages to activate a lever, or the fact 50% of messages are bullshit, rendering the 50% that arent useless... I mean, yeah, multiplayer is perfect.

[Hawkzombie]

You know you can just make your PS3 go offline manually :p

[LarsenNET]

Thread resurrection!

Demon's Souls will be on sale as a PSN download (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2013/01/03/download-demons-souls-on-psn-tuesday/) Tuesday for $19.99.

Also to celebrate, a Pure White World Tendency event from January 8th to 14th. I never got into worrying about World Tendency. Remind me why I should care, is there a write up on how I can get all of the Pure white items or encounters? I believe I'm sitting at the Nexus just after finishing the main game.

[Gorvi]

Certain areas will open up when the tendency is pure white or pure black, enemies will be easier or harder respectively, and I think in pure black you'll encounter some phantoms you normally wouldn't.

[menage]

And there's something with larvea type things as well in pure black I thought.

[Gorvi]

I think you're right. Is it that they give more souls or that there are more of them?

[Spigot]

Hmm. I lost my save back when my old PS3 died but maybe this will give me a reason to jump back. Sigh.

[Gorvi]

Hmm. I lost my save back when my old PS3 died but maybe this will give me a reason to jump back. Sigh.
Same. I started again but was so rusty I just sucked. With as much Dark Souls as I've played recently I'm really tempted to go back and see how Demon's compares after all this time.

[Spigot]

Same. I started again but was so rusty I just sucked. With as much Dark Souls as I've played recently I'm really tempted to go back and see how Demon's compares after all this time.
I was so happy last time. I actually made it to the second stage of the asylum and had a character who didn't die every 3 feet.

Sigh.

[jpublic]

Every time I think about playing this, I remember undodgable lasers from out of the darkness, and put it back on the shelf.

[Gorvi]

Oh, they're dodge-able. I think you just have to listen for some audio cues or something. Damn it's been a while.