12 Essential Dark Souls Activities To Complete Before Ng+

Dark Souls, the critically acclaimed action role-playing game series, is notorious for its punishing difficulty and intricate world design. As players delve into the dark and foreboding landscapes, they encounter epic boss battles, intriguing NPC interactions, and hidden secrets waiting to be unlocked. In order to fully immerse yourself in the twisted realm of Dark Souls, there are 12 essential activities that must be completed before embarking on the challenging New Game+ mode. From slaying mighty dragons to unraveling twisted mysteries, these tasks will test your skills, unveil the game's rich lore, and reward you with invaluable treasures. Are you ready to face the darkness head-on and conquer these essential Dark Souls activities?

Acquire all unique weapons and armor sets

Dark Souls is known for its challenging gameplay and extensive world, which is why it's no surprise that many players want to ensure they don't miss anything before moving on to New Game Plus (NG+). One important aspect of the game is acquiring all the unique weapons and armor sets, as they often come with special abilities or stat bonuses that can greatly enhance your character's effectiveness in combat. Here are some things you should consider doing before starting NG+ to ensure you have all the unique gear the game has to offer.

• Explore Every Area Thoroughly: Dark Souls is a game that rewards exploration, so it's crucial to take your time and thoroughly search each area for hidden paths, secret rooms, and well-guarded chests. Unique weapons and armor sets are often found in these hidden areas, so make sure to check every nook and cranny. Use items like the Prism Stones to check for hidden paths or illusory walls, as they can lead you to valuable loot.
• Complete NPC Questlines: Throughout your journey, you'll encounter various non-playable characters (NPCs) with their own stories and questlines. Some of these NPCs can reward you with unique weapons or armor sets if you complete their quests successfully. Make sure to exhaust their dialogue options and follow their instructions carefully to unlock these rewards. Keep in mind that some questlines may have specific requirements or time limits, so it's important to pay close attention to the NPCs' dialogue and behavior.
• Defeat Optional Bosses: Dark Souls features many optional bosses that guard powerful weapons or armor sets. These bosses are often hidden or require specific steps to be unlocked. It's worth researching their locations or conditions beforehand to ensure you don't miss out on any unique gear. Additionally, some bosses drop boss weapons when defeated. These weapons are unique and often come with special movesets or abilities that can significantly impact your playstyle, so be sure to defeat as many optional bosses as possible.
• Join Covenants: Covenants are special factions that offer various benefits and rewards in Dark Souls. Some covenants provide access to unique weapons or armor sets that can't be obtained through any other means. Make sure to join every covenant you come across and fulfill their respective requirements to receive these exclusive rewards. Keep in mind that some covenants have specific tasks or conditions you need to meet to progress, so pay attention to covenant leaders' dialogue and act accordingly.
• Trade with Crow: In Dark Souls, there is a crow located in the Painted World of Ariamis that likes to collect shiny items. By trading specific items with the crow, you can obtain rare or unique weapons and armor sets. Some of these items can only be found in specific locations or dropped by certain enemies, so it's important to keep an eye out for them during your playthrough. Experiment with different item trades to ensure you acquire all the unique gear the crow has to offer.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you acquire all the unique weapons and armor sets in Dark Souls before moving on to NG+. Remember to thoroughly explore every area, complete NPC questlines, defeat optional bosses, join covenants, and trade with the crow in the Painted World of Ariamis. Doing so will not only enhance your character's capabilities but also provide a more fulfilling and complete gaming experience. Good luck, and may the flames guide your way!

Defeat all bosses and mini-bosses

Defeating all bosses and mini-bosses is one of the important tasks to complete before starting a New Game Plus (NG+) in Dark Souls. By defeating these bosses and mini-bosses, players can obtain valuable rewards, upgrade their equipment, and progress further in the game. Here are some of the notable bosses and mini-bosses that players should defeat before facing NG+.

• Gwyn, Lord of Cinder: The final boss of the game, Gwyn, Lord of Cinder, should be defeated to complete the main storyline. He is a formidable opponent and requires precise timing and strategy to defeat. Once defeated, players can link the First Flame and start NG+.
• Four Kings: The Four Kings are one of the toughest bosses in Dark Souls. They are found in the Abyss and must be defeated to acquire the Lordvessel. Their fast and damaging attacks make this battle a challenging one. Defeating them grants access to the final areas of the game.
• Ornstein and Smough: This iconic boss battle takes place in Anor Londo. Ornstein and Smough are a duo of powerful adversaries and defeating them allows players to acquire the Lordvessel. This battle requires careful positioning and choosing the right time to attack to emerge victorious.
• Artorias the Abysswalker: Artorias is a mini-boss found in the DLC area of Dark Souls, the Artorias of the Abyss. Defeating him grants access to new areas and additional bosses. Artorias is known for his quick and aggressive attacks, and players will need to be on their toes to defeat this formidable opponent.
• Black Dragon Kalameet: Another optional boss in the Artorias of the Abyss DLC, Kalameet is one of the most challenging bosses in the game. With his powerful and varied moveset, he demands precise timing and patience. Defeating Kalameet rewards players with the Calamity Ring, a powerful item in NG+.
• Manus, Father of the Abyss: Manus is the final boss of the Artorias of the Abyss DLC and one of the toughest bosses in Dark Souls. He possesses extremely powerful attacks and can be a formidable adversary. Defeating him grants players the soul of Manus, which can be traded for powerful weapons.
• Mini-bosses: Throughout the game, there are various mini-bosses that players should defeat for special rewards and unique items. These include the Black Knights, Havel the Rock, and the Sanctuary Guardian. Defeating these mini-bosses provides valuable souls and potentially rare equipment.

By defeating all bosses and mini-bosses, players will have a stronger character and better equipment for NG+. They will also have experienced some of the toughest challenges the game has to offer. It is important to thoroughly explore each area and discover all the bosses and mini-bosses to ensure a successful NG+ playthrough.

Collect all spells and pyromancies

Dark Souls is notorious for its challenging gameplay and intricate world design. Before diving into New Game Plus (NG+), it’s essential to make sure you’ve collected all the spells and pyromancies available to your character. Not only will this bolster your abilities and options for future playthroughs, but it will also enhance your overall Dark Souls experience. In this article, we’ll outline some essential steps you can take to collect all spells and pyromancies before starting NG+.

• Explore all areas thoroughly: Dark Souls is a game that rewards players who explore every nook and cranny. Many spells and pyromancies are hidden away in secret areas or require specific events to occur before becoming accessible. Make sure to thoroughly explore each zone in the game and keep an eye out for hidden passages or items that may contain new spells or pyromancies.
• Rescue and interact with NPCs: Throughout your journey in Dark Souls, you’ll encounter various non-playable characters (NPCs) who can teach you new spells or pyromancies. Some of them may require rescuing from dangerous areas, while others can be found in safe locations. Interact with these NPCs and fulfill their specific requirements to unlock new abilities.
• Join covenants and progress through their ranks: Covenants are factions in Dark Souls that offer unique spells and pyromancies as rewards for allegiance and dedication. Look for hidden areas or NPCs that represent different covenants and join them to gain access to their exclusive spells and pyromancies. Remember to progress through the ranks of these covenants by offering certain items or completing specific tasks to unlock higher-tier spells and pyromancies.
• Defeat challenging bosses and mini-bosses: Some spells and pyromancies are rewards for defeating specific bosses or mini-bosses. These encounters are often difficult and require careful planning and skill to overcome. Be sure to research which bosses and mini-bosses drop spells or pyromancies and make defeating them a priority.
• Trade with specific NPCs: Certain NPCs in Dark Souls are willing to trade unique spells or pyromancies for specific items or souls. Explore the world, collect rare items, and amass souls to have trading options available. Find these trade-friendly NPCs and offer them the required items or souls to acquire new spells and pyromancies.
• Experiment with different playstyles and character builds: Dark Souls offers a wide range of character builds and playstyles. Each build has access to specific spells and pyromancies that suit its strengths and weaknesses. To collect all the spells and pyromancies, try creating different characters and experimenting with different playstyles. This will grant you access to a wider range of abilities and spells.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to collecting all the spells and pyromancies available in Dark Souls. Remember that some spells and pyromancies may require multiple playthroughs or specific choices during character creation. Keep exploring, interacting with NPCs, joining covenants, and defeating challenging enemies to uncover the vast arsenal of spells and pyromancies that Dark Souls has to offer. Good luck on your journey!

Complete all NPC questlines

Dark Souls is known for its challenging gameplay, intricate lore, and mysterious characters. As you progress through the game, you will encounter various non-playable characters (NPCs) who have their own stories and quests. These NPC questlines often provide valuable rewards and insights into the game's lore. Before starting a New Game Plus (NG+), it's worth completing all NPC questlines to fully experience everything Dark Souls has to offer.

Siegmeyer of Catarina

Siegmeyer is a jolly knight from Catarina who can be found at various locations throughout the game. His questline revolves around his insatiable desire for adventure and his constant need for assistance. By helping him out in specific situations, you can progress his questline until its conclusion. Completing Siegmeyer's questline rewards you with the coveted "Catarina Set" armor, which provides excellent defense against physical attacks.

Solaire of Astora

Solaire is arguably one of the most beloved characters in Dark Souls. He is an optimistic and sun-worshipping warrior who aids the player in their journey. Solaire's questline involves finding his summon sign throughout the game and assisting him during certain boss fights. If you manage to complete his questline, you'll acquire the "Sunlight Medal" and gain the ability to summon Solaire for assistance in future playthroughs.

Griggs of Vinheim

Griggs is a sorcerer who can be rescued from a locked cage in Lower Undead Burg. After rescuing him, he will move to Firelink Shrine and sell sorceries to the player. As his questline progresses, he will eventually become a merchant in Sen's Fortress, selling more powerful spells. Additionally, completing Griggs' questline rewards you with the "Bellowing Dragoncrest Ring," which boosts the power of sorceries.

Laurentius of the Great Swamp

Laurentius is a pyromancer who can be found in the Depths, trapped and surrounded by toxic enemies. By rescuing him and bringing him back to Firelink Shrine, he will offer to teach you advanced pyromancies. However, as his hunger for powerful pyromancies grows, he may begin to become consumed by the dark side of his craft. Completing Laurentius' questline provides access to stronger pyromancies and the "Pyromancy Flame +10."

Big Hat Logan

Big Hat Logan is a renowned sorcerer who can be initially found in Sen's Fortress, locked in a cage. By rescuing him and helping him with his research, he will move to The Duke's Archives and become a valuable merchant for sorceries. Completing Big Hat Logan's questline awards you with the "Logan's Catalyst," a powerful catalyst that scales well with intelligence.

These are just a few examples of the many NPC questlines in Dark Souls. Each questline has its own unique story and rewards that can significantly enhance your gameplay experience. Before venturing into NG+, take the time to explore the world and interact with these memorable characters. By completing their quests, you'll not only gain powerful items but also delve deeper into the rich lore of Dark Souls.

Discover all secret areas and hidden pathways

Dark Souls is a game known for its challenging combat, intricate level design, and hidden secrets. As players prepare to enter New Game Plus (NG+), there are a few key things they should consider doing before moving on to the next playthrough. One of the most important tasks is to discover all secret areas and hidden pathways in the game.

Exploring every nook and cranny of Lordran is crucial for any Dark Souls player, as there are many secret areas that contain valuable treasures, unique NPCs, or even entire new sections of the game. These hidden areas often require solving puzzles, finding hidden keys, or meeting specific requirements, making the journey even more rewarding.

One of the most iconic secret areas in Dark Souls is the Painted World of Ariamis. To access this hidden world, players need to obtain a peculiar doll from an NPC in Anor Londo and return to the Undead Asylum to open a hidden passage. Once inside, they will find themselves in a snowy, desolate land filled with powerful enemies and valuable loot.

Another secret area that players should not miss is Ash Lake. To reach this hidden paradise, players need to find the Great Hollow in Blighttown, navigate through treacherous platforms, and defeat monstrous enemies. In Ash Lake, players will discover a breathtaking landscape with giant everlasting trees and encounter a powerful dragon that drops unique items when defeated.

In addition to hidden areas, players should also strive to find all the hidden pathways in the game. These pathways often lead to shortcuts or secret items that can greatly aid in the player's journey. For example, in the Undead Burg, there is a hidden pathway behind an illusory wall that leads to the Darkroot Garden. This shortcut allows players to bypass several tough enemies and makes traversing the area much easier.

Finding these secret areas and hidden pathways not only provides valuable rewards but also adds depth and richness to the Dark Souls experience. Exploring these hidden parts of Lordran allows players to uncover the lore and history of the game world, providing a more immersive and satisfying gaming experience.

Before entering NG+, it is important for players to take the time to thoroughly explore and discover all the secret areas and hidden pathways in Dark Souls. Doing so will not only enhance their current playthrough but also prepare them for the challenges that await in the next game cycle. So grab your torch, equip your best gear, and venture forth into the darkness to uncover all the hidden secrets that Dark Souls has to offer.

Upgrade all weapons and armor to maximum level

Dark Souls is a challenging game that requires players to strategize and plan their actions carefully. One important aspect of the game is upgrading weapons and armor to their maximum level. This can greatly improve a player's chances of survival in the game's brutal world. So, before venturing into New Game Plus (NG+), it is vital to upgrade all weapons and armor to their maximum levels.

Upgrading weapons and armor in Dark Souls involves using various resources, such as titanite shards, titanite chunks, and titanite slabs. These resources can be found throughout the game's world, either as pickups or through defeating certain enemies. It is important to explore every nook and cranny of the game's map to ensure that no valuable resources are missed.

To upgrade a weapon or armor piece, players must find a blacksmith who is capable of performing the upgrades. There are several blacksmiths scattered throughout the game, each with their own specialty. It is important to find a blacksmith who specializes in the type of weapons or armor that the player wants to upgrade.

Once the player has gathered the necessary resources and found a suitable blacksmith, they can begin the upgrading process. Each upgrade level requires a specific number of resources, and the player must have enough of each type to proceed. It is advisable to stock up on these resources before attempting to upgrade, as running out can be frustrating and time-consuming.

Upgrading weapons and armor provides several benefits. Firstly, it increases their base damage or defense stats, making them more effective in combat. This can be crucial in difficult boss fights or in areas with tough enemies. Additionally, some weapons and armor pieces have special abilities or effects that are unlocked at higher upgrade levels. These can be invaluable in certain situations, such as resisting elemental damage or inflicting status effects on enemies.

By upgrading all weapons and armor to their maximum levels before NG+, players can vastly improve their chances of survival. The increased damage or defense provided by the upgraded equipment can make a significant difference in the face of the game's challenging enemies. Additionally, having access to special abilities or effects can give players an edge in difficult situations.

In conclusion, upgrading all weapons and armor to their maximum levels is a crucial step before venturing into NG+ in Dark Souls. It requires gathering the necessary resources, locating a suitable blacksmith, and investing time and effort into the upgrading process. However, the benefits of upgraded equipment, such as increased damage or defense and access to special abilities, are well worth the investment. So, before diving into NG+, take the time to upgrade your equipment to its full potential and prepare yourself for the challenges that lie ahead.

Obtain all covenant rewards

In Dark Souls, before embarking on a journey into New Game Plus (NG+), there are several things you can do to maximize your character's progression and obtain all the covenant rewards. Covenants are factions you can join throughout the game, each with its own unique rewards. Here are some steps you can take to ensure you've obtained all the covenant rewards before advancing to NG+.

• Join all the Covenants: Make sure to join all the covenants available to you in your current playthrough. These include the Way of White, Princess's Guard, Warrior of Sunlight, Darkwraith, Forest Hunter, Gravelord Servant, Path of the Dragon, and Blade of the Darkmoon covenants. Each of these covenants has specific rewards that can be earned by fulfilling certain requirements.
• Complete Covenant Questlines: Many covenants have questlines associated with them, where you must fulfill specific tasks or objectives to progress and unlock rewards. For example, in the Warrior of Sunlight covenant, you must offer a certain number of Sunlight Medals to reach higher ranks and receive greater rewards. Similarly, the Darkwraith covenant requires you to collect a specific number of humanity items called "humanity," which can be used to rank up and obtain rewards. It's crucial to complete these questlines before entering NG+ as progress may reset.
• Farm Covenant Items: Some covenant rewards can only be obtained by farming specific enemies or locations. For instance, the Forest Hunter covenant rewards can be obtained by defeating invaders in the Darkroot Garden or by farming the NPCs found in the area. The Blade of the Darkmoon requires collecting Souvenirs of Reprisal, which can be obtained by invading and defeating members of other covenants. Make sure to allocate enough time to farm these items before moving on to NG+.
• Offer Covenant Items: Once you have acquired the necessary covenant items, offer them to the respective covenant leaders to increase your rank and unlock rewards. This can be done by speaking to the covenant leader or using specific items, such as humanity or items obtained from invasions. Pay attention to the requirements for each covenant and ensure you meet them before progressing to NG+, as some rewards may not be obtainable afterward.
• Obtain Unique Covenant Spells and Weapons: Many covenants offer unique spells and weapons as rewards for reaching higher ranks. These items are often powerful and can greatly enhance your character's playstyle. Examples include the Darkmoon Blade miracle from the Blade of the Darkmoon covenant or the Chaos Fireball pyromancy from the Chaos Servant covenant. Take the time to unlock these unique spells and weapons to bolster your character's arsenal before entering NG+.

By following these steps and completing all covenant questlines, farming necessary items, and offering them to the respective covenant leaders, you can ensure you've obtained all the covenant rewards before venturing into NG+. This will grant you access to powerful spells, weapons, and abilities that can give you a significant advantage in the next playthrough. So make the most of your current playthrough and seize the opportunity to collect all the covenant rewards before your journey continues in NG+.

Explore all optional areas and dungeons, such as Ash Lake and Painted World

Dark Souls is known for its challenging gameplay and deep, rich world. Before starting a new game in New Game Plus (NG+), it's worth taking the time to explore all of the optional areas and dungeons that the game has to offer. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of these areas, including Ash Lake and the Painted World, and discuss why they should be on your to-do list before moving on to NG+.

One of the most iconic optional areas in Dark Souls is Ash Lake. This hidden gem is located at the bottom of the Great Hollow in Blighttown. To access Ash Lake, players must first find the secret passage in the Great Hollow and descend to the very bottom. Once there, they will be greeted by a breathtaking sight - an expansive, ancient lake with towering, arching trees. Exploring Ash Lake allows players to delve deeper into the lore of Dark Souls and discover remnants of an ancient civilization. Additionally, it rewards players with valuable items and unique enemies to challenge.

Another optional area that shouldn't be missed is the Painted World of Ariamis. To access this mysterious world, players must obtain the Peculiar Doll from the Northern Undead Asylum, which can be found by returning to the starting area after obtaining the "Master Key" as a starting gift. With the doll in hand, players can interact with a painting in Anor Londo and be transported to the Painted World. This snow-covered, grotesque world offers a new set of enemies, challenging bosses, and unique loot. Exploring the Painted World provides a fresh and captivating experience that shouldn't be overlooked.

In addition to these optional areas, there are numerous other dungeons and locations in Dark Souls that offer their own unique challenges and rewards. From the treacherous depths of the Tomb of the Giants to the hauntingly beautiful Oolacile Township in the Artorias of the Abyss DLC, there are plenty of places waiting to be discovered. Each area offers new enemies to conquer, secrets to uncover, and powerful items to obtain. By exploring these optional areas before heading to NG+, players can gain an advantage by acquiring powerful gear and leveling up further.

Furthermore, taking the time to fully explore the game world before moving on to NG+ allows players to immerse themselves in the lore and narrative of Dark Souls. From the narrative-rich dialogue to the hidden item descriptions, the game is brimming with story elements that can be easily overlooked if players rush through. By thoroughly exploring each area, players can gain a deeper understanding of the game's world and discover intriguing connections between characters and locations.

In conclusion, there are several optional areas and dungeons in Dark Souls that are worth exploring before starting NG+. From the vast and ancient beauty of Ash Lake to the eerie and foreboding Painted World of Ariamis, each area offers its own unique challenges and rewards. By taking the time to fully explore these areas, players can gain an advantage through acquiring powerful gear, leveling up further, and immersing themselves in the rich lore and narrative of the game. So, before embarking on NG+, make sure to delve into these optional areas and uncover all that Dark Souls has to offer.

Complete all NPC sidequests

Dark Souls is a challenging game that offers players a vast and immersive world to explore. Before starting NG+, it's worth taking the time to complete all NPC sidequests in order to fully experience the depth of the game's storytelling and world-building. Here are some important NPC sidequests to complete before moving on to NG+.

• Siegmeyer of Catarina: Throughout your journey, you will encounter Siegmeyer in various locations. By helping him with his quests, you will uncover a touching story of bravery and companionship. Make sure to assist him whenever you come across him to see his story through to its conclusion.
• Solaire of Astora: Solaire is perhaps one of the most beloved characters in Dark Souls. By helping him during certain encounters and not betraying his trust, you can ensure a positive outcome for him. His storyline adds depth to the game's lore and offers a glimmer of hope in the gloomy world of Dark Souls.
• Big Hat Logan: Logan is a powerful sorcerer who plays a significant role in the game's magic system. By completing his sidequest, you can unlock powerful spells and equipment. Be sure to rescue him from Sen's Fortress and assist him throughout his journey to fully benefit from his questline.
• Knight Lautrec of Carim: Lautrec is a character with dubious intentions, and his sidequest gives players a choice to either aid him or foil his plans. The outcome of this questline can have consequences for other NPCs, so choose wisely and consider the potential ramifications of your actions.
• Griggs of Vinheim: Griggs is another sorcerer you can assist in his journey. By completing his sidequest, you can unlock additional spells and equipment. Make sure to rescue him from Lower Undead Burg and assist him in his efforts to become a powerful magician.
• Rhea of Thorolund: Rhea is a cleric you will encounter in the Undead Parish. By helping her and preventing her from meeting an unfortunate fate, you can unlock unique miracles. It's worth noting that her questline is time-sensitive, so make sure to rescue her from the Tomb of the Giants before it's too late.
• Laurentius of the Great Swamp: Laurentius is a pyromancer who can teach you new pyromancies. By assisting him and sharing your pyromancy knowledge, you can expand your arsenal of fire-based spells. Make sure to exhaust his dialogue options and complete his sidequest before moving on to NG+.

Completing these NPC sidequests not only adds depth to the game's lore and world-building but also rewards players with unique items, equipment, and spells. Taking the time to fully explore these storylines before moving on to NG+ will enhance your overall Dark Souls experience and allow you to appreciate the game's attention to detail and intricate storytelling. So dive into the intricate world of Dark Souls, help these NPCs fulfill their destinies, and prepare yourself for the challenges that await in NG+.

Obtain all Estus Flask upgrades

Dark Souls is a challenging game that requires careful planning and strategy to progress. As you prepare to start a new game cycle (NG+), there are several essential tasks you should complete to make your next playthrough more manageable. One of these essential tasks is obtaining all Estus Flask upgrades.

The Estus Flask is a vital item in Dark Souls as it replenishes the player's health. Upgrading the Estus Flask increases the amount of health restored with each use, making it invaluable in surviving the game's difficult battles. To obtain all Estus Flask upgrades before NG+, follow these steps:

• Find the Rite of Kindling: The Rite of Kindling is an item that allows players to increase the number of Estus Flask charges they can hold at bonfires. This item is found in the Catacombs, a dark and treacherous area of the game. Explore the Catacombs thoroughly to locate the Rite of Kindling, which is guarded by powerful enemies.
• Kill Pinwheel: After obtaining the Rite of Kindling, proceed to the Tomb of the Giants, a pitch-black area filled with deadly foes. Defeat Pinwheel, the boss of this area, to acquire the ability to kindle bonfires up to 20 Estus Flask charges.
• Defeat Nito: To further upgrade the Estus Flask, players must proceed to the end-game area known as the Kiln of the First Flame. Here, they will face off against Nito, one of the game's main bosses. Defeating Nito will grant players the ability to kindle bonfires up to 20 Estus Flask charges, effectively doubling the amount of healing available.

By following these steps, players can obtain all Estus Flask upgrades before starting NG+. Having a fully upgraded Estus Flask is crucial in surviving the relentless challenges that await in subsequent playthroughs. With more healing available, players can face tougher enemies and bosses with a greater chance of success.

It's worth noting that once NG+ begins, players will lose access to certain areas and bosses until reaching specific points in the story again. Therefore, it's essential to complete all necessary tasks, including obtaining all Estus Flask upgrades, before proceeding to the next game cycle.

In conclusion, obtaining all Estus Flask upgrades is a vital task to complete before starting NG+ in Dark Souls. By finding the Rite of Kindling, defeating Pinwheel, and overcoming Nito, players can unlock the ability to kindle bonfires up to 20 Estus Flask charges. This significantly enhances their survivability in subsequent playthroughs, making it easier to face the game's toughest challenges. Prepare yourself adequately before venturing into NG+ and emerge victorious once again in the brutal world of Dark Souls.

Defeat all invaders and obtain their unique drops

In Dark Souls, the journey doesn't end once you defeat the final boss and enter New Game Plus (NG+). There are still many things you can do before moving on to the next playthrough. One of the activities you should consider is defeating all invaders and obtaining their unique drops.

Invaders are tough enemies that are summoned to your world with the sole purpose of hindering your progress. They can be incredibly challenging to defeat, but they drop rare items that can greatly enhance your character. By defeating all invaders, you'll not only obtain their unique drops, but you'll also be able to test your skills against some of the toughest opponents in the game.

To begin your quest to defeat all invaders, you'll first need to reverse hollowing at a Bonfire. This will allow you to be invaded by other players and NPC invaders. NPC invaders are non-playable characters that invade your world at specific locations and times. They often have unique equipment and can provide great challenges.

One of the most notable NPC invaders is Kirk, Knight of Thorns. Kirk can be encountered in various locations throughout the game, such as the Depths, Demon Ruins, and Lost Izalith. Defeating Kirk will earn you his unique armor set, which provides excellent defense and poise.

Another formidable NPC invader is Paladin Leeroy, who can be encountered in the Tomb of the Giants. He wields Grant, a powerful weapon that deals both physical and magical damage. By defeating him, you'll obtain Grant and his unique armor set, becoming a fearsome force to be reckoned with.

In addition to NPC invaders, you can also be invaded by other players through the game's online multiplayer feature. These player invaders can be even more challenging to defeat, as they are controlled by skilled Dark Souls players. They often utilize advanced strategies and tactics to catch you off guard.

Defeating player invaders can be a rewarding experience, as they can drop rare and valuable items. Some player invaders wear unique armor sets that cannot be obtained through any other means. By defeating them, you'll have the chance to obtain these exclusive items and add them to your collection.

When engaging in PvP (Player versus Player) combat, it's important to be prepared. Make sure you have a well-rounded build with a good balance of offense and defense. Familiarize yourself with your weapon's moveset and practice different strategies to gain the upper hand in combat. Additionally, consider using consumables such as healing items and buffs to give yourself an advantage.

Before moving on to NG+, take the time to challenge and defeat all invaders lurking in the world of Dark Souls. The unique drops and valuable items they provide will greatly benefit your character and make your next playthrough even more enjoyable. So gear up, sharpen your skills, and prepare for epic battles against formidable foes.

Find and defeat all optional bosses, like Kalameet or Gwyndolin

One of the most important tasks to complete before starting a new game plus (ng+) in Dark Souls is to find and defeat all optional bosses. These bosses offer unique challenges and are often more difficult than the main game bosses.

One such optional boss is Kalameet, the black dragon. Located in the Royal Wood area of the Artorias of the Abyss DLC, Kalameet is a formidable opponent known for his fierce attacks and devastating fire breath. Defeating Kalameet requires precise timing and strategy, making it a satisfying challenge for skilled players.

Another optional boss to tackle before ng+ is Gwyndolin, the Dark Sun. This boss is found in the hidden area of Anor Londo, accessible by equipping the Darkmoon Seance Ring and entering the rotating statue in Gwynevere's room. Gwyndolin is a powerful magic user who employs a variety of long-range attacks, making him a difficult adversary to defeat.

In addition to these two optional bosses, there are several others scattered throughout the game that are worth seeking out before entering ng+. These include bosses like the Four Kings in New Londo Ruins, Priscilla in the Painted World of Ariamis, and Stray Demon in the Undead Asylum.

Defeating these optional bosses not only adds a sense of accomplishment, but also offers unique rewards. For example, defeating Kalameet rewards players with his tail, which can be forged into one of the strongest weapons in the game. Similarly, defeating Gwyndolin allows players to acquire the Darkmoon Bow, a powerful ranged weapon.

In addition to defeating optional bosses, players have the opportunity to complete any unfinished quests or storylines before progressing to ng+. This may include helping NPCs with their individual quests, obtaining rare items, or exploring areas that were previously inaccessible. Taking the time to tie up loose ends can add depth and satisfaction to the overall gameplay experience.

Overall, there are plenty of things to do before starting ng+ in Dark Souls. Finding and defeating all optional bosses, such as Kalameet and Gwyndolin, should be a top priority. Their challenging battles and unique rewards make for a rewarding experience and help players maximize their character's potential before entering the next playthrough.

Frequently asked questions