Locations - Dark Souls


Base Game Locations


Base Game Locations

Undead Asylum

undeadasylum-ds1.jpgUndead Asylum (北の不死院) is the first Location in Dark Souls. It is reached upon the player beginning a new game or New Game+, and leads to Firelink Shrine. It ultimately serves as an introduction to the game's mechanics, namely combat, loot, and death. 

Information

Undead Asylum serves as the game's tutorial, introducing basic mechanics and combat. Players begin imprisoned in a cell and must escape while navigating the dangers of the asylum, including environmental hazards and increasingly powerful foes.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Merchants

Items

Walkthrough

First Encounter with the Asylum Demon

Tips for Defeating the Demon:

Navigating the Asylum
Oscar of Astora (Elite Knight of Astora)
Second Encounter with the Asylum Demon

Reward: Victory grants the Big Pilgrim’s Key and Humanity. Use the key to exit through the large door and proceed to Firelink Shrine.

Soul Farming

Notes

Trivia

Base Game Locations

Firelink Shrine

firelinkshrine-ds1.jpgFirelink Shrine (火継ぎの祭祀場) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessed directly after the Undead Asylum, and connects to multiple areas. 

Information

NPCs

Crestfallen Warrior

Anastacia of Astora (Fire Keeper)

Petrus of Thorolund

Rhea of Thorolund and Her Escorts (Nico and Vince)

Knight Lautrec of Carim

Griggs of Vinheim

Laurentius of the Great Swamp

Domhnall of Zena

Big Hat Logan

Siegmeyer of Catarina

Sieglinde of Catarina

Kingseeker Frampt

Items

General Items:
Rings:
Weapons and Shields:
Special Items:
Consumables:

Notes

Trivia

Base Game Locations

Undead Burg

undeadburg-ds1.jpgUndead Burg (城下不死街) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible via Firelink Shrine, and leads to the Undead Parish

Information

The Undead Burg is an early-game area that introduces players to a variety of enemy types and gameplay mechanics. It serves as a path to several key areas, including the Taurus Demon boss, Black Knight encounters, several merchants.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Enemies

Black Knight:
Havel the Rock:

Merchants

Male Undead Merchant:

Items

General Items:
Weapons and Shields:
Rings:
Consumables:

Walkthrough

  1. Starting Path:
    • Begin at Firelink Shrine, ascending the stairs to the right.
    • Clear the Hollow Soldiers as you proceed toward the aqueduct.
  2. Entering Undead Burg:
    • Cross through the aqueduct and into the Undead Burg.
    • The path diverges:
      • Lower Route: Leads to consumables and minor items.
      • Upper Route: Leads to progression.
    • Take the upper route, clearing Hollow Soldiers with crossbows and swords.
  3. First Bonfire:
    • Enter the building near the crossbow Hollows to find the first bonfire.
    • This bonfire will serve as a key checkpoint for most of your exploration in this area. Kindle it early for increased Estus Flask charges.

From the Bonfire to the Taurus Demon

  1. Hollow Ambushes:
    • Move up the staircase from the bonfire and deal with Hollows waiting in ambush.
    • Check the area near the spear-wielding Hollows to find the merchant.
  2. Narrow Path to the Battlements:
    • Progress through the narrow streets filled with multiple enemies.
    • Use firebombs or lure enemies out to prevent being overwhelmed.
    • Loot the area for the Black Firebombs from a chest and other consumables.
  3. Path to the Boss:
    • At the spiral staircase, choose:
      • Lower Route: Leads to the Black Knight, guarding the Blue Tearstone Ring.
      • Upper Route: Leads to the Taurus Demon boss fog gate.
    • Clear enemies on the spiral staircase and ascend to reach the fog gate.

The Taurus Demon

  1. Preparation:
    • Eliminate the two crossbow Hollows atop the nearby tower before entering the fog gate.
    • Buff your weapon with Gold Pine Resin for increased damage (optional).
  2. Battle Strategy:
    • Lure the Taurus Demon to the center of the bridge.
    • Climb the ladder to the tower, and perform plunging attacks for significant damage.
    • After the attack, retreat to a safe distance or circle around to repeat the process.
  3. Victory:
    • Defeating the Taurus Demon unlocks access to the bridge guarded by the Hellkite Drake.

Covenants

Warrior of Sunlight:

Shortcuts

Bonfire Shortcut

Hellkite Drake Bridge Bypass

Watchtower Shortcut to Havel’s Tower

Soul Farming

The Hellkite Drake can be used to farm souls by baiting its flame attack to burn nearby enemies. This method yields 555 souls per cycle and is a safe way to level up early.

Notes

Trivia

Base Game Locations

Undead Parish

undeadparish-ds1.jpgUndead Parish (城下不死教区) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible after Undead Burg, and enables access to Sen's Fortress and the Darkroot Garden

Information

The Undead Parish is a continuation of the Undead Burg, featuring tougher enemies, a mini-boss encounter with the Armored Tusk, and a climactic fight with the Bell Gargoyles. It introduces new NPCs like the Fire Keeper and Andre of Astora, alongside key items and shortcuts that make it a critical area for progression.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Bell Gargoyles:

Enemies

Hollow Soldiers and Warriors:
Balder Knights:
Armored Tusk (Mini-Boss):
Channeler:
Berenike Knight:
Hollow Soldiers (Enhanced):

Merchants

Andre of Astora:
Fire Keeper (Anastacia of Astora):
Oswald of Carim:

NPCs

Lautrec of Carim:
Solaire of Astora:

Items

Weapons:
Shields:
Armor:
Key Items:
Consumables:

Walkthrough

Reaching the Parish

Church Ground Floor

Church Upper Floors

Bell Gargoyle Boss Fight

Shortcuts

Soul Farming

Church Exterior:
Hellkite Drake:

Notes

Trivia


Base Game Locations

Darkroot Garden

deeprootgarden-ds1.jpgDarkroot Garden (黒い森の庭) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is reached after location, and before location. 

Information

The Darkroot Garden is a dense forest located past the Undead Parish. This area is home to formidable enemies, key bosses like Moonlight Butterfly and Great Grey Wolf Sif, and significant NPCs such as Alvina the Cat and Shiva of the East. It also contains the Covenant of Forest Hunters and leads to the Darkroot Basin. Exploration requires caution, as the area includes hidden paths, ambushes, and environmental hazards.

Area Bosses

Moonlight Butterfly
Great Grey Wolf Sif

Enemies

Tree Spirits
Great Stone Knights
Forest Hunter NPCs
Giant Cats
Mushroom People

NPCs

Alvina the Cat
Shiva of the East
Witch Beatrice

Items

Key Items
Armor
Rings
Weapons
Upgrades

Walkthrough

From Undead Parish

  1. Exit through Andre's smithy.
  2. Bypass or kill the Titanite Demon.
  3. Navigate the forest path and defeat the Tree Spirits.
  4. Unlock the Seal of Artorias door using 20,000 Souls from Andre.
  5. Use the hidden bonfire near the door to rest.

To Moonlight Butterfly

  1. Take the side path past the Seal of Artorias.
  2. Summon Beatrice for assistance.
  3. Fight the Moonlight Butterfly on the bridge.
  4. Collect the Divine Ember and Watchtower Basement Key from the rooftop.

To Sif

  1. Enter the glowing door in the forest after defeating the Butterfly.
  2. Approach the grave to initiate the boss fight.
  3. Collect the Covenant of Artorias upon defeating Sif.

Covenants

Forest Hunter Covenant

Shortcuts

Hidden Bonfire:
Alternate Path to Sif:

Soul Farming

Forest Hunters:
Stone Knights:

Notes

Trivia


Base Game Locations

Darkroot Basin

deeprootbasin-ds1.jpgDarkroot Basin (狭間の森) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is reached after location, and before location. 

Information

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Optional

Enemies

Merchants

this area has these merchants

NPCs

this area has these NPCs

Items

this area spawns these items

Walkthrough

Covenants

Quests

Shortcuts

Soul Farming

Notes

Trivia


Base Game Locations

Lower Undead Burg

lowerundeadburg-ds1.jpgLower Undead Burg (不死街下層) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible via Undead Parish and leads to the Depths

Information

The Lower Undead Burg is a claustrophobic and perilous area connected to the Undead Parish and the Depths, accessed via the door near the Helkite Dragon's bridge. The area is filled with ambushes, tight corridors, and formidable foes, culminating in the Capra Demon boss battle. It also features notable NPCs and key items necessary for progression.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Capra Demon

Enemies

Hollow Dogs:
Hollow Thieves:
Torch Hollows:

Merchants

Female Undead Merchant:

NPCs

Griggs of Vinheim:

Items

Weapons:
Armor:
Consumables:
Key Items:

Walkthrough

Accessing the Lower Undead Burg

Ambush by Hollow Dogs

Rescuing Griggs

Facing Hollow Thieves

Capra Demon Boss Battle

Shortcuts

Soul Farming

Hollow Dogs:
Hollow Thieves:

Notes

Trivia

Base Game Locations

Depths

depths-ds1.jpgThe Depths (最下層) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessed via Lower Undead Burg, and leads to Blighttown

Information

The Depths is a dimly lit and treacherous area beneath the Undead Burg, filled with labyrinthine corridors, ambushes, and enemies with devastating effects. This area leads to Blighttown and is home to the Gaping Dragon, one of the game's more challenging early bosses. Be prepared with repair items, such as Repair Powder, to counteract the durability damage caused by the Gaping Dragon.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Gaping Dragon:

Enemies

Hollows:
Hollow Cooks:
Hollow Dogs:
Rats:
Basilisks:
Slimes:
Kirk, Knight of Thorns (Invader):

Merchants

Female Undead Merchant:
Domhnall of Zena:

NPCs

Laurentius of the Great Swamp:

Items

Key Items:
Weapons and Armor:
Rings:
Consumables:

Walkthrough

Entry Point

Kitchen Area

Saving Laurentius

Waterlogged Corridors

Giant Rat Room

Basilisk Nest

Gaping Dragon

Shortcuts

Kitchen Shortcut:

Soul Farming

Rats:
Slimes:

Notes

Trivia

Base Game Locations

Blighttown

blighttown-ds1.jpgBlighttown (病み村) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible via Firelink Shrine and in close proximity to Valley of the Drakes, leading to Quelaag's Domain

Information

Blighttown is a treacherous area characterized by narrow walkways, toxic threats, and high chances of falling to death. Its design and atmosphere evoke memories of "Valley of Defilement" from Demon’s Souls. Despite the danger, the rewards are significant for those who explore carefully.

Preparation

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Chaos Witch Quelaag:

Found in Quelaag’s Domain, past the swamp.

Enemies

Standard Enemies

Blowdart Sniper

Uses toxic darts. Does not respawn.

Large Club-Wielding Barbarians

Aggressive, heavy hitters.

Infested Ghouls

Poisonous enemies scattered throughout.

Infested Fire Dogs

Flame-spewing, high-damage enemies.

Mosquitoes

Infinite respawns, easy to ignore if possible.

Leeches

Found in swamp areas.

Unique Enemies

Dragon Zombie
Egg Carrier

Passive unless provoked.

Merchants

Quelana of Izalith:
Shiva of the East:

NPCs

Quelana of Izalith:
Shiva of the East:
Maneater Mildred:

Items

Weapons
Shields
Armor
Rings
Consumables
Key Items

Walkthrough

From The Depths

From Valley of Drakes

Reaching Quelaag’s Domain

Covenants

Quests

Shortcuts

Soul Farming

Leeches

 Drop multiple Green Titanite Shards and Large Titanite Shards.

Notes

Trivia


Base Game Locations

Valley of the Drakes

valleyofdrakes-ds1.jpgValley of the Drakes (飛竜の谷) is a Location in Dark Souls

Information

Valley of the Drakes serves as a connecting area between New Londo Ruins, Blighttown, and Darkroot Garden. The area is narrow and requires caution to avoid falling to your death.

Enemies

Lightning Drakes
Dragon Zombie

Items

Weapons
Shields
Armor
Rings
Consumables
Key Items

Walkthrough

From Darkroot Garden

  1. Use the elevator behind the bonfire cave to enter Flying Dragon Valley.
  2. Encounter the first Lightning Drake immediately after arriving.
  3. Continue across the bridge to face another Lightning Drake. Three more wait further in.
  4. Avoid engaging multiple drakes at once; lure and fight them one at a time.
  5. Ignore the large gate leading to New Londo Ruins as it cannot be opened from this side.
  6. Cross the bridge or head left to encounter the Dragon Zombie and progress toward Blighttown or New Londo Ruins.

From Blighttown

  1. Exit the elevator and continue upward to reach the opposite side of Flying Dragon Valley.
  2. Encounter a Lightning Drake and the Dragon Zombie near the cliff path.
  3. Proceed straight to find the iron door to New Londo Ruins (requires the Master Key or New Londo Ruins Key).
  4. The treasure near the Dragon Zombie includes Astora’s Straight Sword and Dragon Crest Shield.

From New Londo Ruins

  1. Enter through either of two routes:
    • Firelink Shrine-side Door: Requires Master Key or New Londo Ruins Key.
    • Watergate: Opens after using the Seal Key to drain New Londo.
  2. For the Firelink Shrine-side Door, proceed through the cliffs to encounter the Dragon Zombie and reach the Blighttown path.
  3. For the Watergate, advance toward Darkroot Garden while defeating Lightning Drakes.

Shortcuts

None explicitly present, but the Master Key unlocks the door between New Londo Ruins and Flying Dragon Valley, providing early access.

Soul Farming

Lightning Drakes:

Notes

Trivia


Base Game Locations

Sen's Fortress

sensfortress-ds1.jpgSen's Fortress (センの古城) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible via Undead Parish or Blighttown, and leads to Anor Londo

Information

Sen's Fortress, accessible after ringing the Bells of Awakening in the Undead Parish and Blighttown, is a perilous stronghold filled with traps, tough enemies, and treacherous paths. The area introduces mechanical traps such as swinging blades, rolling boulders, and pressure plates that trigger arrows. Successfully navigating the fortress rewards the player with access to the fortress's boss, the Iron Golem, and opens the path to Anor Londo.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Iron Golem

Enemies

Snake Warriors (Snake-Men)
Snake Sorcerers (Snake-Mages)
Mimics
Titanite Demons
Boulder-Throwing Giants
Bomb-Throwing Giant
Balder Knights
Chaos Witch Quelaag (Summoned Enemy)

Merchants

Crestfallen Merchant

NPCs

Siegmeyer of Catarina
Big Hat Logan

Items

Key Items
Other Items

Walkthrough

Entrance to the First Guillotine Corridor

First Guillotine Corridor

Boulder Trap and Hidden Paths

Midpoint and Second Guillotine Corridor

Roof and Final Area

Shortcuts

Cage Elevator:

Soul Farming

Notes

Trivia

Base Game Locations

Anor Londo

anorlondo-ds1.jpgAnor Londo (アノール・ロンド) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible after Sen's Fortress, and unlocks the Painted World of Ariamis if the player has the Peculiar Doll in their possession. 

Information

Anor Londo is a pivotal mid-game area in Dark Souls. Known for its grandeur, it serves as the seat of the gods and the location of the infamous boss fight against Ornstein and Smough. This area features challenging enemies, intricate shortcuts, and significant lore-related events. Access to Anor Londo is granted after defeating the boss of Sen's Fortress and being carried by the Batwing Demons.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Ornstein and Smough

Optional

Dark Sun Gwyndolin

Enemies

Batwing Demons:
Silver Knights:
Giant Sentinels:
Mimics:
Painting Guardians:

Merchants

Giant Blacksmith

Items

Key Items
Rings
Armor
Weapons
Miscellaneous

Walkthrough

Arrival

  1. Speak to the Batwing Demon to leave Anor Londo or explore further.
  2. Access the first bonfire guarded by the Firekeeper. Strengthen Estus Flasks here.

Cathedral and Ornstein/Smough

  1. Traverse the rooftops and deal with the Painting Guardians.
  2. Open the bridge shortcut to the Grand Cathedral.
  3. Defeat Ornstein and Smough to progress to Gwynevere’s chamber.

Painted World of Ariamis Access

  1. Bring the Strange Doll from the Asylum to the Painted World entrance.
  2. Beware of the Painting Guardians in this area.

Darkmoon Tomb

  1. Equip the Darkmoon Seance Ring to open Gwyndolin’s tomb.
  2. Choose to either fight Gwyndolin or join the covenant.

Covenants

Princess Guard
Blades of the Darkmoon

Shortcuts

Cathedral Bridge:
Golden Gate:

Soul Farming

Notes

Trivia

Base Game Locations

Demon Ruins

demonruins-ds1.jpgDemon Ruins (デーモン遺跡) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible after Blighttown and Quelaag's domain, and can be used as a shortcut to Lost Izalith

Information

Demon Ruins is a fiery area connected to Quelaag's Domain. It houses three formidable bosses: Ceaseless Discharge, Demon Firesage, and Centipede Demon. Progressing through this area requires the defeat of Ceaseless Discharge, which lowers the lava levels, allowing access to deeper sections. The Demon Firesage and Centipede Demon require breaking the Lordvessel Seal to fight.

Area Bosses

Ceaseless Discharge

Demon Firesage

Centipede Demon

Enemies

Egg-Burdened
Taurus Demons
Capra Demons
Burrowing Rockworm
Stone Statues

Items

Weapons

Armor

Consumables

Titanite

Key Items

Walkthrough

Entry and First Bonfire

Ceaseless Discharge

  1. Proceed down the slope past passive Egg-Burdened enemies.
  2. Collect the Gold-Hemmed Black Set to trigger the fight.
  3. Defeat Ceaseless Discharge to lower the lava levels.

Lava Field and Taurus Demons

Second Bonfire and Capra Demons

Demon Firesage

  1. Progress deeper into the ruins to find the Demon Firesage.
  2. Use a high-stability shield to block its attacks.
  3. Defeat the boss to access a shortcut elevator to Quelaag's Domain.

Centipede Demon

  1. Descend further to find the Centipede Demon boss.
  2. Defeat it to obtain the Orange Charred Ring, which allows safe traversal on lava.

Shortcut to Lost Izalith

Covenants

Chaos Servant:

You can deepen this covenant by donating humanity to Quelaag's Sister in Quelaag's Domain. At rank 2 (30 humanity), you unlock a shortcut to Lost Izalith.

Shortcuts

Chaos Servant Shortcut

Requires Chaos Servant rank 2 to open the door leading directly to Lost Izalith.

Elevator to Quelaag's Domain

Found near the Demon Firesage, offering quick access back.

Soul Farming

Capra Demons:
Burrowing Rockworms:

Notes

Trivia


Base Game Locations

Lost Izalith

izalith-ds1.jpg Lost Izalith (混沌の廃都イザリス) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible via the Demon Ruins

Information

Lost Izalith is a fiery, chaotic area accessible via the Demon Ruins. It is home to many powerful enemies and the infamous boss, Bed of Chaos. The area contains significant story events, including key interactions with Solaire of Astora, Kirk, Knight of Thorns, and Siegmeyer of Catarina.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Bed of Chaos

Enemies

Chaos Eaters
Stone Demons
Chaos Bugs
Bounding Demons of Izalith
Titanite Demon

NPCs

Solaire of Astora
Siegmeyer of Catarina
Kirk, Knight of Thorns

Items

Weapons
Helms
Armor
Consumables
Titanite

Walkthrough

Lava Field and Bounding Demons

Stone Demon Path

Chaos Eater Pit

Final Path to the Bed of Chaos

Covenants

Chaos Servant

Joining this covenant and offering 30 Humanity allows access to the shortcut leading to Lost Izalith, bypassing parts of the area and enabling the rescue of Solaire.

Quests

Shortcuts

Chaos Servant Shortcut:

Soul Farming

Titanite Demons:
Chaos Bugs:

Notes

Trivia


Base Game Locations

New Londo Ruins

newlondoruins-ds1.jpgNew Londo Ruins (小ロンド遺跡) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible via Firelink Shrine, and connects it to the Valley of Drakes and The Abyss.

Information

The New Londo Ruins is a haunting, waterlogged area beneath Firelink Shrine, filled with spectral enemies and a foreboding atmosphere. This location serves as a pivotal area in the game, connecting to the Valley of Drakes and containing several key items and shortcuts. The ruins are notable for their cursed inhabitants and treacherous terrain, which require preparation and strategic planning to traverse safely.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Four Kings:

Enemies

Hollows:
Ghosts:
Darkwraiths:
Banshees (Red-Eyed Ghosts):
Mass of Souls:

Merchants

Rickert of Vinheim:
Ingward:

NPCs

Darkstalker Kaathe:
Crestfallen Warrior:

Items

Weapons:

Shields:

Armor:

Key Items:

Consumables:

Walkthrough

Entering the Ruins

Dealing with Ghosts

Exploring the Ghost House

Unlocking Shortcuts

Covenants

Darkwraith Covenant:

Shortcuts

Valley of Drakes:

Soul Farming

Ghosts:

Notes

Trivia

Base Game Locations

Tomb of the Giants

tombofthegiants-ds1.jpgTomb of the Giants (巨人墓場) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible after The Catacombs

Information

The Tomb of the Giants is a dark, perilous area with near-pitch black lighting. It is home to large skeletal enemies, traps, and challenging terrain. Light is essential for survival here, with tools such as the Skull Lantern, Sunlight Maggot, or the Light sorcery being invaluable.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Gravelord Nito:

Enemies

Giant Skeletons:
Beast Skeletons:
Skeleton Poles:
Baby Skeletons:
Black Knight (Halberd):

Merchants

Trusty Patches:

Items

Key Items:
Weapons and Gear:
Rings:
Upgrade Materials:

Walkthrough

From the Catacombs to the First Bonfire

From the First Bonfire to the Second Bonfire

From the Second Bonfire to Nito

Shortcuts

First Bonfire Shortcut:
Skip to Nito:

Soul Farming

Baby Skeletons:
Skeleton Poles:

Notes

Trivia

Base Game Locations

Ash Lake

ashlake-ds1.jpgAsh Lake (地底湖) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible via The Great Hollow

Information

Ash Lake is a serene yet desolate area, home to the ancient Stone Dragon, one of the few surviving Everlasting Dragons. It is accessible through The Great Hollow, and while it is not mandatory for progression, it offers unique treasures, enemies, and lore.

Enemies

Lake Hydra
Clams (Five-Legged Shell Beasts)
Other Enemies

Items

Weapons
Rings
Consumables
Upgrade Materials

Walkthrough

Getting Started

Progression

  1. First Bonfire:
    • Located at the beginning of the sandy shore, to the right after exiting The Great Hollow.
    • Rest here to make it a warpable bonfire.
  2. Lake Hydra:
    • Encountered shortly after the first bonfire.
    • Defeat it to clear the area for safer exploration.
  3. Large Hollow Tree:
    • Found along the path. Contains Basilisks, Mushroom Men, and the Great Magic Barrier.
  4. Stone Dragon:
    • At the far end of Ash Lake.
    • Pray at its feet to join the Path of the Dragon covenant.
    • Cutting its tail grants the Dragon Greatsword.

Returning

Covenants

Path of the Dragon

Join this covenant by praying at the Stone Dragon located at the far end of Ash Lake. This covenant focuses on PvP invasions through the use of the Dragon Eye.

Soul Farming

Clams:

Notes

Trivia


Base Game Locations

Chasm of the Abyss

Chasm of the Abyss (過去森) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is reached after location, and before location. 

Information

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Optional

Enemies

Merchants

this area has these merchants

NPCs

this area has these NPCs

Items

this area spawns these items

Walkthrough

Covenants

Quests

Shortcuts

Soul Farming

Notes

Trivia


Base Game Locations

Painted World of Ariamis

paintedworld-ds1.jpgPainted World of Ariamis (エレーミアス絵画世界) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is reached after location, and before location. 

Information

The Painted World of Ariamis is a secluded, snowy area in Dark Souls, designed to imprison the half-dragon Priscilla. Once you enter, you cannot leave until you reach Priscilla's domain. This fantastical yet foreboding area is filled with unique enemies and significant loot. Be prepared before entering, as bonfire warping and external item purchases are inaccessible within the area.

Area Bosses

Crossbreed Priscilla

Enemies

Hollow Soldiers:
Bloated Hollows:
Harpy (Velka’s Crow Demon):
Phalanx:
Wheel Skeletons:
Dragon Zombie:

Merchants

There are no merchants within the Painted World. Prepare before entering by purchasing:

Items

Key Items
Weapons
Armor
Rings

Miscellaneous

Walkthrough

Entrance

  1. Obtain the Strange Doll from the Northern Undead Asylum.
  2. Interact with the large painting in Anor Londo to enter the Painted World.

Exploring the World

The Annex

  1. Use the Annex Key to access the tower.
  2. Defeat enemies guarding the Dark Ember and Velka’s Set.

Reaching Priscilla

Leaving the Painted World

Covenants

The Painted World does not itself feature any covenants directly but contains items and characters linked to covenants:

Shortcuts

Soul Farming

Phalanx Area:

Notes

Trivia

Base Game Locations

Royal Wood

royalwood-ds1.jpgRoyal Wood (過去森) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is reached after location, and before location. 

Information

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Optional

Enemies

Merchants

this area has these merchants

NPCs

this area has these NPCs

Items

this area spawns these items

Walkthrough

Covenants

Quests

Shortcuts

Soul Farming

Notes

Trivia


Base Game Locations

The Abyss

abyss-ds1.jpgThe Abyss (深淵) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible via New Londo Ruins.

Information

The Abyss is a foreboding arena located at the heart of the New Londo Ruins, serving as the battleground for the Four Kings, one of the essential bosses to progress the main story. Accessing the Abyss requires the Covenant of Artorias ring to prevent instant death upon entering the dark void. This requirement extends to summoned allies. After defeating the Four Kings, the ring is no longer necessary.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Four Kings

Enemies

Darkwraiths:
Ghosts:

Merchants

Darkstalker Kaathe

NPCs

Ingward

Items

Key Items
Drops

Walkthrough

Reaching the Abyss

  1. Preparation:

    • Equip the Covenant of Artorias ring.
    • Bring Transient Curses to fight ghosts or use a cursed weapon like the Jagged Ghost Blade.
    • Stock up on healing items and repair gear, as New Londo is treacherous.
  2. Drain the Flood:

    • Speak to Ingward to obtain the Key to the Seal or kill him to retrieve it.
    • Use the key to open the floodgate, draining the water in the ruins and revealing new pathways.
  3. Descend the Ruins:

    • Clear out Darkwraiths and ghosts while navigating the now-dry ruins.
    • Reach the spiral staircase leading to the Abyss.
  4. Entering the Abyss:

    • Equip the Covenant of Artorias before jumping from the spiral staircase into the void.

Fighting the Four Kings

Covenants

Darkwraith Covenant

Shortcuts

Soul Farming

Darkwraiths:

Notes

Trivia


Base Game Locations

The Duke's Archives

dukesarchive-ds1.jpgThe Duke's Archives (公爵の書庫) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessed via Anor Londo and leads to Crystal Cave

Information

The Duke's Archives is a sprawling library and research facility built by Seath the Scaleless, located near Anor Londo. Entry is barred by a yellow fog gate until the Seal of Gwyn is broken by defeating Ornstein and Smough. Players cannot summon or be invaded until after the scripted defeat against Seath the Scaleless. The area includes challenging enemies, complex puzzles, and significant loot. It leads to the Crystal Cave, where Seath is fought for the second and final time.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Seath the Scaleless

Enemies

Armored Tusk:
Crystal Hollow:
Channeler (Six-Eyed Sorcerer):
Mimic:
Crystal Golem:
Scaleless Beast (Pisaca):

Merchants

Big Hat Logan:

Items

Key Items
Weapons
Armor
Rings
Miscellaneous

Walkthrough

Initial Exploration

Prison Sequence

Archives Main Section

Crystal Cave

Covenants

No covenant is directly tied to the Duke's Archives, but significant items for magic builds and the Path of the Dragon covenant (via Seath's scales) can be found here.

Shortcuts

Soul Farming

Notes

Trivia

Base Game Locations

Kiln of the First Flame

kilnofthefirstflame-ds1.jpgKiln of the First Flame (大墓) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is only accessible after the player has placed all four Lord Souls in the Lordvessel. 

Information

The Kiln of the First Flame serves as the final stage of Dark Souls. It becomes accessible after placing the four Lord Souls (or equivalent shards) in the Lordvessel at Firelink Altar, opening the grand door leading to this ultimate arena. The path is straightforward, with minimal exploration and five Black Knights guarding the approach to the final boss, Gwyn, Lord of Cinder. Be cautious of frequent PvP invasions in this area if you remain in human form.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Gwyn, Lord of Cinder

Enemies

Black Knights:
Wandering Humanity Phantoms:

Items

Armor
Upgrade Materials
Weapons

Walkthrough

Covenants

This area does not host any specific covenants, but actions taken here—such as choosing to link the flame or walk away—may influence lore interpretations tied to covenants such as the Darkwraiths or Warriors of Sunlight.

Soul Farming

Black Knights:

Notes

Trivia

Base Game Locations

The Catacombs

catacombs-ds1.jpgThe Catacombs (地下墓地) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible via Firelink Shrine, and leads to the Tomb of the Giants

Information

The Catacombs is a treacherous area, filled with traps, reanimating skeletons, and perilous paths. It serves as the gateway to the Tomb of the Giants and features critical NPCs and items for progression. The area is challenging due to its dark atmosphere, undead enemies, and environmental hazards.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Pinwheel:

Enemies

Reanimating Skeletons:
Necromancers:
Exploding Floating Skulls (Vengeful Skulls):
Wheel Skeletons:
Titanite Demon:
Black Knight:

Merchants

Trusty Patches/Patches the Hyena:

NPCs

Paladin Leeroy (Summon):
Vamos the Blacksmith:

Items

Key Items:
Weapons and Equipment:
Consumables:

Walkthrough

Progressing to the Second Bonfire

Reaching the Boss

Shortcuts

Titanite Demon Room:
Wheel Skeleton Area:
Backtrack Shortcut:

Quests

Nito’s Covenant:

Soul Farming

Wheel Skeletons:
Necromancer and Skeleton Loops:

Notes

Trivia

Base Game Locations

Quelaag's Domain

Quelaag's Domain is a Location in Dark Souls. It is reached after location, and before location. 

Information

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Optional

Enemies

Merchants

this area has these merchants

NPCs

this area has these NPCs

Items

this area spawns these items

Walkthrough

Covenants

Quests

Shortcuts

Soul Farming

Notes

Trivia


Base Game Locations

The Great Hollow

thegreathollow-ds1.jpgThe Great Hollow (大樹のうつろ) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible via Blighttown and leads to Ash Lake

Information

The Great Hollow is a vertical labyrinth connecting Blighttown and Ash Lake, filled with hazardous drops, valuable loot, and rare enemies. This area requires careful navigation due to the many opportunities for falling to your death.

Enemies

Standard Enemies

Basilisks:
Large Mushroom Men:
Small Mushroom Men:
Crystal Lizards:

Items

Shields
Rings
Consumables
Upgrade Materials

Walkthrough

Getting Started

Progression

Climbing Back Up

Ash Lake Path

Shortcuts

Soul Farming

Crystal Lizards:

Notes

Trivia


Base Game Locations

Crystal Cave

crystalcave-ds1.jpgCrystal Cave (結晶洞穴) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible via The Duke's Archives, and houses the final battle with Seath the Scaleless. 

Information

The Crystal Cave is a treacherous area connected to the Duke’s Archives, serving as the final battleground against Seath the Scaleless. The cave is notable for its invisible bridges and powerful enemies. Navigating the area requires extreme caution, as falling is a constant risk. There is no bonfire within the Crystal Cave until Seath is defeated, making the Duke’s Archives bonfire the nearest resting point.

Area Bosses

Mandatory

Seath The Scaleless

Enemies

Crystal Golems:
Moonlight Butterfly:
Clam Enemies (Five-Legged Bivalves):
Crystal Lizards:

NPCs

Big Hat Logan:

Items

Key Items
Upgrade Materials
Miscellaneous

Walkthrough

Preparation

Path to Seath

  1. Entering the Cave:

    • Defeat or avoid Crystal Golems in the garden.
    • Pass through the fog gate into the Crystal Cave.
  2. Invisible Bridges:

    • Use floating crystal particles to locate safe paths. Dropping Prism Stones ensures visibility.
    • The first bridge leads to Humanity.
  3. Crystal Golem Section:

    • A stronger Crystal Golem guards a pathway leading to two routes:
      • Straight ahead: Leads to Seath’s arena.
      • Detour left: Leads to a Blue Titanite Slab.
  4. Final Bridge:

    • Carefully navigate the last bridge, which slopes downward toward Seath’s area.
  5. Clam Area:

    • Five Clams guard the path to Seath. Pull them one at a time to avoid being overwhelmed.
  6. Seath’s Arena:

    • Engage the boss after destroying the Primordial Crystal in the room.

Covenants

No covenant is directly associated with the Crystal Cave, but defeating Seath contributes to the Lordvessel questline.

Shortcuts

No traditional shortcuts exist. However:

Soul Farming

Notes

Trivia

Artorias of the Abyss DLC Locations


Artorias of the Abyss DLC Locations

Sanctuary Garden

sanctuarygarden-ds1.jpgSantuary Garden (過去森) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is the first location in the Artorias of the Abyss DLC.

Information

The Sanctuary Garden is the first area encountered in the Artorias of the Abyss DLC for Dark Souls. To access this content, specific prerequisites must be met (detailed below). This area is the gateway to the Royal Wood, Oolacile Township, and other sections of Oolacile, as players explore the past of Lordran.

Access Requirements

To enter the Sanctuary Garden, the following steps are necessary:

Area Bosses

Sanctuary Guardian

Walkthrough

Notes

Trivia

Artorias of the Abyss DLC Locations

Oolacile Sanctuary

oolacilesmausoleum-ds1.jpgOolacile Sanctuary (ウーラシールの霊廟) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible after the Sanctuary Garden, and provides access to the Royal Wood. 

Information

The Oolacile Sanctuary serves as the hub area in the Artorias of the Abyss DLC, where players encounter the serene yet mysterious Elizabeth, a large sentient mushroom who is a caretaker of Princess Dusk of Oolacile. The Sanctuary provides access to other key areas in Oolacile, including the Royal Wood and the Sanctuary Garden.

NPCs

Elizabeth, the Keeper of the Sanctuary

Items

Humanity:

Walkthrough

Notes

Trivia

Artorias of the Abyss DLC Locations

Royal Wood

sanctuarygarden-ds1.jpgRoyal Wood is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible via Oolacile Sanctuary, and leads to Oolacile Township. 

Information

The Royal Wood is a lush and mysterious forest reminiscent of the Darkroot Garden in Lordran. This area, part of the Artorias of the Abyss DLC, serves as the battlefield for epic encounters and key events. The forest is home to guardians, stone knights, and ancient secrets tied to the kingdom of Oolacile.

Area Bosses

Knight Artorias
Black Dragon Kalameet

Enemies

Wooden Guardians:
Stone Knights:

Merchants

Marvelous Chester
Hawkeye Gough

NPCs

Lord’s Blade Ciaran

Items

Armor
Consumables
Upgrade Materials
Unique Items

Walkthrough

Path to Artorias

  1. Progress through the lush woods, battling Guardian Knights and Stone Soldiers.
  2. Activate the elevator near the arena to unlock a shortcut.
  3. Defeat Knight Artorias in a challenging duel.

Path to Kalameet

  1. Head to the valley below the Royal Wood after speaking with Gough.
  2. If the player has the Crest Key, Gough will shoot down Kalameet, making the dragon fight accessible.

Shortcuts

Activate the elevator near Artorias’ arena to link the upper and lower parts of the Royal Wood for quicker traversal.

Soul Farming

Notes

Trivia

Artorias of the Abyss DLC Locations

Trial of Champions

trialofchampions-ds1.jpgThe Trial of Champions (試練の戦い) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible via Oolacile Township. 

Information

The Trial of Champions is an online-exclusive PvP arena introduced in the Artorias of the Abyss DLC. This area offers structured competitive battles across various formats, allowing players to test their mettle against others. The arena is conveniently located near the Oolacile Township Bonfire, just past the area where Knight Artorias is defeated. Players can participate in battles ranging from one-on-one duels to chaotic free-for-alls.

Rules

Arena Options

Starting a Match

Victory Conditions

Key Rules

Restricted Items

Certain items are not usable in the Trial of Champions:

Mechanics

Items

Notes

Trivia

Artorias of the Abyss DLC Locations

Oolacile Township

ollaciletown-ds1.jpgOolacile Township (ウーラシール市街) is a Location in Dark Souls. It is accessible via Royal Wood, and leads to the Chasm of the Abyss. 

Information

The Oolacile Township is a once-thriving city that has been corrupted by the Abyss, transforming its citizens into monstrous beings. This area features numerous enemies, dark magic-wielding sorcerers, and a variety of hidden treasures. The township connects to other key areas in the Artorias of the Abyss DLC and contains notable NPCs, shortcuts, and items.

Enemies

Oolacile Sorcerers

Items

Silver Pendant

Crest Key

Dark Orb:

Twin Humanities:

Dark Fog:

Red Titanite Chunk:

Mimic Faces:

Walkthrough

Entrance

Shortcuts

Notes

Trivia

Artorias of the Abyss DLC Locations

Chasm of the Abyss

chasmoftheabyss-ds1.jpgThe Chasm of the Abyss (深淵の穴) is the final  Location in Dark Souls Artorias of the Abyss DLC. It is accessible via Oolacile Township

Information

The Chasm of the Abyss is a dark and foreboding area within the Artorias of the Abyss DLC. The area is shrouded in darkness and inhabited by roaming Humanities, ethereal beings that embody the concept of human essence. It serves as the path to the final boss of the DLC, Manus, Father of the Abyss, and features key NPC interactions and hidden treasures.

Area Bosses

Manus, Father of the Abyss

Enemies

Humanities

NPCs

Alvina's Phantom
Great Grey Wolf Sif

Items

Shields

Magic

Upgrade Materials
Misc

Walkthrough

Shortcuts

Shortcut to the Royal Wood Boss Area:

Notes

Trivia