The fine folks over at FromSoftware have created a tough, trial by fire game titled Dark Souls. The series separates the casuals from the hardcore gamers, as it's such a tough game that only gets harder and harder as it's played. The PvE elements are already a challenge for the majority of players, with big bosses, many enemies, and even mini-bosses that take time to beat.
The PvP is something that gets occasionally overlooked, other players can "invade" a host's game and kill the host if they are not well prepared. Here are 10 tips to sway the fight in the host's favor.
10 Having The Right Gear
This goes without saying; in Dark Souls, regardless if it's on the PvE section or PvP, gear is a must. Going into a fight with an incoming invader, the host must be able to withstand high amounts of damage without being made vulnerable.
That comes from having the appropriate gear. Also, on top of that, the player needs to find a strong weapon. However, players that invade other players usually have high gear, so the host would need to accommodate for that. While it will vary depending on someone's build, the Elite Knight and Hallow Warrior sets are some well-balanced options. More than anything, focus on armor with high poise (or equip the Wolf Ring) as this will decrease the likelihood of getting stunned.
9 Having A Build That Works
The right build is also something to consider. Depending on what someone specializes in like Knight Builds, it can change the outcome of the fight. For more seasoned players, specifically tailored builds can work; for newcomers, many opt for a combo build which is a balanced class.
It does a decently high amount of damage and has a respectable amount of armor. Builds all depend on what the player is after, and having a guide that can show the player what they need to achieve. When the player has a better understanding of their build's strengths and weaknesses, then invaders become less of an issue. When it comes to the stats, it is best to prioritize vitality and endurance, which should be both above 40.
8 Parrying
This move allows the defender to land a follow-up attack. Even when missing an attack, parrying is a good fallback. Many pro-players can attest that parrying is safer than rolling out, as the latter gives invaders a chance to get an attack or two in.
Parrying will at least give the defender some breathing room without taking a hit. If done right, the defender can come back immediately with a stronger attack since the parry leaves the attacker off balance. Parrying makes it easier for the defender to stand their ground.
7 Having The Right Weapon
Much like gear, the weapon makes the defender. While stronger, two-handed weapons deal a ton of damage at once, they can be slow, leaving the attacker open to attacks or to have their own strikes stopped. Unless the player knows how to use the item and has great timing, they should stay away from two-handed weapons.
Two-handed weapons should be considered after one has experience playing Dark Souls. One-handed weapons, however, are good all around. Like the Straight Sword, it can do multiple attacks while not as a hard-hitting as most two-handed weapons. The sword can keep up the pressure and break the invaders' defense.
6 Bait The Enemy
Experienced players on both sides can use this tactic; however, for defenders, bringing in the enemy as close as possible can go both ways. If the defender is ready to go and alert, then they can lure in the attacker with a trap and come out swinging.
Also using spells that do damage while baiting in the enemy can help fight an invasion off. This tactic can work a few times for each invasion, so a lot of good players use it sparingly since the attacker will begin to notice and won't fall for it.
5 Anticipate The Enemy
Since it's a PvP match up, the defender needs to watch carefully what the invader is doing so. Remember that they are not a pre-programmed NPC with only a limited amount of movesets; therefore, the player needs to study the attacker.
Every move that the invader does could lead to a killing blow, so the defender needs to watch every step to pick an opening that allows for some serious damage.
4 Be Prepared
This goes without saying. When going up against an invader, going into the fight underprepared will never turn out well for the defender. Pro players usually have many potions ready to go with spells and an offhand tool.
Weapons and gear are something to look into before a fight. Players that are ready can easily improvise and adapt because they know what to expect. If most players took this approach more seriously when going up against another character, fights would be more even.
3 Don't Be Predictable
When a defender changes up the moveset quickly, that throws off the attackers. If the player is mixing things up, it will be harder for the invader to know the best way to attack, making it harder for them to adapt to the defender's moveset. Backstabs can be game-changers, even when up against much stronger enemies.
While having a plan of attack, defenders can still be unpredictable, that alone can put the fight in their favor. However, like most things in the game, it shouldn't be overdone. Defenders should be able to judge when to start altering their movesets.
2 Have A Strategy
Much like being prepared, having a plan is important. Of course, this strategy can change mid-fight depending on how the fight is going. Defenders should always be two steps ahead of the attacker, so when mapping out a new strategy they have time to change.
Going into a fight with all the gear, potions, and other things ready is great, but using them at the right time is another thing. Many defenders feel overburdened and don't try to implement a strategy on when to use the spells or other things. This can lead to players panicking, running out of stamina, and meeting a swift death.
1 Momentum
Momentum can quickly change if it's not maintained. By adding pressure, the defender can change the course of a fight, although that does not mean being overly aggressive. By making sure the attacker has no chance to respond, the defender can keep on pushing; however, this can all change, giving the attacker the advantage if the momentum isn't maintained.
To do so, defenders can use their spells and potions that will benefit them. Momentum is the product of the other things that are on to the list.