10 Pro Tips to Survive Lothric as a New Undead in Dark Souls 3

Welcome to Lothric: A Beginner's Survival Guide

Dark Souls 3 is a brutal but rewarding journey. As a new Undead, the first steps into Lothric can be overwhelming. These ten tips will give you the edge you need to survive the early game and beyond.

1. Master the Art of Rolling

Rolling is your best defensive tool. Learn to dodge through attacks, not away from them. This gives you invincibility frames (i-frames) to avoid damage. Pay attention to your equip load: stay under 70% to maintain a fast roll.

2. Don't Hoard Souls; Spend Them

Souls are both currency and experience. Level up at Firelink Shrine as soon as you have enough souls. Investing in Vigor (HP) and Endurance (stamina) early makes a huge difference. Don't carry too many souls into unknown areas; you'll lose them.

3. Explore Thoroughly for Shortcuts

Levels are interconnected. Always look for ladders, elevators, and doors you can unlock from the other side. These shortcuts create safe paths from bonfires to boss arenas. For example, in High Wall of Lothric, find the lift that opens a shortcut back to the Tower on the Wall bonfire.

4. Use Your Environment

You can use the terrain to your advantage. Lure enemies into narrow corridors or off cliffs. Throwing knives and arrows can pull single foes from groups. Also, note that enemies can hurt each other, so lead them into traps or other enemies.

5. Learn to Parry Early

Parrying is risky but devastating. Practice on the hollow soldiers in the Cemetery of Ash. A successful parry opens enemies up for a critical riposte, often killing them instantly. Use a small shield or parrying dagger for easier timings.

6. Upgrade Your Weapon

Weapon upgrades matter more than your level. Find the Raw Gem early to infuse a weapon with Raw, which boosts base damage without scaling. Upgrade at the blacksmith in Firelink Shrine. A +3 weapon demolishes early enemies.

7. Summon Help Wisely

You can summon NPCs or other players for tough bosses. Use Embers to become human and see summon signs. But beware: being embered also opens you to invasions. Summoning makes bosses easier but increases their HP.

8. Manage Your Stamina

Every action consumes stamina. Never deplete your stamina bar completely. Leave some for a roll or block. The green bar recovers faster if you lower your shield between attacks.

9. Read Item Descriptions

Items often contain lore and hints. Key items' descriptions might tell you where to go or how to use them. For example, the Small Lothric Banner is used to access the Undead Settlement. Always read new items.

10. Don't Be Afraid to Run Past Enemies

Not every fight is mandatory. If you're low on Estus or just want to reach a boss, sprint past non-threatening enemies. Many areas have a run straight to the boss fog gate. Use this to practice without clearing everything.

With these tips, you'll find your footing in Lothric. Remember: patience, observation, and persistence are key. Good luck, Ashen One.