Embarking on a journey through Lothric can be an incredibly daunting task for players stepping into Dark Souls 3 for the first time. Selecting the right starting equipment early in the game can fundamentally alter your survival rate and overall progression momentum. By prioritizing versatile armaments found within the opening zones, you can establish a reliable build without struggling against initial difficulty spikes.
The Reliable Longsword and Broadsword Option
For players seeking a straightforward and highly dependable approach to combat, the standard straight sword class remains unmatched. The Broadsword can be discovered early within the High Wall of Lothric and offers exceptionally high base damage for minimal stat investment. Its horizontal sweeping attacks are perfect for managing aggressive crowds of smaller hollow enemies.
Alternatively, the classic Longsword provides a highly versatile moveset that excels in both open areas and tight corridors. It features a reliable thrusting attack that allows players to maintain safe distance during intense duels. Both options scale beautifully with various elemental infusions, making them viable choices throughout your entire adventure.
Unlocking the Power of the Early Claymore
If you prefer crushing your opponents with heavy, poise-breaking strikes, tracking down the iconic Claymore should be your top priority. Located on a raised platform guarded by a fire-breathing dragon at the High Wall of Lothric, this greatsword is well worth the risky dash. It delivers a perfect balance of substantial damage output and manageable swing speed for newer characters.
The true strength of this weapon lies in its exceptional stance weapon art, which can easily break through the shields of formidable Lothric Knights. Utilizing its wide horizontal slashes helps players control groups of enemies before becoming overwhelmed. It serves as an excellent foundational choice for anyone building a dedicated strength or quality character.
Farming the Lethal Lothric Knight Straight Sword
For players who prefer precision and high critical damage, investing time to farm the knights roaming the initial castle area yields incredible rewards. The Lothric Knight Straight Sword is widely celebrated by veterans as one of the finest overall weapons in the entire game. It requires slightly higher dexterity to wield effectively, but its performance justifies the stat points.
This exceptional weapon features an improved critical modifier that severely punishes enemies after a successful parry or guard break. Its excellent reach allows you to poke targets safely from behind a sturdy shield. Infusing it with a Refined or Raw Gem early on provides consistent damage progression across early biomes.
The Devastating Uchigatana Dexterity Choice
Dexterity enthusiasts can secure a powerful slicing weapon almost immediately after arriving at the Firelink Shrine hub. By defeating the hostile Sword Master residing just outside the tower entrance, players can claim the legendary Uchigatana katana. This weapon introduces a deadly auxiliary bleed effect that drains enemy health pools rapidly during prolonged engagements.
Its unique skill allows players to enter a parry stance or execute a lightning-fast upward slash that catches agile targets off-guard. The rapid attack velocity ensures you can land multiple hits and retreat before a boss can retaliate effectively. It remains a premier choice for survivors aiming for an agile, high-damage playstyle.