Depths: Swirling Flood
The Depths: Swirling Flood is a challenging area characterized by its watery environments and numerous enemies. This guide will help you navigate its treacherous paths, locate valuable items, and overcome the threats within.
Walkthrough
Upon entering the Depths: Swirling Flood, you'll find yourself at the Mistle. This serves as your primary checkpoint and fast travel point for the area. From here, your objective is to locate and activate three distinct levers to open the path forward.
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First Lever:
- From the Mistle, proceed straight ahead.
- You'll encounter several Lost Assassins and Lost Spearmen patrolling the initial watery pathways. Engage them carefully, using your companion's support.
- Follow the main path until you reach a slightly elevated platform. The first lever is located here. Activate it.
- Item Alert: Near the first lever, check the corners for a chest containing Queen Steel x3.
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Second Lever:
- After activating the first lever, backtrack slightly and look for an alternate path that branches off to the right (when facing away from the first lever).
- This path will lead you through a more confined area, often patrolled by Lost Hunters and the occasional Armored Lost. Be prepared for close-quarters combat.
- Navigate through the winding corridors, keeping an eye out for hidden enemies.
- You will eventually reach a larger, open chamber with a central pillar. The second lever is situated on one side of this pillar. Activate it.
- Item Alert: In the chamber with the second lever, search behind the central pillar for a hidden item: Awake MJ310 x1.
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Third Lever:
- From the second lever's location, exit the chamber through the opposite opening.
- You'll enter a section with deeper water, slowing your movement. Be wary of Waterborne Lost that can ambush you from the depths.
- Follow the submerged path, which will eventually lead you to a small, dry island.
- The third and final lever is located on this island. Activate it.
- Item Alert: Before activating the third lever, explore the edges of the island for a sparkling item, which is usually a Pure Blood x1.
After Activating All Levers
Once all three levers are activated, a previously sealed gate near the Mistle will open, granting access to the final section of the Depths: Swirling Flood. This path typically leads to a boss encounter or the exit to the next main area.
- Return to the Mistle.
- Proceed through the newly opened gate.
- Be prepared for a significant encounter. The path beyond the gate often features stronger variants of the Lost or a unique boss. Ensure your blood veils, weapons, and Gifts are optimized for combat.
- Important: Consider resting at the Mistle and stocking up on healing items and buffs before proceeding through the final gate.
Enemy Encounters & Strategies
- Lost Assassin: Fast and agile. Dodge their quick attacks and counter-attack during their recovery frames.
- Lost Spearman: Can keep you at a distance with their spears. Close the gap quickly and interrupt their thrusts.
- Lost Hunter: Often found in groups. Prioritize taking them out one by one to avoid being overwhelmed.
- Armored Lost: Heavily armored, requiring more hits to defeat. Focus on breaking their guard or finding openings after their slower attacks.
- Waterborne Lost: Ambush predators in deep water. Listen for their distinctive sounds and be ready to dodge when they emerge.
Recommended Gifts & Blood Veils
Given the watery terrain and varied enemy types, consider the following:
- Mobility Gifts: Gifts like Shift or Haste can be invaluable for navigating the slower water sections and dodging enemy attacks.
- Area-of-Effect (AoE) Gifts: For dealing with groups of Lost, AoE Gifts such as Blast Bolt or Crimson Longinus can clear out multiple enemies efficiently.
- Stamina Management: Gifts that restore or boost stamina, like Adrenaline, are crucial for maintaining offensive pressure and evasive maneuvers.
- Blood Veils: A lightweight Blood Veil will enhance your mobility, while a heavier one might offer more defense against the harder-hitting Armored Lost. Choose based on your preferred playstyle.