Co-op and PvP Guide: Summoning, Invasions, and Covenants
Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin offers a robust multiplayer experience, allowing players to assist or hinder each other. Understanding the mechanics of summoning, invasions, and covenants is key to navigating this aspect of the game.
Cooperative Play (Summoning)
To engage in cooperative play, you'll need to use a Small White S Soapstone or a White S Soapstone. These items allow you to place your summon s on the ground. Other players who are in a summonable state can then see your s and summon you into their world to help them defeat enemies or bosses. You can also be summoned by using a Crushed Orb near a phantom. Being summoned requires you to have a certain level of Soul Memory and be in the same general area as the host. Successfully helping a host defeat a boss will grant you souls and potentially other rewards.
Player vs. Player (PvP)
PvP encounters can occur in several ways. The most common is through invasions. Players who have joined covenants like the Red S Soapstone or the Brotherhood of Blood can invade other players' worlds. You can also be invaded by hostile NPCs. When invaded, a red phantom will appear in your world, and your goal is to defeat them. Conversely, you can invade other players by using a Cracked Red Eye Orb or by being part of an invasion-focused covenant.
Covenants
Covenants are factions that offer unique multiplayer interactions and rewards. Joining a covenant often requires finding a specific NPC or item. Some covenants focus on cooperation, while others are geared towards PvP.
- Way of the Blue: Offers protection from invasions if you are invaded while in this covenant.
- Blue Sentinels: If you are invaded, a member of the Blue Sentinels may be summoned to help you.
- Brotherhood of Blood: Focuses on PvP duels. Ranking up involves winning duels.
- Bell Keepers: Invades players who enter specific areas to defend them.
- Heirs of the Sun: Allows you to be summoned for cooperative play to help others defeat bosses.
- Pilgrims of the Dark: A covenant focused on challenging dark-based areas and bosses.
- Company of Champions: A covenant that increases difficulty but offers unique rewards for perseverance.
Soul Memory
Soul Memory is a crucial factor in matchmaking for both co-op and PvP. It is the total number of souls you have ever acquired, regardless of whether you have spent them. The game uses Soul Memory to pair players with similar soul counts, ensuring a more balanced experience. Be mindful of your Soul Memory when seeking co-op partners or engaging in PvP.
Invasions and Being Invaded
When you are in human form (or have used a Human Effigy), you are susceptible to invasions. Conversely, you can invade other players' worlds using specific items or covenants. Successful invasions grant souls and covenant progress. Being invaded can be a challenge, but it also offers opportunities to test your skills against other players.