Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin
Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin

Ship Arrival

Survive your arrival at No-man's Wharf in Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin. This guide covers initial landings and descends into a dangerous area.

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Ship Arrival

Upon arriving at No-man's Wharf via the ship from the Lost Bastille, you'll find yourself in a precarious position. This area is teeming with enemies, and the layout can be disorienting, especially in the dark. Prepare for a challenging descent and be mindful of ambushes.

Initial Landing and Descent

  • Disembarkation: Once the ship docks, you'll step onto a small wooden platform. Immediately look for a path leading downwards.
  • First Enemy Encounter: As you descend the initial steps, you'll likely encounter a few Hollow Infantry or Varangian Sailors. These enemies are relatively weak but can quickly overwhelm you in groups. Prioritize taking them out one by one.
  • Illumination: The wharf is notoriously dark. If you have a Torch, now is an excellent time to equip it. The light will not only help you see but also deter some of the more aggressive enemies, particularly the Darkdwellers that lurk in the shadows.

Navigating the Lower Docks

  • Path to the Left: After the initial descent, you'll have a choice of paths. Taking the path to the left leads to a dead end with a few items but also more enemies.
    • Item Acquisition: At the end of this path, you can find a Soul of a Proud Knight and a Large Soul of a Lost Undead on a corpse. Be wary of a hidden Darkdweller that may ambush you from the shadows near these items.
  • Main Path Forward (Right): The main route continues straight ahead or slightly to the right. This path will lead you deeper into the wharf.
    • Ambush Point: As you proceed, keep an eye out for Varangian Sailors hiding behind crates and structures. They often try to flank you.
    • Wooden Bridge: You'll soon cross a rickety wooden bridge. Be cautious, as enemies can knock you off if you're not careful.
    • First Building: After the bridge, you'll enter a small building. Inside, you'll likely find more Varangian Sailors. Clear them out and search for any hidden items.

Key Items and Strategies

  • Torch Management: Your torch is invaluable here. If you find yourself running low on torch time, remember you can extinguish it and relight it at a bonfire.
  • Environmental Hazards: Be aware of the water. While not immediately deadly, falling into it can slow you down and make you vulnerable to attacks.
  • Enemy Variety: You'll encounter a mix of Hollow Infantry, Varangian Sailors (some with shields, others with two-handed weapons), and the elusive Darkdwellers. Darkdwellers are particularly vulnerable to light.
  • Ranged Options: If you have a bow or crossbow, consider using it to pick off enemies from a distance, especially those positioned on higher platforms or in groups.