The Soldier Key
The Soldier Key is a crucial early-game item that unlocks several important pathways and valuable loot within the Forest of Fallen Giants. Obtaining it is a primary objective for progression and exploration in this area.
Acquisition Steps
Follow these detailed steps to secure the Soldier Key:
- Reach the Cardinal Tower Bonfire: This is the first bonfire you'll encounter in the Forest of Fallen Giants. Rest here and ensure you're prepared for combat.
- Navigate Towards the Giant's Tree:
- From the Cardinal Tower bonfire, proceed through the doorway and descend the ladder.
- You will find yourself on a ledge overlooking a courtyard. Deal with the Hollow Infantry and the spear-wielding Hollow Royal Soldier patrolling the area.
- Cross the wooden bridge. Be wary of the Hollow Royal Soldier archer on the far side.
- Immediately after the bridge, turn right and go through the archway. You'll enter a narrow passage.
- Encounter the Heide Knight:
- In the narrow passage, you'll spot a stationary Heide Knight. This enemy is optional but drops valuable equipment if defeated.
- Strategy: The Heide Knight is slow but hits hard. Circle strafe to its back for easy backstabs, or use ranged attacks if available. Be patient and don't get greedy.
- Regardless of whether you fight the Heide Knight, continue past it.
- Locate the Ladder and Descend:
- After the Heide Knight's location, you'll find a ladder leading down into a flooded area.
- Descend this ladder.
- Confront the Last Giant:
- You are now in the arena for the boss fight against the Last Giant.
- Boss Strategy: The Last Giant is a relatively straightforward boss. Stay close to its feet, attacking its ankles. Be prepared to roll through its stomp attacks and sweeping arm attacks. When it rips off its arm, its reach increases, so maintain vigilance.
- Claim the Soldier Key:
- Upon successfully defeating the Last Giant, you will be rewarded with the Soldier Key.
- Additionally, you will receive the Soul of the Last Giant.
Uses of the Soldier Key
The Soldier Key unlocks several critical areas and provides access to useful items:
- Ironclad Soldier Door: Back near the Cardinal Tower bonfire, there's a locked door guarded by an Ironclad Soldier. This door leads to a path that eventually connects to the Pursuer boss fight and provides access to the Ring of Restoration.
- Forest of Fallen Giants Shortcut: The key opens a door near the Soldier's Rest bonfire, creating a valuable shortcut back to the main area of the Forest, bypassing several enemies.
- Hidden Room near Cardinal Tower: There's a locked door on the ground floor of the Cardinal Tower, near the ladder leading down to the courtyard. This door opens to a small room containing a chest with valuable loot.
Obtaining the Soldier Key is a significant step in your journey through Drangleic, opening up new paths and opportunities for exploration and character development.