Main Walkthrough

Welcome, Ashen One, to the comprehensive Main Walkthrough for Dark Souls III. This section will serve as your guiding light through the treacherous lands of Lothric, from the very first steps in the Cemetery of Ash to the climactic confrontation with the Soul of Cinder. Prepare to face formidable foes, uncover hidden secrets, and ultimately decide the fate of the First Flame.

Within these pages, you will find detailed, step-by-step instructions for navigating each area, identifying crucial items, and overcoming the numerous challenges that stand between you and your destiny. We will cover optimal routes, highlight important NPCs, and provide strategies for every boss encounter. Whether you're a seasoned veteran of the Souls series or a newcomer to its unforgiving world, this walkthrough is designed to equip you with the knowledge and confidence needed to conquer Dark Souls III.

Our goal is not just to get you through the game, but to help you understand its intricate mechanics and lore. Pay close attention to item descriptions, environmental cues, and the advice of the few friendly faces you'll encounter. The journey ahead is long and arduous, but with this guide, you will be well-prepared to link the fire, or usher in an age of darkness, as you see fit.

Cemetery of Ash

Your journey begins in the desolate Cemetery of Ash, a fitting starting point for an Unkindled. This introductory area serves as a tutorial, familiarizing you with the basic controls and combat mechanics of Dark Souls III. Your primary objective here is to reach the Firelink Shrine, but not before facing your first true test.

Upon awakening, proceed forward, collecting the Broken Straight Sword from the corpse near your starting point. Engage the Hollows you encounter to practice your attacks, dodges, and parries. Remember to lock onto enemies for better control. As you move through the cemetery, you'll find a Soul of a Lost Undead, which can be consumed for a small amount of souls. pick up the Estus Flask and Ashen Estus Flask from the fountain – these are your primary means of healing and restoring FP, respectively. A crucial item to find early is the Coiled Sword, which you will use to activate the bonfire at Firelink Shrine. It's located on the body of a large, sword-wielding Hollow near the entrance to the next area.

Before you can truly leave the Cemetery of Ash, you must confront the first boss: Iudex Gundyr. This encounter is designed to test your understanding of the game's combat. Focus on learning his attack patterns and finding openings for your own strikes. Don't be afraid to use your Estus Flasks. Once Gundyr is defeated, activate the bonfire and proceed through the large doors to Firelink Shrine.