While The Ringed City is the second and final DLC for Dark Souls III, we're strategically placing its guide content here within the "Road of Sacrifices" section. This might seem unconventional, as the DLC is typically accessed much later in the game. However, for players aiming for a complete experience, exploring all available content, or simply curious about the lore connections that begin to subtly weave throughout the main game, understanding the eventual path to The Ringed City can be beneficial even at this earlier stage. Think of this as a foundational overview, preparing you for the grand finale of the Dark Souls saga when you eventually reach it.
The Ringed City DLC offers a breathtaking and challenging conclusion to the Dark Souls narrative, introducing new areas, formidable enemies, and some of the most iconic boss encounters in the series. By including it here, we aim to provide a holistic view of the game's progression, acknowledging that some players might wish to be aware of the DLC's existence and its eventual place in the grand scheme of things, even if they won't be tackling it for many hours yet. This section will briefly touch upon how to access it and what to expect, without spoiling the intricate details of its late-game challenges.
Accessing The Ringed City DLC requires you to defeat a specific boss in the Ashes of Ariandel DLC, or alternatively, the final boss of the main game. Given its placement here, we'll focus on the former. Once you've triumphed over Sister Friede in the Painted World of Ariandel, a new bonfire will appear in her arena. Interacting with this bonfire will present you with the option to travel to "The Dreg Heap," the initial area of The Ringed City. Be warned: this DLC is designed for high-level characters and presents some of the most difficult challenges in the entire game. Do not attempt to enter The Ringed City until you are well-equipped, leveled, and have a strong understanding of Dark Souls III's combat mechanics. This early mention is purely for informational purposes, allowing you to mentally prepare for the ultimate journey ahead.