10 Best NPC Summons in Soulsborne Games

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The Soulsborne video game series is quite demanding, but it’s not rocket science to grasp that point. However, don’t be misled by the term ‘challenging’; these games can be as tough or as simple as you choose to make them.

These titles offer difficulty settings, albeit without a visible difficulty slider. Summoning Non-Player Characters (NPCs) can be seen as FromSoftware’s interpretation of an easier play mode.

What I’m trying to convey is that it doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong by employing those strategies. Instead, enjoy the game in the manner that suits you best, because ultimately, fun should be the goal.

Utilizing certain summons can further envelop you within this realm, as some come with storylines intertwined. These can aid you or require your assistance in return. If you spot a symbol on the ground, don’t think twice about calling for reinforcements before diving headfirst into combat.

From my perspective, I’ll be focusing on how these characters perform in combat situations, as well as their significance within the narrative and the role they play in the unfolding events.

10.
Black Iron Tarkus — Dark Souls 1

Mightiest of the Berenike Knights

Summon Locations:

  • Sen’s Fortress

Truth be told, Tarkus doesn’t have many distinctive features, but he’s undeniably beloved by fans thanks to his massive stature and relentless aggression during fights.

Actually, you can call upon him right before the battle against the Iron Golem, leaving you to take a well-deserved break as this valiant hero takes care of the combat on your behalf.

Nothing’s cooler than a colossal knight brandishing a humongous greatsword engaging in a David-versus-Goliath-like battle royal. Alas, Tarkus wouldn’t advance much more, meeting his end at the hands of the Guardians of the Painting in Anor Londo. Though he’s no longer here, he will never be forgotten.

9.
Amnesiac Lapp — Dark Souls 3

“I Swear Upon My Birth Name That I Am Your Friend”

Summon Locations:

  • The Dreg Heap
  • The Ringed City (Spear of the Church)

Beyond being incredibly helpful during the boss battles of the Ringed City, Lapp’s narrative is not just interesting, but it’s downright peculiar and intriguingly captivating; you might even find yourself gaping in astonishment by its conclusion.

Lapp is none other than Patches! A hint for the uninitiated: If you haven’t played this game already, then one must wonder what keeps you occupied.

The Demon Prince is undeniably a challenging opponent, and although Lapp may not single-handedly defeat the boss like Tarkus, he will indeed serve as an exceptional defensive barrier, given his large shield and Splitleaf Greatsword. And yes, he’ll be taking swigs from that flask.

When the demons are persistent, it’s perfectly okay to ask for help. And rest assured, Lapp won’t deceive you at a later point, right?

8.
Biorr of the Twin Fangs — Demon’s Souls

Brothers In Arms

Summon Locations:

  • World 1-3
  • World 1-4

As I delved into this game, not claiming it to be the toughest in the Soulsborne lineup, I can attest that it still packs a punch with its challenging fights. The Penetrator, without a doubt, stands out as one of the trickiest adversaries, thanks to his extended reach and magic-resistant defenses.

If you find yourself in a tough spot health-wise or struggling with evasive maneuvers, consider bringing Biorr into the fray for assistance. He’s quite sturdy and packs a powerful punch, making him an ideal ally to help turn the tide of battle. With his aid, you might just have enough time to launch your counterattack.

However, this isn’t his only role. If he manages to overcome the Penetrator battle, he could also act as a diversion for you to dash past the wrath of the Blue Dragon. Regrettably, it seems likely that he will perish in this encounter, but his death was a noble one.

7.
Recusant Bernahl — Elden Ring

The Volcano Manor Awaits You

Summon Locations:

  • Crumbling Faram Azula

Bernahl is another non-player character who rarely gets into battles. However, the single battle where he can aid you is particularly challenging, and undoubtedly, he balances out the fight to make it more equitable.

If you’re not exploiting the sleep mechanic, the Godskin Duo is infamously challenging. Luckily, Bernahl can turn this into a 2-vs-2 fight. Since he has natural durability, it gives you a better opportunity to catch your breath while he does some heavy lifting.

Furthermore, his tale is quite compelling, and should you opt to vanquish Rykard prior, he will assail you at Crumbling Faram Azula at a later time. He’s both ally and adversary; beware as this seasoned knight will not yield easily in battle.

6.
Sellsword Luet — Dark Souls 2

The Body Of A Mountain

Summon Locations:

  • Forest of Fallen Giants
  • Sinner’s Rise
  • Drangleic Castle
  • Aldia’s Kepp
  • Frozen Eleum Loyce

The initial summoning characters in the game weren’t particularly noteworthy, and their artificial intelligence left much to be desired. Recognizing this while working on the remake, the developers chose to create more impressive summons instead!

Among the many characters, Sellsword Luet stands out, particularly when he brandishes not one but two Shields of Glory. Clad in Havel’s armor, this warrior embodies the essence of a ‘Titan’ or ‘Bulwark’!

His primary asset lies in his skill to capture focus and maintain it persistently. Notably, unlike other summons who appear fleetingly, he provides aid during crucial battles throughout your adventure. If you’re having trouble surmounting the Looking Glass Knight’s shield, think about summoning Luet and attacking the boss from behind!

5.
Slave Knight Gael — Dark Souls 3

Consumed By The Dark

Summon Locations:

  • Painted World of Araindel
  • The Dreg Heap

Gael serves as an intriguing figure, taking on the role of the final adversary in the Ringed City DLC, yet he is also a comrade whom you can call upon to aid you in two especially tough boss battles.

For those finding the three-stage battle in the Ashes of Ariandel DLC challenging, summoning Gael can give you a bit of an edge. He inflicts substantial damage and, although he won’t single-handedly win this fight, his presence will help you consistently progress to stage 3. In stage 3, the one-on-one battle becomes more evenly matched.

Moreover, this character is also capable of assisting you in battling the Demon Prince boss; he’ll excel in this role, inflicting substantial damage. However, when you encounter him again later, that’s where the real challenge arises. By the end of his tragic tale and ultimate fall, you might find yourself moved to tears.

4.
Valtr, Master Of The League — Bloodborne

Vermin Slayer, Beast Eater

Summon Locations:

  • Hunter’s Nightmare
  • Nightmare Church

Valtr stands out as one of the formidable NPCs you should keep an eye on while navigating the expansion pack. Notably, he can be called upon for two exceptionally challenging boss battles, and rest assured, he’ll live up to your expectations.

Should you find yourself having difficulty with Laurence or Ludwig, fear not, for Valtr is here to help! He deals significant damage and skillfully diverts their focus towards him, making those battles noticeably easier.

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but marvel at the fact that he carries the Whirligig Saw – hands down, one of the most awesome weapons in the game. If only I could somehow bring him to life for the Orphan of Kos, now wouldn’t that be something amazing? Alas, it’s merely a dream for now.

3.
Drake Warrior Igon — Elden Ring

Curse You, Bayle!

Summon Locations:

  • Jagged Peak

Individuals who have delved into Moby Dick can undoubtedly empathize with this man’s suffering, as Igon alludes to the character of Captain Ahab and his relentless pursuit of the white whale, an intriguing detail indeed.

Even though Igon may not be the most essential NPC to summon in the game world, his captivating story and extraordinary voice lines make him irresistible. In fact, during this particular battle, I believe summoning Igon is crucial as he can finally deliver his well-deserved retribution on that wretched Dragon!

People who played the game at its launch are well aware of the numerous memes and compilation videos that surfaced, and let me tell you, it was a truly memorable experience. In terms of grand cinematic battles overflowing with emotion and intensity, the fight against Bayle, joining forces with Igon, ranks among the most profound in all of Souls series’ annals, and I suspect I’ll remember it for quite some time to come.

2.
Bashful Ray — Dark Souls 2

Binocular Enthusiast

Summon Locations:

  • Huntsman’s Copse
  • Black Gulch
  • Earthen Peak
  • Brightstone Cove Tseldora
  • Drangleic Castle

As a gamer, let me tell you about Bashful Ray, a character who might not boast an epic tale but is undeniably one of the most valuable non-player characters I’ve encountered.

Apart from utilizing him to eliminate pesky regions swarming with foes, you can also take him along for numerous boss battles, showcasing his extraordinary skills in those encounters as well.

Ray adopts two strategies: he charges straight up using a pair of Umbral Daggers or keeps his distance by using pyromancy. Moreover, he boasts an extraordinary health pool and even has self-healing abilities! Ray proves to be versatile and an excellent ally, helping you tackle some of the toughest bosses in the game.

The original character summonings, skillfully crafted by the Scholar of the First Sin, have become invaluable and integrated elements of the game’s universe, boasting unique personalities and driving forces.

1.
Solaire of Astora — Dark Souls 1

Praise The Sun!

Summon Locations:

  • Undead Parish
  • Depths
  • Anor Londo
  • Demon Ruins
  • Kiln of the First Flame

Without a doubt, Solaire ranks first on our list. He’s nearly synonymous with bonfires in the Soulsborne series these days, serving as an unofficial mascot.

However, his fame is not undeserved. Solaire isn’t just summonable for numerous battles without making an impression, but he also carries a deeply moving, tragic backstory.

For individuals seeking fun teamwork and eager to prevent Solaire from a premature infestation by Sunlight Maggot, they’ll be generously compensated, as Solaire could aid you in battling him too.

Solaire stands out in the game’s grim landscape with his infectious optimism, stylish attire, and meme-worthy moments, making him a beloved figure of the series, and it’s great to have him along as we plunge into the chaos. At times, I can’t help but envy such radiant resilience.

Keep hunting, Solaire. You’ll find your sun one day.

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2025-05-03 16:10