Key Takeaways
- Quality builds in Dark Souls 3 balance both Strength and Dexterity for versatile weapon use.
- Quality weapons like Dark Sword and Estoc offer great scaling and unique abilities for various builds.
- Weapons like Farron Greatsword and Black Knight Greataxe excel with high damage and range for PVE.
As someone who’s spent countless hours slashing through the dark and twisted lands of Lordran, I can confidently say that the Hollowslayer Greatsword is a weapon to be reckoned with. With its roots deeply embedded in the heart of the game, it’s a testament to the resilience and determination of even the most hardened Souls veterans.
The Dark Souls series holds a special place among FromSoftware’s popular games. Notably, it offers an exceptional level of customization in the realm of action RPGs, with Dark Souls 3 standing out as particularly rich in options. This game boasts a vast array of costumes, character builds, spells, and weapons to satisfy even the most discerning players.
In the midst of so many options, it’s crucial to distinguish the effective from the ineffective, and what suits a particular build from what doesn’t. To illustrate, we’ll be rating the top weapons for an optimal setup. An optimal setup is one that maintains a balance between Strength and Dexterity rather than overemphasizing either. This balance allows for a wider range of weapon usage, and moreover, certain weapons that scale with both Strength and Dexterity become exceptionally potent in this scenario.
14 Dark Sword
Hits Like A Darkwraith
Attack | 198 Physical |
Stat Requirements | 16 Strength, 15 Dexterity |
Scaling | Strength (B), Dexterity (B) |
The Dark Sword is a weapon that looks simple enough but weighs a ton and packs a punch. It is dropped by Darkwraiths, which can be found at the High Wall of Lothric or close to the Abyss Watchers boss door at Farron Keep.
Initially, the weapon was exceptionally powerful when it first came out, but later updates reduced its power level. Despite these changes, it remains an exceptional choice for both strength and quality-focused builds. Moreover, it’s the sole straight sword featuring the Stomp Weapon Art, making it a viable defensive option as well.
The best infusion for this sinister Straight Sword is Refined, for at +10, this grants the Dark Sword B-tier scaling in both strength and dexterity. Combined with its 198 physical attack, when fully upgraded, can lead to an excellent damage output.
13 Estoc
Elegant And Deadly
Attack | 189 Physical |
Stat Requirements | 10 Strength, 12 Dexterity |
Scaling | Strength (C), Dexterity (C) |
In simpler terms, when you pick the Assassin as your starting character class, you’ll receive an weapon called Estoc right off the bat. Alternatively, if you rescue Greirat from his prison at the High Wall of Lothric, he’ll sell you this Estoc for 3000 souls.
The Estoc is an excellent choice, particularly for those opting for a high-quality build. It’s also effective in various combat scenarios, such as thrusting enemies while using a shield or engaging in close-quarters combat without getting too close. Its speed, reach, and the Shield-Splitting Weapon Skill make it a formidable weapon against opponents in both PVP and PVE settings.
Just like many superiorly crafted weapons, the Estoc performs optimally when enhanced with a Refined infusion. At its maximum upgrade level, it gains C-tier scaling in both strength and dexterity, which complements its 189 physical attack well. Although it’s slightly less potent than the Dark Sword, this piercing blade makes up for it by being quicker, and its thrust attacks can capitalize on the additional counterattack damage unique to this damage type.
12 Farron Greatsword
An Aggressive And Flashy Moveset
Attack | 258 Physical |
Stat Requirements | Strength 18, Dexterity 20 |
Scaling | Strength (C), Dexterity (A) |
Immediately following the players’ defeat of the first Lord of Cinder, the Abyss Watchers, they might also acquire a Dark Sword by interacting with the Darkwraiths in the vicinity. Subsequently, this weapon can be transformed using the Soul of the Blood of the Wolf.
The Farron Greatsword, an Ultra Greatsword, shines in quality build setups. This weapon is distinctively designed by merging features of a Greatsword and a dagger. Its moveset stands out with a unique charm. In PVE scenarios, its broad, sweeping attacks are excellent for tackling numerous adversaries simultaneously. On the other hand, it may fall short in PVP, as it can be effortlessly parried during an attack.
The one-of-a-kind Farron Greatsword doesn’t allow infusions and can only be enhanced up to +5. However, when maximally enhanced by Andre of Astora, it offers C-level scaling in strength and A-level scaling in dexterity – an unusual trait for an Ultra Greatsword, possibly due to its light weight and the incorporated dagger in the offhand. It’s also worth mentioning that this weapon deals an extra 20% damage to foes and bosses linked to The Abyss, making it particularly effective against tougher enemies such as Darkwraiths, Pus of Men, as well as certain bosses like High Lord Wolnir and Darkeater Midir.
11 Lothric Knight Sword
A Simple Blade But Definitely Not Simple Damage
Attack | 185 Physical |
Stat Requirements | 11 Strength, 18 Dexterity |
Scaling | Strength (B), Dexterity (B) |
This basic-looking straight sword might appear unassuming initially, but it’s capable of dishing out an astonishing amount of damage in a brief period. In addition to its impressive base damage, it boasts the longest reach among all straight swords and shares the highest critical modifier (110) with another weapon. Furthermore, it comes equipped with the Stance Weapon Art, which inflicts substantial damage and can pierce through defenses.
To obtain this remarkable weapon, gamers might decide to fight and gather Lothric Knights, since they occasionally drop it. Alternatively, you can purchase it from Greirat for 4,000 souls once he has completely looted Irithyll Valley.
At level 10, the Enhanced potion imbues the blade with a B rank in both power and agility, making it one of the highest-tier weapons in the game. Additionally, it boasts a physical attack of 185 and the swift strike rate characteristic of a straight sword, allowing it to easily overwhelm both players and bosses.
10 Murakumo
A Curved Greatsword From Far Away Lands
Attack | 225 Physical |
Stat Requirements | 20 Strength, 18 Dexterity |
Scaling | Strength (B), Dexterity (B) |
To obtain Murakumo, you should navigate to Irithyll Dungeon and slay Alva, the Rejected Seeker. Notably, Murakumo stands out as the longest-curved greatsword in the game, boasting exceptional reach. In line with other curved greatswords, it features the Spin Slash Weapon Art and is equipped with robust hyper armor and misleading animations, granting it significant strength against fellow players.
It is also one of the few weapons in the game that can get a B scaling in both strength and dexterity with a Refined infusion. With this scaling and 225 physical attack at +10, Murakumo is a good option for quality builds, especially against aggressive foes or in PVP.
9 Black Knight Sword
The Dark Sword’s Older Brother
Attack | 302 Physical |
Stat Requirements | 20 Strength, 18 Dexterity |
Scaling | Strength (C), Dexterity (D) |
In the game, the Black Knight’s Sword is often considered among the top weapons for Player vs Environment (PVE), primarily because of its robust poise stance and the ability known as “Perseverance.” This feature can be effectively utilized to inflict substantial damage on opponents.
In the Smouldering Lake, you’ll discover a corpse holding the Black Knight Sword. This weapon boasts good range and speed, making it an excellent choice among the Black Knight’s arsenal. Plus, it’s kind to your stamina bar. If used wisely, this reliable sword can guide players through the entire game.
A player with average strength (C-tier) and below-average dexterity (D-tier) won’t significantly boost the Black Knight Sword’s attack rating with their stats. Instead, its base damage and a 20% bonus against all demonic opponents at level +5 will be more impactful. It deals an impressive 302 physical attacks.
8 Black Knight Greataxe
For Players Who Really Want To Send A Message
Attack | 350 Physical |
Stat Requirements | 36 Strength, 18 Dexterity |
Scaling | Strength (C), Dexterity (D) |
The Black Knight’s Greataxe is another terrific option for PVE combat. You can acquire this weapon as a random drop from Black Knights who are equipped with a Greataxe. It boasts impressive damage output, a diverse set of moves, and a broad attack range to top it off.
This weapon stands out for numerous reasons, and one of them is its unique ability called “War Cry.” With this feature, it enhances your attack power by 10%. Furthermore, it has an inherent advantage over demons, dealing with 20% extra damage – a trait shared by all black knight weapons. This makes it an ideal selection for a specific game location due to its demon-targeting capabilities.
Similar to the Black Knight’s Sword, this powerful Greataxe has C-level scaling in strength and D-level scaling in agility. Yet, its mighty +5 enhancement raises its physical attack to 350, making it quite formidable. Additionally, its weapon skill offers a distinctive attack sequence that provides hyper armor for effective poise during most attacks, while delivering massive counterattacks in response.
7 Profaned Greatsword
A Beautiful Golden Blade Wreathed In Flames
Attack | 294 Physical |
Stat Requirements | 22 Strength, 10 Dexterity |
Scaling | Strength (C), Dexterity (C) |
Once players successfully conquer Pontiff Sulyvahn in battle, some might choose to expend his Soul out of sheer irritation and exasperation from the fight, or transfer it with 3000 souls to obtain the Profaned Greatsword – an exceptional weapon that excels in both Player vs. Player (PVP) and Player vs. Environment (PVE) combat scenarios.
As a devoted gamer, I can vouch that this toolpacks quite a punch, yet truly shines when crafted with care. Though it might not be the ultimate end-boss slayer, it’s an exceptional ally during my early game adventures – a reliable companion until I find something even more formidable later on.
The Profaned Greatsword, with C-tier scaling in both power and agility, primarily caters to quality build-focused playstyles. Yet, when fully upgraded to +5, it boasts an impressive physical attack of 294, which is worthy of note. Its distinct ability, Profaned Flame, adds a fiery enhancement to the sword, further amplifying its lethal potential.
6 Claymore
Sometimes Reliability Is Worth Far More Than Complexity
Attack | 248 Physical |
Stat Requirements | 16 Strength, 13 Dexterity |
Scaling | Strength (C), Dexterity (C) |
The Claymore can be obtained from foes carrying it in Irithyll of the Boreal Valley or at the High Wall of Lothric by the fiery dragon. This weapon is likely one of the most well-balanced Greatswords, offering a blend of reach, speed, and power.
This character boasts an impressive arsenal of moves and performs exceptionally well when paired with robust or high-quality build types. Its broad attack sweep can effortlessly overwhelm weaker opponents, while its strong thrust is particularly effective against other players during Player vs Player (PVP) combat.
At a +10 upgrade, the Claymore undergoes a refined enhancement, boosting its C-tier scaling in both strength and dexterity. Additionally, it boasts a robust physical attack stat of 248. The weapon’s unique skill, Stance, allows for a swift light attack to breach an opponent’s guard, followed by a powerful upward slash and charge with a strong attack.
5 Gotthard Twinswords
Dual Blades To Carve Up Even The Toughest Bosses
Attack | 180 Physical |
Stat Requirements | 12 Strength, 18 Dexterity |
Scaling | Strength (B), Dexterity (B) |
These matching swords are capable of swiftly shred through opponents and completely deplete boss health gauges. They boast the greatest range among all paired straight swords, allowing them to transition from attacks into the Spin Slash Weapon Art, a feature that makes them highly sought-after even in player versus player combat. To acquire them, the player needs to first defeat Aldrich, Yhorm, and the Abyss Watchers. Once these formidable blades are defeated, they can be found situated outside the Grand Archives.
Beyond boasting an exceptionally swift strike rate and a potent physical attack of 180, these blades are further equipped with B rankings in both strength and dexterity. This versatile combination makes them a highly dependable choice for slicing through the toughest adversaries, and they rank among the top choices for any character development strategies.
4 Astora Greatsword
Great Range And Attack Speed
Attack | 237 Physical |
Stat Requirements | 16 Strength, 18 Dexterity |
Scaling | Strength (B), Dexterity (B) |
In simpler terms, the Astora Greatsword is the lightest sword of its kind in the game, offering players greater freedom in distributing skill points. You can find it on a body in the graveyard close to the Cleansing Chapel within the Cathedral of the Deep.
The Astora Greatsword is primarily geared towards stamina, similar to other Ultra Greatswords. It boasts a long range, and although it excels in PVE, its Weapon Art can dish out significant damage to opponents in PVP. For quality builds, infusing it with Refined is highly recommended.
At level 10, Enhanced Brew offers outstanding B-rank scaling in both power and agility; boasting some of the top dual-scaling among quality build weapons, comparable only to the Dark Sword. While its physical attack of 237 isn’t particularly high compared to other Ultra Greatswords, its energy-efficient attacks allow for a higher rate of use without requiring as much rest, resulting in greater damage per second overall.
3 Exile Greatsword
A Wicked Slab of Metal
Attack | 266 Physical |
Stat Requirements | 24 Strength, 16 Dexterity |
Scaling | Strength (B), Dexterity (B) |
Among all the curved greatswords, none surpasses The Exile Greatsword in terms of raw damage output. However, this superiority comes at a price – its reach is significantly limited. Its weapon art, Spin Slash, is a valuable ability that inflicts heavy damage on surrounding enemies, making it an indispensable skill for combat.
As a dedicated enthusiast, I’d like to share a tip: You can acquire an exceptional curved Greatsword from the Farron Keep. Two Exile Watchdogs guarding a ladder near there are its keepers. This weapon has earned a reputation among quality build fans as it is frequently used in the community due to its superior performance when it comes to curved Greatswords.
With a B-tier upgrade in both power and agility, you get a fantastic attack score when used with the Exile Greatsword, which has a physical attack of 266 at +10 Refined enhancement. This weapon, much like others in its category, is perfect for knocking enemies off balance and locking them into a rapid succession of attacks leading to an early demise.
2 Gael’s Greatsword
A Broken Blade Taken From A Broken Man
Attack | 268 Physical |
Stat Requirements | 19 Strength, 13 Dexterity |
Scaling | Strength (C), Dexterity (D) |
In my gaming adventures, I stumbled upon this badass shattered sword, which I managed to acquire by swapping the Soul of the Slave Knight Gael. This baby packs a punch with some top-notch damage and speed that’ll make any enemy quiver in fear. Since it came from the final boss of the Ringed City DLC, let me tell you, it ain’t for the faint-hearted. It’s a late-game item alright, and it took quite a bit of grind to get my hands on it.
The weapon’s combat style is called “Dangerous Blade,” which propels the player into a leaping assault, allowing them to either execute a broad sweep or a powerful smash afterward. This versatile move enables the player to either clear out a cluster of enemies or inflict heavy damage on a single foe.
Equipped with a good balance of strength and dexterity, this weapon excels when wielded by a well-rounded character, capable of dealing significant damage (268 base) to powerful enemies encountered in later stages of the game.
1 Hollowslayer Greatsword
Not Just For Hollows
Attack | 264 Physical |
Stat Requirements | 14 Strength, 18 Dexterity |
Scaling | Strength (D), Dexterity (C) |
For top-notch construction, gamers will find no mistake in wielding the Hollowslayer Greatsword. This weapon becomes accessible upon vanquishing the Curse-Ridden Greatwood through Soul transposition using the Soul of the Rotted Greatwood and a total of 1000 souls as prerequisite.
This weapon excels at damaging hollow creatures, dealing an extra 20% damage to them. Since many game opponents are hollow, this added power is beneficial. Additionally, it’s versatile because players can hold it with one hand and a shield, making it advantageous in player versus player scenarios.
This Greatsword has a weaker scaling in both strength (D-tier) and dexterity (C-tier), which helps maintain balance within the game. However, at its maximum +5 level, it boasts an impressive 264 physical attack, making it more than capable of defeating hollowed enemies, as suggested by its name. Furthermore, the bonus damage can prove useful not only against common hollowed enemies but also on specific bosses like the Deacons of the Deep and the later stages of Slave Knight Gael.
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2024-10-03 03:55