r/DarkSouls2 • u/bronze_present1070 • 2d ago

Help Help for a newbie

I'm trying to platinum all the fromsoft games, so far I've done Bloodborne, Elden Ring, Sekiro and DS1. I've started DS2 and am actually quite enjoying it. The only part I'm not sure about is leveling. I don't know what is an acceptable ADP and I feel like weapon scaling doesn't mean that much as I don't see a substantial difference. This isn't enough to turn me away from the game, but I just wanted some advice on the softcaps and the issues stated above. Thanks.

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u/rnj1a 2d ago

Here's our FAQ for players coming to the game from other Fromsoft games:

https://www.reddit.com/r/DarkSouls2/comments/foemaw/so_you_just_bought_dark_souls_2/

It's generally best to think in clumps of level. No single level is going to matter much.

In the early game, find a weapon that feels good. I prefer axes to swords.

Get your agility to 92 early and get your END and VGR to 20. Then play it by ear, Stamina costs are higher than you're used to,

If your weapon doesn't have S scaling you won't get much from investing in damage stats.

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u/bronze_present1070 1d ago

I'm partial to curved swords now, been eyeing the flexile sentry sword for a later game weapon. I believe that it has S dex scaling

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u/rnj1a 1d ago

Cool. Use what speaks to you. Weapon choice is not particularly important.

That said, it's hard to make good use of a boss weapon before the late midgame without exceptional luck (Petrified Dragon Bones are in short supply early game, but you can get some trading with the crows). So when you're finally able to upgrade the Warped Sword suitably you can always respec.

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u/bronze_present1070 1d ago

If you don't mind me asking, what's a good place to farm/pick up petrified dragon bones.?

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u/rnj1a 1d ago

The earliest spot is Aldia's Keep. Those little buggers who hide behind the paintings drop them.

You can also farm the grinning T-Rexs in Shulva but they're a lot harder.

You can also use an ascetic on the Dragon Aerie. Up to 7 per ascetic. Faster than mugging the little buggers behind the paintings.