Navigating the Perils of Lordran and Beyond: A Deep Dive into the Way of Blue Covenant
You have taken a bold step into the harsh realm of Dark Souls. Good for you, or maybe, condolences. Invasions happen often. Some hollowed fiend may have skills in backstabbing. Do not worry, new undead. The Way of Blue covenant can help.
What in the Blue Hell is the Way of Blue Covenant Anyway?
Let us get to the point. What is the Way of Blue? It serves as your panic button. Imagine strolling through the grim settings of Dark Souls. You admire the decay, then BAM! An invader appears. Being in the Way of Blue is like sending a distress signal. You yell “Help! I need backup!”
But who responds? Enter the Blue Sentinels and Blades of the Darkmoon. They are like morally ambiguous knights in Dark Souls. The Blue Sentinels in Dark Souls 2 protect members of the Way of Blue. They act like a neighborhood watch, showing up with swords to handle any invader.
Way of Blue vs. Blue Sentinels: A Tale of Two Blues
These two can be confusing. The Way of Blue is for players who need help. The Blue Sentinels protect them and want to provide that help. One is the waiting victim, while the other is the one with the weapon. In Dark Souls, armor is often a dull grey more than shiny silver.
In Dark Souls 2, this is clear. Join the Way of Blue, and a Blue Sentinel will come if you are invaded. It helps newer players against tough invasions. Dark Souls is hard enough without some player making you practice for them.
Is the Way of Blue Actually… Good?
The big question remains: “Is the Way of Blue good?” That depends on your view of “good.” It also depends on how much you trust strangers to help in combat.
Let’s be honest: the Way of Blue will not make you a PvP champion. It offers no great rewards or powerful skills. Some players note that being in the Way of Blue “gives no long term reward.” Ouch. Unlike other covenants, there are no ranks or titles and no big loot rewards to find. It’s purely support for struggling players.
So, is it “good”? For new players getting invaded, yes, it can be a lifesaver. It gives you a chance for backup when facing invaders. It eases the pain of early invasions. Think of it as training wheels in online play. Eventually, you may not need them, but they help at the start.
What Does One Do With the Way of Blue? Exist, Mostly.
“What can you do with Way of Blue?” The truth is you do not do much. You equip the covenant item, described in Dark Souls 3 as “pale blue sheepskin parchment with an illustration of the moon.” Ignoring the fancy details, all you do is wear it. There are no quests or tasks tied to the covenant.
You just continue playing normally but have a better chance of a blue phantom coming if you get invaded. It is passive support, like wearing a lucky charm. But it only works because you might get help sometimes. Don’t expect to engage in covenant activities actively; you just receive.
Should You Embrace the Azure Path? The Case for and Against
“Should I use Way of Blue?” Let’s consider the pros and cons here.
Pros:
- Beginner-Friendly Lifeline: For new players, it helps with invasions and brings some comfort. This leads to an online experience without being stomped constantly.
- Passive Protection: Just equip the item and go about your undead business without special efforts.
- Learn from Blues: When helped by a Blue Sentinel, you can learn about combat, assuming they know what they are doing.
Cons:
- Unreliable Assistance: Summoning does not guarantee action. You must be in a proper area with a compatible soul level, and someone must want to help.
- No Long-Term Rewards: There is no progression in this covenant. No ranks or special items to gain.
- Can Foster Dependency: Dependence may harm your growth as a player since handling invasions yourself is vital.
- Blues Aren’t Always Gods: Sometimes, summoned Blue Sentinels are clueless like you, or worse. They can charge in and get killed, leaving you vulnerable.
The Verdict? For your first playthrough, especially if new to the series, the Way of Blue is worth trying. It offers a safety net, even if flimsy. Eventually, as you get more used to it all, you may prefer covenants that give better benefits or chances for PvP mayhem.
The Covenant Item: Parchment and Ancient Accords
“What is the covenant item in the Way of Blue?” In Dark Souls 3, it is the “pale blue sheepskin parchment.” This item allows you to join the covenant and is described as having “an illustration of the moon.”
This “ancient accord” explains the purpose of the Way of Blue. It signifies that new players deserve protection. This sentiment feels nice in a harsh world. Whether it truly holds weight in Dark Souls’ PvP world remains to be seen, but at least the parchment looks nice.
Summoning the Cavalry (or at Least One Slightly Anxious Blue Dude)
“How do you summon the Way of Blue?” Summoning is tricky. *You* do not summon them; it is more about hoping they come to *you*.
This is how it works: First, you need to be invaded. Even if unfortunate, it’s necessary. Second, be in an area with online play active. If the ember/humanity icon shines in the top corner, you are good.
Third, a Blue Sentinel or Blade must be online and within range of your level and weapon upgrade options. They must also actively want to be summoned.
their own covenant item).
If the stars align, a blue phantom might be summoned. This helps you fight off the invader. One player summarized, “You need to be around their SL/WU. You need to be in an area that allows summons… then an invader must attack a Way of Blue member. THEN, it will call a Blue Sentinel.” It’s like a lottery. The prize? Not getting backstabbed.
Ranking Up in the Way of Blue: A Paradox
“How to level up way of the blue?” This is where it gets interesting. You can’t level up in the Way of Blue. There are no ranks. This is true. But confusion exists online. People mistake it for Blue Sentinels/Blades of the Darkmoon, which do have ranks.
For the Blue Sentinels/Blades of the Darkmoon, leveling up means: “Win a duel in the arena,” “Defend a Way of Blue member,” or “Defeat a sinner with a Cracked Blue Eye Orb.” These actions are for protectors. As a member of Way of Blue, your growth is personal. You survive better, maybe enjoy the chaos more. But in terms of ranks and rewards, the Way of Blue leads nowhere. It’s safe, helpful, but ultimately rankless.
Dark Souls 2: Way of Blue and Covenant Conundrums
Let’s look at Dark Souls 2. It has… opinions. Its covenant system is a core part of the experience. The Way of Blue fits into this complex structure.
Easiest Covenant to Level Up? Way of Blue Takes the Crown (Sort Of)
TheGamer views Way of Blue as the “easiest to max out.”
Why? You don’t *do* anything to level up. You exist, wear the ring, and occasionally a Blue Sentinel appears to help. Other covenants usually need grinding for items or winning PvP matches. The Way of Blue? You level up by… surviving. Or rather, not leveling up in a covenant sense.
If “easiest to level up” means “quickest rewards,” it’s bad. Easy because there’s nothing to level up. Saying breathing is the easiest marathon because you don’t move your legs is technically true but misses the point.
Leveling Up (or Not) the Way of Blue in DS2: Repeat Offender
To be clear: You do not level up the Way of Blue covenant in Dark Souls 2 or any Dark Souls. No ranks, rewards, or leaderboards. “Ranking up” refers to the Blue Sentinels, not to Way of Blue members.
If you hoped to grind for exclusive blue armor or a powerful sword, prepare for disappointment. The Way of Blue isn’t about progression; it’s about surviving long enough to progress in the actual game.
Covenant Chaos: Comparing and Contrasting DS2’s Factions
Dark Souls 2 has many covenants with unique multiplayer experiences. Let’s put the Way of Blue in context with its counterparts.
The Best Covenant in DS2? Spoiler: It’s Not Way of Blue
Dark Souls 2 covenants often place it near the bottom or in a lower tier. Covenants like Pilgrims of the Dark, Dragon Remnants, and Heirs of the Sun offer rewards and unique gameplay.
Pilgrims of the Dark provides a rewarding PvE experience with strong dark magic. Dragon Remnants focuses on honorable duels and dragon-themed rewards. Heirs of the Sun promotes team play and sun miracles. The Way of Blue? It offers potential help when you’re in trouble. Useful, perhaps, but not “best” by traditional standards.
Covenant Commitment: One at a Time, Please
Making it Harder: The Company of Champions Challenge
Leaving the Fold: Covenant Exits are Allowed
Rat King Revelations: Should You Go Rodent?
If you lack love for rats or wish to set elaborate traps for invaders, you can probably skip this section.
Dark Souls 3: Covenants and the Ashen One’s Choices
Now, we turn to Dark Souls 3. The covenant scene shifts slightly, but the Way of Blue remains unchanged. Let’s delve into the covenants of Lothric and discover how the azure path fits in.
Best Covenant in DS3? Mound-Makers Mayhem
“What’s the best covenant in DS3?” Dark Souls 3 has various covenants. Each possesses unique traits. “Best” is subjective. However, many players list Mound-Makers as a favorite for its unpredictability and chaotic fun. One ranking even states, “our personal favorite is undoubtedly the unpredictable covenant of Mound-Makers.”
Mound-Makers represent the wild cards of DS3. They can be summoned as allies or as invaders. This creates entertaining and puzzling multiplayer situations. Other well-liked covenants include Warriors of Sunlight (for cooperation), Rosaria’s Fingers (for respecs and unique fashion), and the ever-reliable Way of Blue, still a great start for newcomers.
Covenants: Worth It? Absolutely!
“Are covenants worth it in DS3?” The answer is yes. In Dark Souls 3, covenants add depth to multiplayer gameplay. They offer special rewards. They can enhance your overall experience. As one quote aptly states, “Covenants are a key mechanic for those who seek them in Dark Souls 3.”
Whether you prefer cooperative play or competitive PvP, covenants cater to every playstyle. They introduce fresh allies, new foes, and crucially, “a wealth of rewarding items and powers to aid them through the struggles of Dark Souls 3.” Ignoring covenants means missing out on many elements that enrich the online experience.
Covenant Carousel: Switching Sides with Ease
“Can you join all covenants DS3?” You can’t belong to every covenant at once. However, Dark Souls 3 allows players to switch covenants quite freely. “You can change your covenant at any moment without penalty,” which contrasts sharply with the rigid rules of earlier titles in the series.
This flexibility encourages players to experiment. Want to play as a helpful Warrior of Sunlight for a time? Go right ahead. Planning to embrace the chaos of Mound-Makers? Switch over. Fed up with being invaded? Equip the Way of Blue parchment to summon a Blue Sentinel. Dark Souls 3 makes it easy to sample various covenant experiences without any long-term commitment.
Dark Souls 2 Deep Dive: More Than Just Covenants
Let’s expand our focus and consider general Dark Souls 2 elements. After all, covenants represent just one part of the sprawling puzzle that is Drangleic.
Why the DS2 Dislike? The Difficulty Debate
“Why is Dark Souls 2 not as good?” This question leads to heated discussions among Souls fans. Dark Souls 2 is indeed divisive. Some love it, others hate it, while most find themselves in the middle. The typical criticisms often focus on “artificial difficulty,” with complaints that “enemies swarm the player” and that it “fails to meet the standards set by other two games.”
Many criticize movement and boss design. Some find movement “slow and dull,” while specific bosses are often described as “poorly designed and not entertaining.” Ouch. Despite its flaws, Dark Souls 2 introduced many concepts that influenced later titles. It remains a distinct entry in the franchise, for better or worse, and its drawbacks frequently overshadow its positive aspects.
Punishing Death: Health Loss in DS2
“Does Dark Souls 2 punish you for dying?” Yes, Dark Souls 2 is quite harsh regarding death. Each time you face the numerous threats of Drangleic, you lose some maximum health. “Every death in DS2 deducts a portion from your health bar, with a maximum loss of 50%.”
This health reduction can intensify the challenge, particularly for newcomers. Human Effigies serve to restore both humanity and full health, but these resources are limited, adding another layer of management to an already demanding experience. This death penalty marks a significant departure from other entries, contributing to Dark Souls 2’s daunting reputation.
Heirs of the Sun: Praise the… Co-op?
“What are the heirs of the sun ds2?” The Heirs of the Sun represent Dark Souls 2’s collaborative covenant, akin to the Warriors of Sunlight seen in Dark Souls 1 and 3. Members focus on “helping others by being summoned as golden phantoms.”
If you cherish camaraderie and wish to spread some positivity (in a bleak, decaying world, of course), the Heirs of the Sun may suit you. Successfully aiding fellow players earns Sunlight Medals. These medals help you rank up in the covenant and unlock sun-themed miracles. This covenant excels for players who enjoy support and cooperation.
Dexterity Boost: Ringing in the Changes
“What ring increases dex DS2?” For Dexterity builds, the Dexterity Ring proves invaluable. Found in the Crown of the Old Iron King DLC, this ring does precisely what it claims: “Boosts the dexterity of its wearer.” A simple yet effective upgrade for those who prefer swift weapons and agile dodges.
Best Builds in DS2: Vampire Vibes and More
“What is the best build in DS2?” Dark Souls 2 presents numerous viable builds, accommodating various styles. From the “Unstoppable Vampire,” centered on health regeneration, to the “Fastest Staff In The West” sorcerer build and the all-out “Havel Cosplay,” each offers something different.
Other robust builds include the “True Pursuer,” the “Barbarian Scholar,” the “Bait And Switch,” and the “Bulldozer.” Exploration is crucial in Dark Souls 2, and discovering a build that resonates with your approach is part of the game’s appeal (and potential frustration).
Ring Capacity: Four is the Magic Number
“How many rings can you equip in ds2?” In contrast to Dark Souls, which limited you to two rings, Dark Souls 2 allows players to equip up to four rings. “Unlike its predecessor, Dark Souls 2 allows you to equip four rings.” This expanded capacity offers numerous customization opportunities, enabling more intricate combinations. With a total of 99 rings to find (including DLC rings), you’ll enjoy diverse options for optimizing your character.
Humanity and Drop Rates: A Numbers Game
“Does humanity increase drop rate DS2?” In Dark Souls 2, using a Human Effigy to restore humanity does affect item drop rates, albeit indirectly. Having higher humanity—that is, being human (not hollow)—raises your item discovery stat. A higher discovery rate leads to better chances of loot drops from enemies. Thus, being human improves your odds of obtaining rare items.
Max Level Mayhem: Soul Level 838 Awaits
“Is there a max level in DS2?” For devoted players, Dark Souls 2 features a theoretical maximum soul level. By leveling all stats to 99, “Maximum Soul Level is 838.” Achieving this lofty status requires vast amounts of souls, making it a true grind, yet technically possible. Whether it’s worth pursuing is debatable. But hey, bragging rights come into play!
Miyazaki’s DS2 Musings: Pride and Influence
“What did Miyazaki say about DS2?” and “Did Miyazaki like DS2?” Despite mixed fan reception, Hidetaka Miyazaki, creator of the Souls series, regards Dark Souls 2 positively. “I genuinely think [Dark Souls 2] represented a great project,” he stated, adding that “without it, many ideas and connections carried forward would not exist.”
Although Miyazaki did not direct Dark Souls 2, he supervised its development and acknowledges its vital role in the series’ evolution.
criticisms, even the creator recognizes Dark Souls 2’s value and influence.
Skippable Souls? DS2’s Place in the Pantheon
“Is DS2 skippable?” Technically, yes. You can skip Dark Souls 2 and follow the Souls series’ narrative. However, skipping is not generally recommended. “You can skip it. I don’t advise it.”
Dark Souls 2 has a different tone and mechanics than Dark Souls 1 and 3. It remains a substantial game. Skipping it means missing a unique experience. Some say, “Dark Souls 2 was pretty good.” It may not be the favorite, but it’s key to the Souls legacy.
Ending Enigmas: Two Paths to the Throne
“How many endings does DS2 have?” Dark Souls 2’s Scholar of the First Sin edition offers two endings. The “default ‘Throne of Want’ ending” and the “alternate ‘Leave Throne’ ending.”
Achieve the default ending by defeating the last boss. Sit on the Throne of Want. This embraces fire and darkness. The alternate ending is complex. Interact with Aldia. Defeat Vendrick and Nashandra, then Aldia. Reject the throne. Both endings show different perspectives. They are worth experiencing.
Ranking Up Way of Blue: Still Not a Thing (For You)
“How to rank up way of blue?” Back to this again? It is a nightmare or a persistent hollow. Let’s say it again: You, as a member of the Way of Blue, do not rank up. Ranking up is for Blue Sentinels or Blades of the Darkmoon who protect you. Your “rank” is always zero. Still, you may get some help when invaded.
Frigid Outskirts: The Hardest of the Hard
“What is the hardest level in Dark Souls 2?” Prepare for suffering. The Frigid Outskirts in the Crown of the Ivory King DLC is known as the toughest area in Dark Souls 2. Many say no area compares to Frigid Outskirts.
This frozen wasteland has blizzard conditions. It features respawning reindeer. Yes, evil reindeer. The boss run is pure pain. The boss, Lud and Zallen, is no picnic either. If you want to test your sanity, venture to Frigid Outskirts. But don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Becoming Human: Effigies to the Rescue
“How do you go human in DS2?” Use a Human Effigy to regain your human form. “Using one from your inventory restores your humanity.” Human Effigies are rare early in the game. Choose wisely when to use them. Being human restores health and allows summoning other players for co-op.
