Welcome to our ultimate 'Dark Souls 3: Ranged Build Walkthrough' guide! Whether you're a seasoned archer or a sorcerer looking to dominate foes from a distance, this comprehensive guide is here to help you master the art of ranged combat. Dive into topics like 'Choosing Weapons' to find the best tools for your build, and 'Ranged Combat Tips' to perfect your sharpshooting skills. Learn the balance of 'Mixing Ranged and Melee' for versatile combat strategies, and tackle epic 'Ranged in Boss Fights' tactics to conquer the toughest adversaries. Finally, explore 'Best Ranged Builds' for optimal setups tailored to your playstyle. Equip your bow, ready your spells, and let's turn you into a long-range legend in the treacherous world of Dark Souls 3!

Choosing Weapons

Welcome to the weapon selection guide for your Ranged Build in Dark Souls 3! Here, we'll break down some key choices to help you wipe out those pesky enemies from a safe distance. Whether you’re looking to snipe foes from afar or get up close and personal with light, rapid shots, we’ve got you covered.

Bows

Short Bow

The Short Bow is your basic starting bow, and it’s a solid choice for new players. It doesn't deal massive damage, but it has a quick draw speed, meaning you can fire arrows rapidly. This bow works well with lightweight characters who want to keep moving. Perfect for staying agile and avoiding hits while you take potshots.

• Pros:

  • Quick firing speed
  • Lightweight, keeping you nimble

• Cons:

  • Lower damage, not suitable for heavily armored enemies

Longbow

The Longbow trades speed for power. It's slower to fire, but each shot hits hard. This bow is excellent for engaging enemies from a distance, allowing you to take them out before they get close. The Longbow is efficient for methodical players who prefer a bit of planning and precision.

• Pros:

  • Excellent range
  • Higher damage per shot

• Cons:

  • Slower draw speed
  • Heavier, might affect your movement

Greatbows

Dragonrider Bow

The Dragonrider Bow is a beastly Greatbow that sacrifices speed for unparalleled damage. It’s perfect for knocking down tough enemies and even some bosses. Its weight and slower firing speed make it tricky to use in fast-paced fights, but it’s unbeatable for delivering devastating, single shots.

• Pros:

  • Extremely high damage
  • Effective at long range

• Cons:

  • Very slow firing speed
  • Heavier than normal bows

Crossbows

Light Crossbow

The Light Crossbow offers a good balance between speed and power. Unlike bows, crossbows don't require you to draw each shot, making them using-friendly, especially for players not used to aiming manually. It’s a reliable choice for those who want a straightforward, no-fuss ranged weapon.

• Pros:

  • Decent damage
  • No need to manually aim

• Cons:

  • Reloading takes time
  • Medium weight

Avelyn

Avelyn stands out because it fires three bolts at once. It's essentially a shotgun in crossbow form. It’s perfect for dealing massive damage quickly, but the reload time can leave you vulnerable. This weapon is ideal for quick, high-damage bursts and finishing off weakened foes.

• Pros:

  • Triple bolt firing
  • High burst damage

• Cons:

  • Slow reload
  • Heavy compared to the Light Crossbow

Throwables and Bombs

Throwing Knives

Throwing Knives are fantastic for keeping the pressure on your enemy. They don’t deal massive damage, but they’re great for chipping away at health or finishing off a fleeing enemy. They’re lightweight and allow you to stay mobile.

• Pros:

  • Quick to throw
  • Good for consistent pressure

• Cons:

  • Low damage
  • Limited range

Firebombs

Firebombs are a great tool for dealing with groups of enemies or hitting weak spots. They can disrupt enemy formations and cause panic in their ranks, giving you a strategic advantage. Just make sure to keep a stockpile on hand for when the going gets tough.

• Pros:

  • Area damage
  • Great for crowd control

• Cons:

  • Limited in number
  • Can be hard to aim precisely

Spellcasting Tools

Sorcerer's Staff

The Sorcerer's Staff is your essential tool for casting magic spells. For a Ranged Build, magic can be your best friend, providing high damage and various effects. Keep your spells versatile--mixing damage-dealing spells with defensive or mobility spells can create a well-rounded arsenal.

• Pros:

  • Versatile with various spells
  • High damage potential

• Cons:

  • Requires FP (Focus Points)
  • Dependent on spell-casting timing and accuracy

Final Tips

• Mix It Up: Don’t rely on just one weapon type. Having both a bow and crossbow, along with some throwables, can make you versatile on the battlefield.
• Trust Your Playstyle: Choose weapons that fit how you like to play. If you’re quick and nimble, go for lighter weapons. If you like to plan your shots, opt for those with slower, heavier damage.
• Upgrade Wisely: Keep your weapons upgraded to stay effective throughout the game. Different weapons need different upgrade materials, so plan ahead!

Conquering Dark Souls 3 isn’t just about brute strength; it's about strategy and making the right choices. With this guide, you should be well on your way to mastering the art of ranged combat and dominating your foes from afar. Happy hunting, Ashen One!

Dark Souls 3: Ranged Build Walkthrough

Ranged Combat Tips

Diving into the world of Dark Souls 3 with a ranged build? You’ve made a great choice for picking off enemies from a distance and avoiding some painful melee encounters. Whether you’re wielding a bow, crossbow, or sorcery, here’s a guide to help you master the art of ranged combat.

Choosing Weapons

First things first, you need to pick your ranged weapon. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

• Bows: Longbow and Black Bow of Pharis are solid choices, thanks to their range and damage.
• Crossbows: They’re great for quick shots and can be used with a shield equipped, but they lack the range and finesse of bows.
• Sorceries: Ideal for those who want to dabble in magic. Spells like Soul Arrow and Great Heavy Soul Arrow are fantastic for sniping enemies.

Managing Ammo

No matter what ranged weapon you choose, managing your ammunition is crucial. Running out of arrows or bolts mid-fight can be a nightmare. Always keep your stock topped up before heading into new areas. Remember, certain merchants like the Shrine Handmaid sell arrows and bolts. Don’t skimp on these!

Upgrading Your Gear

Just like melee weapons, upgrading your bows, crossbows, and staves is essential for staying effective. Look for Titanite Shards, Large Titanite Shards, and Titanite Chunks to boost your weapon’s damage. Don’t overlook upgrading your catalysts (staves and chimes) if you’re using magic!

Positioning and Terrain

Use the terrain to your advantage. High ground gives you an excellent vantage point, making it easier to line up headshots or aim spells. Stay mobile--enemies can be relentless and will close the gap quickly. Roll and dodge like your life depends on it (because it does!).

Timing and Patience

Ranged combat is a game of patience. Wait for the right moment to strike. Watch enemy patterns and fire when you’re sure you can hit without getting interrupted. Timing is especially crucial against fast-moving or shield-bearing foes.

Utilizing Shields

If you’re using a crossbow or casting spells, consider equipping a shield in your off-hand. A shield can block incoming attacks while you line up your shots, providing an extra layer of defense. Many shields even have skills that can help you keep enemies at bay.

Know Your Spells

For magic users, knowing your spells is half the battle. Here are a few must-have spells for any budding sorcerer:

• Soul Arrow: Great for general sniping, low FP cost.
• Great Heavy Soul Arrow: Deals heavier damage, perfect for tougher enemies.
• Homing Soulmass: Casts multiple homing projectiles, good for keeping pressure on enemies.

Make sure you balance your spell loadout with quick casts and high-damage options to handle any situation.

Dealing with Bosses

Bosses in Dark Souls 3 can be particularly challenging for ranged builds, but it’s doable with some strategy:

• Kite the Boss: Keep your distance and try to stay at range. Use whatever space you have to keep moving.
• Target Weak Spots: Some bosses have weak points or moments of vulnerability. Learn these patterns and exploit them.
• Summon Help: Don’t hesitate to summon NPCs or other players for assistance. They can draw attention, giving you time to line up shots.

Quick Tips

• Lock-On: Use the lock-on feature to keep track of your target, but don’t rely on it for every shot--sometimes manual aiming is better.
• Headshots: Aiming for the head can deal extra damage, so practice your precision!
• FP Management: If you’re using sorceries, keep an eye on your Focus Points (FP). Use Ashen Estus Flasks to replenish FP during lengthy battles.

Master these tips, and you’ll find that being a ranged fighter in Dark Souls 3 can be incredibly rewarding and fun. Happy hunting, Ashen One!

Mixing Ranged and Melee in Dark Souls 3

Combining ranged and melee combat in Dark Souls 3 can make you a versatile and deadly force. Whether you're up against bosses or just slugging through mobs, balancing these two styles can help you handle any situation the game throws at you. Here’s how to do it right.

Choose Your Weapons Wisely

First off, you need the right gear. For melee, you want a weapon that complements your ranged choice. Here's a quick rundown of good combos:

• Bow + Straight Sword: Bows give you distance, and straight swords are quick with decent damage. You can poke enemies from afar and finish them up close.
• Crossbow + Greatsword: Crossbows are faster than regular bows and can be fired quickly. Pairing this with a big-hitting greatsword can let you dish out significant damage in melee.
• Staff + Rapier: If you’re going with sorceries, a staff for ranged spells and a rapier for close-quarter combats is a solid pick. The rapier’s speed suits nimble spellcasters.

Stats to Focus On

Balancing ranged and melee builds means spreading your stats wisely. Here’s what you need:

• Dexterity: If you're using bows or crossbows, you’ll need this for better damage and scaling. Many melee weapons also scale well with Dex.
• Strength: For heavier melee weapons like greatswords, don’t skimp on Strength.
• Intelligence/Faith: If your ranged attacks rely on magic or miracles, these stats are crucial.
• Endurance: More vital for melee. You need stamina for dodging and attacking.
• Attunement: If you’re using spells, this increases your FP and gives you more spell slots.

Effective Combat Tactics

Spacing and Positioning

The key to making a mix build work is knowing when to switch between ranged and melee. Use your ranged weapon to soften up enemies as they approach, then switch to melee when they get close.

Pro Tip: Always keep a safe distance with ranged attacks until you see an opening for melee. Rolling into position can break the enemy’s rhythm.

Multi-Enemy Encounters

When swamped by groups, use ranged attacks to pick off weaker foes or to stagger stronger ones from afar. Use your melee weapon's crowd-control moves when they close in.

• Bows/Crossbows: The Bow of Want’s special attack can hit multiple enemies in a line. Crossbows with explosive bolts are great for clusters.
• Spells: Soul Greatsword is a wide swing that can hit many enemies. Miracles like Wrath of the Gods provide an area burst.

Boss Tactics

Boss fights require effective switching between range and melee. Start with ranged to figure out patterns and whittle down health. Get in close when you see an opening, but always be ready to back off and switch back to ranged if the situation demands it.

Pro Tip: Some bosses are weak to certain damage types. Adjust your weapon infusions and spell types accordingly.

Managing Resources

Ammo and FP

Weapons and Stamina

Watch your stamina and arrows or bolts, and manage your FP for spells. You don’t want to run out of all your ammo or FP. Always carry a backup melee weapon for emergencies.

Pro Tip: Keep Estus Flasks ratio in mind. If you’re heavy on spells and ranged attacks, allocate more Ashen Estus Flasks.

Experiment and Adapt

The best part of Dark Souls 3’s combat is its flexibility. Don’t be scared to switch up your playstyle if something isn’t working. Different areas and enemies might require different tactics.

In Summary

Mixing ranged and melee combat can be incredibly rewarding if done correctly. Balance your stats, choose complementary weapons, and master the art of positioning and resource management. With practice, you’ll find that switching between ranged and melee becomes second nature, making every encounter a chance to demonstrate your adaptability and skill.

Keep experimenting, and may the flames guide thee!

Ranged in Boss Fights

Alright, Ashen One, so you're geared up with your trusty bow or your spell-casting staff, and you're ready to take on the big baddies of Dark Souls 3. Boss fights can be super intimidating, but having a good ranged strategy can make them a lot less scary. Let's dive into some tactics that'll help you use those archery or magic skills to take down the toughest foes.

Choosing the Right Weapon

First things first, make sure you've got the right bow or staff. For bows, the Longbow or Black Bow of Pharis are solid choices due to their range and damage. Don’t forget to stock up on plenty of arrows - normal, heavy, and even poison or fire arrows can be game-changers.

If you’re a magic user, you'll want to have a good staff like the Court Sorcerer's Staff or a sacred chime for miracles. Note that different bosses are weak to different types of magic, so switch it up between sorceries, pyromancies, and miracles depending on what works best.

Positioning is Key

As a ranged fighter, your positioning during a boss fight is crucial. You want to keep a safe distance while still being able to land your shots or spells. Use the environment to your advantage - pillars or broken walls can provide cover and a moment to catch your breath.

Learning Boss Patterns

Take some time to study the boss's attack patterns. They’re usually repeatable, giving you opportunities to strike. For example, after a boss finishes a heavy attack, they often have a brief moment of recovery that’s perfect for getting a few shots in. Patience is your friend here - resist the urge to spam attacks and wait for the right openings.

Status Effects

Don't underestimate status effects. Poison arrows or spells can continuously chip away at a boss’s health while you focus on dodging or repositioning. Plus, some bosses are particularly vulnerable to specific status effects. For example, using toxic mist can be very effective against certain giant or armored bosses.

Managing Stamina

One of the biggest challenges as a ranged player is managing your stamina. Firing bows and casting spells both consume stamina, and you'll need to dodge often to stay out of harm’s way. Equip lighter armor to keep your stamina regeneration high and your rolling speed fast. You can’t attack if you’re out of stamina, so always keep an eye on that green bar.

Summons and Support

Remember, you don’t have to do it alone! Summoning phantoms, either NPCs or other players, can provide crucial support. While they draw the boss's attention, you can safely get in some powerful ranged hits. Multiplayer is a ton of fun and can make boss battles way less stressful.

Specific Boss Tips

• Vordt of the Boreal Valley: Stay mobile and keep your distance. Use frost-resistant gear if you have it, but mainly focus on dodging his charges and using arrows when he’s recovering.
• Abyss Watchers: Use fire arrows or pyromancies. The fight gets chaotic with multiple enemies, so keep moving and pick off the weaker followers first.
• Pontiff Sulyvahn: Dodge his initial combos and attack from mid-range. He’s weak to dark damage, so use dark magic or infused arrows.

Final Thoughts

Ranged combat in Dark Souls 3 boss fights is all about patience, positioning, and timing. Always be mindful of your stamina and ready to dodge at a moment’s notice. Learn the boss patterns, and don't be afraid to use every tool and trick at your disposal. With these strategies, you’ll be a force to be reckoned with, taking down bosses like the true Ashen One you are. Good luck, and happy hunting!

Best Ranged Builds

Ranged builds in Dark Souls 3 can be incredibly fun and effective. Whether you prefer to pepper enemies from afar with arrows or cast devastating spells, there’s a build for you. Here are some of the best ranged builds to try out in the game.

Sharpshooter: Bow and Crossbow Build

Weapons

1. Longbow or Composite Bow: These are excellent choices for main bows. The longbow gives you better range, while the composite bow offers quicker shots.
2. Millwood Greatbow: For sheer power and range, this greatbow can't be beat. It shoots explosive arrows that deal massive damage.
3. Avelyn: As a backup, the Avelyn is a powerful crossbow capable of rapid triple shots.

Suggested Stats

• Dexterity: 40. Most bows scale well with Dexterity, so this is crucial.
• Endurance: 20-25. Helps you roll out of harm's way and keep firing.
• Attunement: Add a few points if you want to use utility spells like healing or buffs.

Strategy

• Positioning: Always stay at a distance. Use environmental cover to your advantage and keep enemies guessing.
• Ammunition: Make sure to carry a variety of arrows for different situations. Standard arrows are good for general use, while poison or fire arrows can help with tougher enemies.

Sorcerer Supreme: Magic Build

Weapons

1. Court Sorcerer’s Staff: One of the highest damaging staffs in the game when fully upgraded.
2. Crystal Chime: For casting both sorceries and miracles.
3. Moonlight Greatsword: A reliable backup melee weapon that also scales with Intelligence.

Suggested Stats

• Intelligence: 50-60. Essential for boosting spell damage.
• Attunement: 30-40. More spells slots and better FP.
• Endurance: 20-25. You’ll need stamina to cast and roll away from danger.

Strategy

• Spell Selection: Make sure to use a mix of direct damage spells (like Soul Spear), area-of-effect spells (Crystal Soulmass), and crowd control spells (Farron Flashsword).
• Distance Management: Always stay at mid to long range. Use spells strategically to keep foes at bay.

Pyromancer Powerhouse: Flame and Chaos Build

Weapons

1. Pyromancy Flame: Your main tool for all pyromancies. Upgrade it as much as you can.
2. Demon’s Scar: A versatile weapon that also acts as a catalyst for pyromancies.
3. Chaos Bed Vestiges: A high-damage ranged pyromancy.

Suggested Stats

• Intelligence: 30-40. Helps boost spell potency.
• Faith: 30-40. Works in tandem with Intelligence to increase pyromancy damage.
• Attunement: 20-30. Ensures you have enough FP and spell slots.

Strategy

• Flame Management: Mix up your pyromancies. Use Great Chaos Fire Orb for area damage and Black Flame for close-quarters.
• Armor and Rings: Equip gear that boosts your spell damage, like the Sage Ring and Witch’s Ring.

Making Your Build Effective

• Rings: Equip rings that complement your build. For bows, consider Hawk Ring for extended range. For magic users, Young Dragon Ring and Bellowing Dragoncrest Ring are essential. For pyromancy, Great Swamp Ring and Fire Clutch Ring are great choices.
• Armor: Choose light to medium armor for better mobility. You need to be able to dodge quickly since ranged characters are generally more vulnerable in melee combat.
• Consumables: Stock up on items like green blossom to boost stamina regeneration, and Ashen Estus Flasks for keeping your FP topped up.

Conclusion

Ranged builds are all about keeping your distance and exploiting your enemy’s weaknesses from afar. Whether you're sniping with a bow or hurling devastating spells, you can always find a way to dominate the battlefield. Try out these builds, tweak them to your liking, and you'll find yourself conquering Dark Souls 3 in no time.