Combat Basics

Master dark souls iii combat basics: manage stamina for attacks/dodges, use lock-on strategically, and understand melee, ranged, and spellcasting options.

Stamina

Stamina is a crucial resource in dark souls iii, consumed by actions such as attacking, rolling, dashing, and backstepping. Appropriate usage is vital to prevent death, as running out of stamina leaves you unable to avoid incoming attacks. Fortunately, stamina regenerates naturally when not in use, so allow yourself time to recover between actions or engagements.

Lock-On

Locking onto a target near you allows for easier backstepping and side-stepping. You can switch targets or unlock and relock onto a new target if multiple enemies are present. While beneficial for aiming attacks, there are situations where avoiding lock-on is preferable. For instance, the lock-on often targets the enemy's head, which may not be their weak point. Against large enemies with vulnerabilities in their arms or legs, you might want to disengage lock-on to focus on those specific areas.

Melee Attacks

Beyond weapon skills, melee attacks are divided into basic and strong attacks. Basic attacks are less powerful, consume less stamina, and can be chained together fluidly. Strong attacks are slower, can be charged for significant damage, but do not chain well with basic attacks. All weapons can be wielded two-handed to increase damage output and access Weapon Skills.

Backstabbing

By sneaking up behind enemies or getting behind them during combat, you can perform a backstab with a normal attack. This highly damaging attack can knock an enemy to the ground or off a ledge if they are positioned precariously. Utilize this tactic for tough enemies, but avoid prolonged attempts mid-combat.

Ranged Attacks

Ranged weapons and certain tools enable attacks from a distance, a capability many enemies lack. While crossbows can be used off-hand, bows require two-handed wielding to attack. You can either aim and fire or lock-on and fire similarly to a normal attack. Equipping a bow is beneficial for luring enemies or dealing damage before they close the distance.

Spellcasting

Magic offers a potent offensive option, consuming FP (Focus Points) to cast spells that can inflict substantial damage, unless the enemy possesses high magic resistance. Spellcasting requires Attunement slots to equip spells, Catalysts to cast them, and sufficient Intelligence and/or Faith stats to enhance their potency. Even melee builds can benefit from investing in Intelligence or Faith for a few attunement slots. For example, a Miracle like Caressing Tears, which heals status ailments, requires only 12 Faith and 1 Attunement slot, potentially saving many Estus Flasks, especially in areas like Farron Keep with its poisonous swamp.

Spells consume FP, which can be replenished using an Ashen Estus Flask.