how to access the ringed city dlc

This guide will provide a comprehensive walkthrough for accessing the Ringed City, the epic conclusion to the Dark Souls III saga. Whether you are a seasoned Ashen One or a newcomer to Lothric, understanding the prerequisites and the two distinct entry points is crucial to beginning this final journey.

Table of Contents

Prerequisites: Owning the DLC

The First Path: From the End of Ashes of Ariandel

The Second Path: From Within the Base Game

Navigating the Initial Descent

Why the Dual Access Points Matter

Preparing for the Descent

Prerequisites: Owning the DLC

Before any journey can begin, you must first possess the key. The Ringed City is the second of two downloadable content expansions for Dark Souls III. You can purchase it individually or as part of the "The Fire Fades Edition" or the "Season Pass." Ensure the content is installed on your platform. Once confirmed, loading a character who has defeated the Lords of Cinder will present you with two potential gates to this new land. Your in-game progression determines which path is available, offering a thoughtful design that accommodates different player situations.

The First Path: From the End of Ashes of Ariandel

The most narratively sequential and intended method to access The Ringed City is through the completion of its predecessor, the Ashes of Ariandel DLC. After confronting and defeating Sister Friede in the depths of the Painted World of Ariandel, a new bonfire will appear at the far end of the chapel. This bonfire, simply titled "The Ringed City," serves as a direct gateway. Interacting with it will transport your character from the cold, decaying painting to the precipice of the world's end. This path is recommended for those following the story's natural flow, as it creates a direct narrative link between the fate of the Painted World and the journey to the fabled city at the world's terminus.

The Second Path: From Within the Base Game

For players who have not ventured into the Painted World, or who wish to access the DLC with a character that has not completed Ashes of Ariandel, a secondary entry point exists within the core game. This access is located near the final boss fight of the base campaign. Travel to the "Kiln of the First Flame" bonfire. From this bonfire, instead of proceeding toward the boss arena, turn around and head back to the small area where you first arrived. Investigate the right-hand side of the courtyard, near a pile of rubble and a deceased pilgrim. A new summon sign will be visible on the ground. Interacting with this spectral swirl will transport you to the same starting point as the first method. This ensures that all players who have reached the endgame can experience the DLC without mandatory completion of the previous expansion.

Navigating the Initial Descent

Regardless of the path taken, you will awaken at the "Dreg Heap" bonfire, gazing upon a twisted, converging landscape of collapsed civilizations. This is the literal end of the world, where lands and ages pile upon one another. The immediate area is a vertical, treacherous descent filled with new enemies, environmental hazards, and secrets. Progression is linear but requires careful navigation of crumbling architecture, angelic projections, and the relentless Harald Knights. The initial challenge sets the tone for the entire DLC: punishing, awe-inspiring, and rich with lore. Reaching the first major boss, the Demon Prince, is the key to unlocking the path deeper into the heap and toward the titular city itself.

Why the Dual Access Points Matter

The inclusion of two access methods is a significant design choice that reflects the themes of the Dark Souls series. It respects player agency and time investment. The path from Ashes of Ariandel rewards continuity and treats the DLCs as a cohesive narrative duology. The path from the Kiln of the First Flame acknowledges that some players may engage with content non-linearly or with specific characters. It elegantly ties the DLC to the core game's climax, suggesting that The Ringed City is the true final destination for an Ashen One who seeks answers beyond linking the fire. This duality makes the content more accessible while deepening the philosophical implication that all journeys, whether through the painting or from the kiln, converge at the same inevitable end.

Preparing for the Descent

Accessing The Ringed City is merely the first step. This DLC is renowned for its extreme difficulty, housing some of the most formidable bosses in gaming history. It is strongly advised to embark on this journey with a character at least level 80-100, with a fully upgraded weapon. The enemies are relentless, deal immense damage, and possess large health pools. Equip yourself with a reliable ranged option for dealing with certain threats, and ensure your Estus Flask is thoroughly reinforced. Beyond physical preparation, brace yourself for a solemn and profound exploration of the series' deepest lore. The Ringed City is not just a new area; it is a pilgrimage to the dawn of the Age of Fire, a confrontation with the gods' oldest secrets, and a fittingly ambiguous conclusion to a legendary saga. The path is open, the bells toll, and the final challenge awaits at the world's end.

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