In the challenging world of Dark Souls 3, the Shield of Want stands out as a valuable asset for any adventurer. Not only does it offer solid defense, but it also boosts the number of souls you collect from defeated enemies by 20%. This guide will walk you through the steps to acquire this coveted shield.
Understanding the Shield of Want
Before diving into the acquisition process, it’s essential to grasp what makes the Shield of Want so special. This medium-sized shield provides 100% physical damage absorption, ensuring that standard physical attacks don’t harm you when blocked. Additionally, its unique trait increases the souls gained from vanquished foes by 20%, making it a favorite among players aiming to level up efficiently.
Locating the Shield: Journey to Smouldering Lake
The Shield of Want is hidden within the Smouldering Lake, a secret area beneath the Catacombs of Carthus. To reach this location, follow these steps:
- Navigate the Catacombs of Carthus: Progress through the Catacombs until you encounter a large rope bridge. Instead of crossing it, attack the bridge’s supports to collapse it, forming a makeshift ladder. Descend this ladder to access a lower area.
- Confront the Fire Demon: Upon reaching the bottom, you’ll find yourself in a chamber housing a formidable Fire Demon. While engaging it is an option, you can also sprint past it. From the entrance, dash down the stairs and leap off the ledge ahead, then head towards the small archway at the back to evade the demon’s attacks.
- Enter Smouldering Lake: Proceed through the subsequent passage, eliminating any skeletons that might pursue you. Shortly after, you’ll arrive at the Abandoned Tomb bonfire, marking the entrance to Smouldering Lake.
Facing the Challenges of Smouldering Lake
Smouldering Lake is fraught with perils, notably the Carthus Sandworm and a colossal ballista that periodically fires massive bolts across the area. To safely obtain the Shield of Want:
- Identify the Shield’s Location: As you step into the lake, you’ll notice several glowing items scattered around. The Shield of Want rests on a corpse in the shallow waters, distinguishable by its distinct glow.
- Deal with the Carthus Sandworm: The moment you enter the lake, the gigantic Sandworm will emerge. Simultaneously, the ballista will begin its assault. A strategic approach involves positioning the Sandworm between you and the ballista, allowing the ballista’s bolts to damage the creature. With patience, the ballista can eliminate the Sandworm for you, rewarding you with valuable items upon its defeat.
- Retrieve the Shield: With the Sandworm neutralized, cautiously navigate the lake, using the charred trees and terrain for cover from the ballista’s attacks. When it’s safe, approach the glowing corpse and claim the Shield of Want.
Maximizing the Shield’s Potential
To fully benefit from the Shield of Want:
- Equip the Shield: Ensure the shield is actively equipped in either hand. The 20% soul gain bonus applies as long as the shield is equipped, even if you’re two-handing a weapon or dual-wielding.
- Stack Bonuses: The shield’s soul-boosting effect stacks with other items like the Covetous Silver Serpent Ring and the Symbol of Avarice. By combining these, you can significantly amplify the number of souls earned from enemies.
- Strength Requirement: The shield requires 18 Strength to wield effectively. However, even if you don’t meet this requirement, you can still equip it to receive the soul gain bonus, though its defensive capabilities will be compromised.
