How to Clear the Final Boss Level in Dark Souls III: Essential Strategies and Tactics

The final boss of Dark Souls III, the Soul of Cinder, presents a formidable challenge that will test even the most seasoned players. This epic confrontation takes place in the Kiln of the First Flame, a desolate arena that serves as the backdrop for the ultimate battle. To emerge victorious, you'll need to master a variety of strategies and tactics tailored to each phase of the fight. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to overcome this fearsome opponent and complete your journey through the world of Dark Souls III.

Preparation

Before engaging the Soul of Cinder, it's crucial to ensure you're as prepared as possible:

Weapon and Equipment Optimization

• Upgrade your primary weapon to +10 for maximum damage output[5].
• Consider using weapons infused with lightning or dark elements, as the boss is weak to these[2].
• Equip armor with high fire resistance to mitigate damage from flame-based attacks[5].

Character Build and Stats

• Aim for a character level of around 95 or higher[4].
• Allocate your stats to complement your chosen playstyle, whether it's strength-based, dexterity-focused, or a magic build.

Consumables and Buffs

• Stock up on Estus Flasks and upgrade them to their maximum potential[5].
• Bring resins or spells that can buff your weapon with lightning or dark damage.
• Consider using Green Blossoms to increase stamina regeneration.

Mental Preparation

• Accept that you will likely die multiple times during this encounter[4].
• Approach the fight with patience and a willingness to learn from each attempt.

Phase One: The Amalgamation of Lords

The first phase of the Soul of Cinder fight is characterized by its ability to switch between four distinct fighting styles, each representing a different Lord of Cinder. Understanding and adapting to these styles is key to survival.

Sword and Sorcery Style

Moveset and Tactics

• The boss wields a straight sword and can cast various sorceries[6].
• Be prepared to dodge Homing Crystal Soulmass, Soul Greatsword, and Crystal Soul Spear[5].
• Maintain a mid-range distance to bait out spells, then close in for melee attacks[5].

Strategy

• Roll through spell projectiles and attack during the boss's casting animations.
• Punish the Soul Stream spell by circling behind the boss for free hits[9].

Curved Sword and Pyromancy Style

Moveset and Tactics

• The boss uses a curved sword and casts various fire spells[6].
• Watch out for Fire Orbs, waves of fire, and Poison Mist[5].

Strategy

• This is considered the most dangerous stance. Keep your distance when you see the curved sword appear[7].
• Dodge to the sides to avoid fire attacks and look for openings after spell casts.

Lance and Miracles Style

Moveset and Tactics

• The boss wields a spear-like weapon and uses lightning-based miracles[6].
• Be prepared for Sunlight Spear and other lightning attacks[5].

Strategy

• Stay at mid-range to avoid the spear's reach and bait out lightning spells.
• Dodge lightning attacks at the last second for better evasion[2].

Straight Sword Style

Moveset and Tactics

• This style focuses on aggressive melee combat with a straight sword[6].
• The boss performs various slashes, thrusts, and combo attacks.

Strategy

• Dodge to the sides and wait for larger attacks to create openings[7].
• Parrying can be effective but risky. Only attempt if you're confident in your timing[6].

General Phase One Strategies

• Adapt your approach based on which style the boss is currently using.
• Use the sorcery and miracle stances as opportunities to deal significant damage[9].
• Be cautious during the curved sword and pyromancy stance, prioritizing survival over aggression[7].
• Look for openings after the boss completes combos or spell casts.
• Maintain a balance between aggression and caution, chipping away at the boss's health bar over time.

Phase Two: The Lord of Cinder Awakens

Once you've depleted the Soul of Cinder's health bar in phase one, the true challenge begins. The boss channels the power of Gwyn, the original Lord of Cinder, gaining new abilities and becoming even more aggressive.

New Moveset and Abilities

Five-Hit Combo

• A devastating series of attacks that can juggle and kill even high-vitality characters[8].
• Recognizable by the boss standing upright without moving before initiating[2].

Strategy: When you see the wind-up, immediately create distance. Wait for the combo to finish before re-engaging[4].

Grapple Attack

• A powerful grab that deals massive damage and creates an explosion[8].
• Telegraphed by the boss reaching out with its off-hand[2].

Strategy: Watch for the reaching motion and roll away to avoid being grabbed[2].

Lightning Attacks

• The boss gains access to various lightning-based abilities[8].
• These include Sunlight Spear, a splitting Lightning Spear, and Sunlight Stake[9].

Strategy: Dodge lightning attacks at the last moment for better evasion. For the splitting spear, keep moving to avoid the raining bolts[2][9].

Phase Two Tactics

1. Defensive Play: Prioritize survival over aggression. Learn the new attack patterns and focus on dodging[6].
2. Punish Openings: Look for opportunities after the boss's longer animations, such as the five-hit combo or lightning attacks[8].
3. Manage Distance: Stay at mid-range to bait out attacks you can punish while avoiding close-range grabs[5].
4. Stamina Management: Be mindful of your stamina, ensuring you always have enough to dodge the boss's combos[6].
5. Healing Windows: Use the boss's longer animations, like the five-hit combo, as opportunities to heal safely[8].

Advanced Strategies

Parrying

While risky, successfully parrying the Soul of Cinder can create significant openings:

• Many attacks in the first phase, especially during the Straight Sword stance, can be parried[6].
• Practice parrying timing on easier enemies before attempting it in the boss fight.
• Be aware that a failed parry can leave you vulnerable to heavy damage.

Spell-casting Strategies

For magic users, the fight requires a different approach:

• Avoid slow-casting spells, as the boss can easily interrupt you[6].
• Use faster spells that allow for quick dodges between casts.
• Dark spells are particularly effective, as the boss has lower resistance to dark damage[6].

Co-op Considerations

If you're struggling, consider summoning help:

• Having a co-op partner can make the fight significantly easier by dividing the boss's attention.
• However, be aware that summoning also increases the boss's health pool.
• Coordinate with your partner to take turns aggro-ing the boss and healing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcommitting to Attacks: Don't get greedy. Stick to 1-2 hits before preparing to dodge[4].
2. Panic Healing: Avoid using Estus Flasks at unsafe moments. Wait for clear openings or create distance first[6].
3. Ignoring Phase Changes: Be prepared for the sudden shift in moveset and aggression when phase two begins.
4. Staying Too Close: While aggression can be rewarded, maintaining a mid-range distance often provides better opportunities to punish[5].
5. Neglecting Adaptability: Failing to adjust your strategy based on the boss's current fighting style can lead to quick defeats.

Final Tips for Success

1. Learn from Each Attempt: Every death is an opportunity to better understand the boss's patterns and improve your strategy.
2. Stay Calm: The pressure of facing the final boss can lead to mistakes. Take deep breaths and maintain your focus.
3. Use the Arena: The large, open space allows for maneuverability. Use the entire area to create distance when needed.
4. Watch Your Surroundings: While there are no environmental hazards, be mindful of your position to avoid getting cornered.
5. Persevere: Remember that many players struggle with this boss. With patience and practice, victory is achievable.

Conclusion

Defeating the Soul of Cinder is the ultimate test of skill in Dark Souls III. By understanding the boss's various movesets, adapting your strategy to each phase, and maintaining a balance of aggression and caution, you can overcome this formidable opponent. Remember that each attempt brings you closer to victory, as you learn and improve with every encounter.

The key to success lies in patience, observation, and adaptability. Don't be discouraged by defeats; instead, use them as stepping stones towards your ultimate triumph. With perseverance and the strategies outlined in this guide, you'll be well-equipped to face the Soul of Cinder and bring your epic journey through Dark Souls III to a satisfying conclusion.

As you stand before the Kiln of the First Flame, ready to face your destiny, remember the countless challenges you've overcome to reach this point. The skills you've honed, the knowledge you've gained, and the determination that has carried you through the darkest depths of Lothric will serve you well in this final confrontation. Steel yourself, Ashen One, for the ultimate battle awaits. May the flames guide your way to victory.

Citations:

• [1] Video Guide
• [2] Gamerant Guide
• [3] Rock Paper Shotgun Guide
• [4] Reddit Tips
• [5] DualShockers Guide
• [6] TheGamer Guide
• [7] Steam Community Guide
• [8] Video Guide
• [9] Fextralife Wiki
• [10] Video Guide