Dark Souls 3: Beat Lorian & Lothric (Tips & Tricks)

As a seasoned gamer with countless hours spent battling formidable foes across various realms, I must say that the Twin Princes fight in Dark Souls 3 is one of the most captivating encounters I’ve ever faced. The unique dynamic between these two tragic figures, their unified fighting style, and the intricate dance they force upon the player make this boss battle a true masterpiece.

Struggling against the Twin Princes in Dark Souls 3? You’re not alone! This intense boss battle pushes even experienced gamers to their limits. But don’t worry, help is here! This detailed guide covers everything you need to know to take down Lorian and Lothric. We’ll delve into their tragic past, providing a richer context for this significant battle. We’ll analyze their individual and combined attack patterns, giving you practical advice on dodging, blocking, and finding the opportune moments to strike. Additionally, we’ll discuss optimal builds, weapons, and armor to boost your chances of victory. Prepare yourself to finally overcome this tough fight and advance through Lothric Castle.

Key Takeaways

Prioritize Lothric: Focus your attacks on Lothric. Though Lorian is powerful, defeating Lothric ends the fight, preventing revivals and saving you precious Estus Flasks.
Dodge, anticipate, attack: Mastering dodges is crucial for surviving Lorian’s swift attacks and Lothric’s magic. Recognize their attack patterns to anticipate their moves and punish them during their brief moments of vulnerability.
Patience and positioning win: Don’t get greedy with your attacks. Smart positioning, especially in phase two, helps you avoid damage and exploit openings. Staying calm and learning the rhythm of the fight is key to overcoming this challenging encounter.

Who Are the Twin Princes?

It’s beneficial to familiarize yourself with the tale of Lorian and Lothric before engaging them in Dark Souls 3. Understanding their background and dynamics can enhance your experience during this significant boss battle, as it provides additional depth.

Their Tragic Story

Younger prince Lothric was born weak and unwell, destined to keep the First Flame alive and become a Lord of Cinder – a role he rejected. His elder brother Lorian was a skilled warrior, admired for his strength on the battlefield and his victories. He even led an attack against the remains of Chaos Demons, forcing some into servitude for Lothric. Lorian’s devotion to his brother extended to taking up his brother’s responsibility, offering to keep the flame together with him. However, this selfless act had consequences. Lorian became disabled and unable to walk, and Lothric felt his brother’s pain, further debilitating himself. This joint sacrifice deepened their tragic connection. Their interconnected destiny makes them a powerful yet poignant duo.

Their Bond’s Symbolism

The Twin Princes, Lothric and Lorian, dwell within the towering Grand Archives, atop Lothric Castle – your ultimate adversaries as the Lords of Cinder. Their positioning signifies the climax of your adventure. What sets this battle apart is the obvious camaraderie between the brothers. Throughout the initial phase, Lorian supports his brother by shielding him and engaging in fierce defensive combat. Upon Lorian’s downfall, Lothric restores him to life, showcasing their unyielding bond. This duality presents a distinctive challenge, forcing players to adjust to two distinct fighting styles that are intricately linked by a common goal. Numerous gamers regard this encounter as one of the finest boss fights in the game, commending its balance and emotional resonance.

Fight Lorian, the Elder Prince (Phase 1)

In this battle, you’re truly put to the test of evading effectively. Lorian, the Elder Prince, is swift and ferocious, brandishing a longsword that stretches far. He’s not just fast; he can also move about the arena, making you constantly alert. But remember, don’t lose heart! Mastering his moves is crucial for victory. Once you grasp his rhythm, you’ll discover opportunities to counterattack him.

Lorian’s Teleportation

As a fan, I must admit that Lorian’s teleportation ability can initially leave you feeling bewildered. One moment he’s across the arena, and the next, he’s right beside you, ready to launch an unexpected attack. However, there’s a silver lining – each of his teleports resets his attack animations. This offers a precious opportunity for you to respond swiftly, either by dodging or blocking. Keep a keen eye on him as he reappears; you’ll get a fleeting instant to make your move before he strikes again. The predictability of his teleportation attacks becomes your strongest ally in this battle. For a comprehensive visual guide on how to counter his teleportation moves, I highly recommend checking out this helpful video tutorial.

Dodge Lorian’s Attacks

In combat against Lorian, be aware that his greatsword reaches further than it appears. You might think you’re out of reach, but he can still strike. It’s wise to focus more on evading rather than blocking whenever possible. A well-timed dodge will keep you clear of harm’s way entirely. If you opt for blocking, use a strong fire shield to minimize damage received. Strive to land only one or two blows after dodging or blocking his attacks. Excessive aggression in this battle can lead to punishment. This Fextralife guide provides valuable advice on evading and blocking Lorian’s attacks.

Attack Lorian’s Openings

As a diehard fan, I can’t stress enough about Lorian’s deadliest move – the long-range tremor. Here’s what goes down: He’ll vanish and reappear at a distance, smashing his mighty greatsword into the ground. The impact creates a devastating shockwave sweeping across the battlefield, often resulting in a single, lethal blow. To survive, you need to spot the warning signs. If he teleports further than normal, brace yourself and prepare to dash sideways, perpendicular to the tremor’s path. The moment he’s momentarily exposed after the attack, seize the chance to strike back a few times. But remember, don’t get too eager – one hit is enough. This video tutorial will show you how to dodge the tremor and exploit the window of opportunity it offers.

Fight Lothric, the Younger Prince (Phase 2)

Here’s where things really heat up! The second phase begins as the younger royal, Prince Lothric, enters the battlefield. Unlike a skilled swordsman, he poses a significant danger with his powerful magic. Brace yourselves for some challenging brotherly cooperation ahead.

Lothric’s Magic Attacks

In Phase 2, Lothric launches spell projectiles that move towards you. These can be tough to dodge, especially with Lorian’s teleporting ability. It’s best to keep your distance and be alert for when Lothric starts casting. A timed roll will help you dodge these attacks, but remember not to push your luck too far. For a complete view of the battle, visit Fextralife’s Lothric, Younger Prince page.

Handle Both Princes

As a fellow enthusiast, here’s how I’d rephrase it: With both princes engaged, you’ll have to adapt your approach. Your main focus should be on Lothric, who seems to be the less formidable of the two. Taking him down concludes the battle. However, reaching that point requires outmaneuvering Lorian, who serves as both Lothric’s protector and attacker. This can be challenging, given Lorian’s aggression and mobility. IGN’s guide on the Twin Princes provides valuable tips for navigating this phase.

The Revival Mechanic

In this scenario, it’s crucial to remember that if you defeat Lorian before Lothric, Lothric will come back to life with roughly half his health. This means the battle between the two continues. Since focusing on Lothric is key to saving time and reducing frustration, strive to inflict as many blows on Lothric as possible, even if it means sustaining a few attacks from Lorian. For a better understanding of this mechanic, check out the Fextralife wiki on Lothric, Younger Prince.

Master the Princes’ Attacks

In this part, you’ll learn strategies for predicting and thwarting the Twin Princes’ assaults, transforming their strong points into vulnerabilities. As soon as you grasp their routines, you’ll discover opportunities to inflict significant harm.

Counter Lorian’s Moves

Initially, Lorian’s teleportation might seem overpowering, but he dashes rapidly around the battlefield, executing rapid attacks that appear hard to foresee. However, it’s worth noting that each time he teleports, his attack sequence resets, creating a valuable opportunity for you to respond. Keep an eye out for him reappearing, and be ready to evade. A tutorial video can help clarify Lorian’s tells and how to take advantage of them. With practice, you’ll find yourself becoming adept at forecasting his actions and retaliating against his attacks.

Avoid Lothric’s Projectiles

In the second phase of the game, we’re introduced to Lothric, who brings in ranged magical attacks as part of the action. He shoots homing magic projectiles while Lorian continues his teleporting attacks. Here, your main focus should be on evasion. Dodge the projectiles first since they follow your movement. Keep moving erratically until the projectiles disappear. Afterwards, revert to your strategy for dealing with Lorian. Avoid trying to attack during the barrage of projectiles—survival is crucial.

Predict Combo Attacks

Lorian’s individual attacks are generally easy to dodge, but his combos can be tricky. His long, sweeping strikes punish hasty dodges, so wait for the right moment to roll. Pay particular attention to his slam attack, where he plunges his greatsword into the ground, creating a wave of light. Dodging too early is ineffective; wait until the sword hits the ground to roll through the attack. As discussed in this Reddit thread, running away from this attack is a bad idea, as the light wave will likely catch you. Learning the timing of these combos is key to surviving the fight.

Win the Fight

Are you all set to conquer Lorian and Lothric once and for all? Here, you’ll find essential tactics to ensure your triumph prevails.

Target Lothric or Balance Attacks?

Focus your assaults on Lothric. In the second phase, you’ll battle both bosses at once. If you defeat Lorian first, it triggers Lothric to come back to life, restoring around half his health and making the fight last longer. However, Fextralife advises in their Lorian and Lothric boss guide, it’s better to target Lothric first to avoid this situation.

Positioning and Movement

Smart positioning is crucial. While focusing on Lothric, stay aware of Lorian’s attacks. Avoid standing directly in front of either prince and dodge frequently. When Lorian falls, Lothric will attempt a revival. Be prepared to evade Lothric’s powerful magic attack during this animation. A helpful tip from this Reddit discussion emphasizes dodging this specific attack.

Exploit the Revival

In the process of Lothric bringing Lorian back to life, there’s a brief moment when Lorian is weakened. This instant provides an excellent chance for you to inflict some additional blows. However, be careful during the revival period as it might cause area-of-effect damage. The Fextralife video guide emphasizes this chance for extra damage. Try to strike a balance between being aggressive and cautious to avoid sustaining unnecessary harm yourself.

Recommended Gear and Build

Are you preparing for your encounter with Lorian and Lothric? The right equipment and build could significantly impact your success in this tough battle. Keep these factors in mind when selecting your setup:

Effective Weapons

In this battle, a Quality Construction that strikes a balance between Strength and Agility provides remarkable flexibility. Notable weapons such as the Dark Sword and Estoc, renowned for their impressive scaling and special talents, are superb options. This equilibrium empowers you to adjust to the princes’ diverse attack styles, moving between swift attacks and powerful blows as circumstances demand. If speed is your preference, a Dexterity-focused build with the Uchigatana or Estoc can be extremely potent. These weapons enable quick strikes and evasive maneuvers essential for dodging Lorian’s sweeping attacks and Lothric’s magic.

Armor and Stats

While heavy armor might seem appealing, maintaining mobility is key against these agile princes. Prioritize lighter armor that allows for efficient dodging while still providing decent protection. Focus on leveling Vigor and Endurance for survivability. Don’t neglect Strength and Dexterity; a balanced approach, as recommended in several PvE builds, ensures you can wield powerful weapons effectively while maintaining stamina for dodging and attacking. Distributing your stats effectively between these two attributes also opens up a wider variety of weapons, giving you more options to find what clicks with your playstyle.

Fire Resistance

In the game Dark Souls 3, both Lorian and Lothric use fire attacks, so enhancing your resistance to fire is a good tactic. Look for armor with built-in fire resistance, such as the Fire Witch Set, or employ pyromancies like Flash Sweat which temporarily boost your defense against fire. Even a slight increase can lessen the damage you sustain, making the fight more controllable. Although it’s not necessary to build your character entirely around pyromancy, mastering fire defense is essential for this battle.

Avoid Common Mistakes

This fight is tough, but avoidable mistakes make it tougher. Sidestep these common pitfalls to increase your chances of victory against Lorian and Lothric.

Don’t Overcommit

A frequent blunder is becoming overly aggressive, particularly during the initial stage against Lorian. He’s swift, and recklessly charging attacks can leave you vulnerable when he teleports. Instead, opt for a more calculated strategy. As one player sagely suggested on Reddit, “Avoid attacking head-on… Attack to reach Lothric as he is crucial in this phase.” While both princes need to be vanquished, focusing on Lothric first increases your chances of success. Resist the temptation to grab more; patience is vital.

Manage Stamina and Healing

In Dark Souls 3, running out of Estus Flasks can lead to a catastrophe, as this battle proves. It’s crucial to preserve your healing items, particularly during the initial phase. You’ll find them indispensable for the tougher second phase where you encounter both princes at once. A Redditor echoed this sentiment: “I manage to get through phase 1 using Estus less than three times. It’s phase 2 that gives me the most trouble.” This underscores the significance of careful stamina usage and tactical healing. Avoid overextending with your attacks, and ensure each Estus use is strategic.

Watch for Phase Changes

The shift between stages is crucial. When Lorian collapses, Lothric brings him back to life. This resurgence presents an opportunity for you. During this resuscitation, Lothric is weakened and exposed. Rather than getting flustered, take advantage of this opening. Another Reddit user suggested this strategy: “Instead, simply attack Lothric while he’s on Lorian’s back.” Directing your assault towards Lothric during the revival can drastically reduce the second phase and bring you closer to winning.

Advanced Tactics

When you’re comfortable with the fundamentals, these sophisticated techniques will assist you in becoming a true expert at defeating the Twin Princes. These methods are particularly beneficial for those striving for a perfect win or attempting a time trial run.

Use I-Frames

I-frames” denote the instant you’re invulnerable during a dodge roll. Perfecting the timing for these moments is essential to dodging Lorian’s attacks, particularly in the initial phase. As Fextralife mentions in their tutorial video, Lorian’s teleportation assaults might initially seem intimidating. Nevertheless, his attack patterns restart following each teleport, which creates a pattern you can anticipate and dodge accordingly. Keep practicing the timing to consistently utilize this opportunity and minimize damage.

Manipulate Boss AI

In Phase 2, it’s Prince Lothric, the younger one, who poses a greater danger. The IGN guide advises targeting Lothric in combat. To make this strategy work, position yourself behind both princes. This tactic messes up their attack sequences and offers you an unobstructed view of Lothric. Attempt to move around them when Lorian is attacking, creating a chance for you to strike.

Speedrun Strategies

For speedrunners, every second counts. A key strategy, discussed in this Reddit thread, involves relentlessly attacking Lothric during the revival phase. However, be ready to dodge immediately after he revives Lorian, as Lothric’s magic attack during this animation can deal significant damage. This aggressive approach minimizes downtime and keeps the pressure on, crucial for a fast run.

Community Tips and Experiences

Overcoming Lorian and Lothric in Dark Souls 3 can be quite a challenge, even for veterans of the game. However, fear not, as the community is here to support you! Check out these helpful tips and shared experiences from other players that will aid you in defeating these royal siblings:

Veteran Strategies

Experienced players provide valuable insights about this battle. One frequently shared tip involves concentrating efforts on Lothric, the younger prince. As a Redditor explains, “Avoid attacking head-on. Attack to secure Lothric as he’s the focal point during this phase, but Lorian can also be engaged.” This approach underscores that although Lorian poses a threat, it is Lothric who holds the key to success. Another Reddit user suggests focusing on Lothric when Lorian revives: “Instead, strike Lothric while he’s riding on Lorian’s back.” This tactic exploits a crucial weak point. Keep in mind that Lothric’s magic is potent, particularly when combined with Lorian, as detailed on the Fextralife wiki. Targeting the younger prince during his vulnerable moments grants a significant edge.

Emotional Impact

Overcoming the tough battle, numerous gamers find this confrontation incredibly touching. The relationship between the siblings strongly resonates with the gaming community. A Reddit user articulately expresses the “sad yet beautiful symbolism” of the fight, emphasizing Lothric’s vulnerability and Lorian’s steadfast loyalty. This discussion encapsulates the emotional intensity that many players feel when battling these bosses. It’s a testament to the game’s storytelling power that a boss battle can evoke such powerful emotions. The bond between the siblings adds another dimension to the adventure, making the triumph even more significant.

Stay Motivated

After numerous tries, it can be disheartening, but don’t forget, victory is close at hand! Many gamers think the Twin Princes battle in the Dark Souls series is one of the best boss fights. One Reddit user even dubbed it “the finest fight in the souls series,” commending its difficulty, music, and emotional resonance. These sentiments underscore the sense of achievement and contentment that await you. Keep practicing, learn from your slip-ups, and eventually, you’ll conquer this tough battle. The payoff will be worth the work.

The Princes’ Legacy

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but feel the weight of this impending battle. It’s not just any ordinary fight; it represents the climax of Lothric’s epic narrative. Rich in lore and offering rare, one-of-a-kind treasures, every step forward uncovers more pieces of the Princes’ legacy. Delving into their heritage only intensifies the anticipation of victory, making the sweet taste of success all the more rewarding.

Rewards and Items

Beating the twins, Lorian and Lothric, rewards you with their souls known as the Twin Princes’ Souls in Dark Souls 3. Similar to other boss souls, you can convert these into two exclusive weapons: Lorian’s Greatsword and Lothric’s Holy Sword. The Lorian’s Greatsword is a strong sword that mainly boosts with Strength and Dexterity, dishing out waves of fire damage. On the other hand, Lothric’s Holy Sword scales with Faith and Intelligence, providing versatility by enabling both sorcery and miracle casting while also delivering reasonable physical damage. Additionally, Fextralife’s guide for Lorian and Lothric reveals a third hidden weapon—the Twin Princes’ Greatsword—which becomes available in New Game+ after crafting both soul weapons. This unique sword combines the fighting styles of Lorian and Lothric, offering a distinct moveset and damage potential.

Lore and Story Impact

In Dark Souls 3, the tale of the Twin Princes, Lorian and Lothric, stands out as one of the saddest narratives. According to the Dark Souls Wiki, Lorian, the elder prince, was an acclaimed knight, renowned for his triumphs against the remnants of the Chaos Demons. Despite his might, Lorian endured the same fragility curse as his brother Lothric, resulting in crippling. This self-imposed suffering symbolized their unbreakable bond, evident in their synchronized fighting style. A Reddit discussion reveals the poignant meaning behind their battle: Lorian tirelessly defends Lothric, demonstrating their strong emotional bond. In contrast, Lothric, despite his physical weakness, possesses potent magic, highlighting their mutual dependence. Their decision to not kindle the First Flame, a pivotal event in the game’s storyline, adds another layer to their narrative, transforming them from antagonists into tragic characters yearning for freedom from their endless cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions: Twin Princes Boss Fight

Why is the Twin Princes fight considered so important in Dark Souls 3?

This battle signifies a crucial turning point in the game’s storyline. It isn’t merely a tough hurdle to overcome; it’s an opportunity to face off against two tragic characters who chose to go against their fate. Their decision to not ignite the First Flame carries substantial consequences for the larger plot, and grasping their reasons provides a richer perspective on the encounter. Moreover, this fight is renowned for its innovative gameplay elements and strong emotional resonance.

What makes Lorian and Lothric such a challenging boss fight?

The special relationship between the brothers is what sets this fight apart as something extraordinary. The mix of Lorian’s swift and aggressive swordplay with Lothric’s magical assaults results in a battle that’s intricate and hard to predict. Since they share a health bar and have a revival mechanic, players must constantly adjust their tactics, transforming it into more than just a common boss fight. It’s not merely facing two separate entities; you’re dealing with a united force strengthened by a strong bond.

I’m having trouble with Lorian’s teleportation attacks. Any advice?

In the battle against Lorian, his teleportation ability may leave you feeling disoriented, but it’s not entirely unpredictable. After each teleport, there’s a short moment before he attacks again – use that time to either dodge or block. Keep your focus on identifying where and when he appears next, and be ready to move quickly. Resist the urge to launch multiple attacks; prioritize defense until you get a feel for his movements. A well-timed evasive roll will be your most effective tool in this fight.

What’s the best strategy for dealing with Lothric in the second phase?

In this battle, targeting Lothric is crucial for victory since as long as Lorian is alive, Lothric may resurrect his brother. Position yourself behind both princes to get a clean shot at Lothric, though beware of Lorian’s persistent attacks. This strategy might prove challenging but offers the best chance to bring the fight to an end swiftly.

What are some common mistakes to avoid in this fight?

Overplaying aggressively often leads to trouble. Lorian’s swiftness and Lothric’s magic can easily counterattack aggressive players. It’s essential to exercise patience and proper timing. Moreover, managing your stamina wisely is important as you’ll need it for both evading and attacking, particularly during the second phase. Lastly, be alert for the transition between phases since Lothric’s revival attack might take you by surprise if you’re not properly prepared.

2024-11-21 17:29