Dark Souls: 18 Best Shields
Dark Souls: 18 Best Shields
Dark Souls: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Shields
Dark Souls, the game famous for being as challenging as a Rubik’s Cube on fire, is an adventure that will test your skills, your patience, and potentially your sanity. With its lack of hand-holding and merciless enemies, you’ll need all the help you can get, and that means equipping yourself with the best shields available in the game. These shields not only provide defense but also offer unique abilities and resistances that can save your undead bacon in a world where death is just a frequent inconvenience.
The Importance of Shields in Dark Souls
In the unforgiving realm of Dark Souls, a shield acts as your trusted companion, a safety net to block and parry attacks, protect you from certain death, and give you that extra second to scream “No, not today!” as you narrowly escape the clutches of your enemies. Having a reliable shield is tantamount to survival, as many enemies hit like a truck filled with enraged, fire-breathing turtles. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of shield selection and find the perfect shield to complement your playstyle.
The Top Shields in Dark Souls
In the land of Lordran, shields come in all shapes, sizes, and levels of awesomeness. Here are the top shields that will transform you from an undead ragdoll into an unstoppable force:
18. Wooden Shield
– Where to find: Near the first bonfire in the Undead Burg.
Ah, the humble Wooden Shield. It may not be the flashiest shield in the game, but it’s a reliable companion in the early stages of your quest. Its ample defense will keep you safe from the relentless blows of enemies, allowing you to smoothly progress in the game without unnecessary deaths.
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17. Large Leather Shield
– Where to find: Starting equipment for the Hunter class. Alternatively, can be purchased from Andre of Astora for 800 souls or acquired as a rare drop from the Phalanx enemy in the Painted World of Ariamis.
Similar to the Wooden Shield, the Large Leather Shield offers great defense for those who want to take a less bulky approach. It’s a shield that serves beginners well, ensuring their survival against the countless tough enemies lurking in the shadows.
16. Bloodshield
– Where to find: In the Painted World of Ariamis, near the bridge with the Undead Dragon.
Feeling a bit adventurous? The Bloodshield enhances your resistances to Bleed, Poison, and Curse, making you less vulnerable to these debilitating effects. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy wielding weapons that inflict self-inflicted status effects.
15. Balder Shield
– Where to find: A rare drop from the Balder Knight. Alternatively, purchase from the Crestfallen Merchant for 4000 Souls.
The Balder Shield strikes a perfect balance between size, stability, and resistance. With its high stability, lightning and fire resistance, and moderate weight, this medium shield is a reliable choice for any adventurer in need.
14. Tower Kite Shield
– Where to find: Starter equipment for Knight. Alternatively, can be purchased from Andre of Astora for 1000 Souls.
If you prefer a medium shield that packs a punch, the Tower Kite Shield has got you covered. Despite being available early in the game, it holds its own until the final battle. With its impressive defense stats and accessibility, this shield becomes a faithful ally throughout your journey.
13. Target Shield
– Where to find: Initial equipment for Thief. Otherwise, found on a body just before the Capra Demon or as a rare drop from Undead Assassin.
For those who prefer agility over pure blocking, the Target Shield is a fantastic choice. It may not offer the strongest stats, but its increased parry window will make you feel like a graceful duelist, effortlessly deflecting enemy attacks with style.
12. Hollow Soldier Shield
– Where to find: A rare drop from Undead Soldiers wielding a sword.
Once a powerhouse shield that reigned supreme, the Hollow Soldier Shield may have been nerfed, but it’s still a valuable asset in Dark Souls. While its drop rate may be low, acquiring this shield unlocks its potential to protect you and withstand enemy assaults.
11. Dragon Crest Shield
– Where to find: Under a sleeping Zombie Dragon in the Valley of the Drakes.
When fire becomes your greatest enemy, the Dragon Crest Shield emerges as your guardian. With its exceptional fire resistance, it provides a reliable defense against the hottest of foes. Just remember to grab it before the Zombie Dragon wakes up!
10. Grass Crest Shield
– Where to find: At the bottom of Darkroot Garden.
Wishing for endless stamina? The Grass Crest Shield is a must-have for agile warriors and dodging enthusiasts. This shield grants a significant boost to stamina regeneration, allowing you to dance around enemies and strike with precision.
9. Eagle Shield
– Where to find: The upper part of Blighttown.
Often, greatshields are too heavy and demanding of high stats. However, the Eagle Shield defies this norm. This greatshield provides remarkable protection without the need for excessive Strength or Endurance, making it accessible to a broader range of players.
8. Heater Shield
– Where to find: Either get as a starting item for the Warrior or purchase from the Undead Merchant.
The Heater Shield is the epitome of lightness and efficiency. It may not have the grandest appearance, but it boasts 100% damage reduction and a fast parry speed. This lightweight champion is perfect for those seeking swift maneuverability and exceptional defense.
7. Greatshield Of Artorias
– Where to find: Ascend a +10 shield with the Soul of Sif.
Prepare for a journey to obtain one of the most coveted shields in the game, the Greatshield of Artorias. Created from the Soul of Sif, it offers unparalleled defense against physical attacks and grants 100% build-up reduction from bleed, poison, toxic, and curses. No longer shall status effects plague your undead existence!
6. Black Iron Greatshield
– Where to find: On a corpse in the grand painting hall of Anor Londo.
When you’re seeking heavy-duty protection against fire and physical damage, look no further than the Black Iron Greatshield. This behemoth of a shield excels in its fire damage reduction, stability, and status build-up resistance. Its powerful shield bash can also create breathing room amidst a swarm of enemies.
5. Silver Knight Shield
– Where to find: A rare drop from Silver Knights.
The Silver Knight Shield, the epitome of elegance and functionality, is a true masterpiece. This shield not only boasts sublime design but also provides exceptional defense. Its high stability makes it perfect for blocking enemies and its overall performance leaves a lasting impression on both allies and adversaries.
4. Black Knight Shield
– Where to find: Rare drop from the Black Knight.
When it comes to sheer power, the Black Knight Shield reigns supreme. As the pinnacle of medium shields, it exhibits incredible blocking capabilities and boasts the highest fire resistance in the game. Its rarity may make it elusive, but once obtained, you’ll wield a shield fit for an undead champion.
3. Spider Shield
– Where to find: Either get as starting equipment for the Bandit, find it on the bridge of the Valley of Drakes, or procure it above the Giant Rat in the Depths.
Ready to face the treacherous swamps of Blighttown? The Spider Shield is here to aid you. With its stylish appearance and high poison resistance, it’s the perfect companion for those venturing into toxic environments. Its moderate size and versatility make it ideal for both offense and defense.
2. Crest Shield
– Where to find: Dropped by Oscar of Astora.
Behold, the ultimate magic-resistant shield, the Crest Shield! As Oscar of Astora’s precious shield, it provides a staggering 80% magic reduction, ensuring you laugh in the face of devastating sorceries. With its versatility and upgrade potential, this shield becomes an invaluable tool in your undead arsenal.
1. Havel’s Greatshield
– Where to find: In a chest behind an illusionary wall in Anor Londo.
Ladies and gentlemen, we present to you the legendary Havel’s Greatshield, the shield that defines invincibility. This massive chunk of pure power blocks not only physical attacks but also provides unparalleled defense against almost all status effects. Its weight may be a burden, but for those who can handle it, this shield makes you an unstoppable force to be reckoned with.
Dark Souls is not just a game. It’s a test of your skill, determination, and ability to withstand inevitable defeat. These shields will become your steadfast companions as you traverse the treacherous world of Lordran. Choose wisely, and may your shield be an extension of your resilience and unyielding spirit. Now go forth, brave undead, and conquer the challenges that await you!
Dark Souls is available now for PC, PS3, PS4, Switch, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.
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