Lost? Dark Souls 2: Where To Go After Lost Bastille [Guide]

The phrase “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille” represents a common query among players navigating the early-to-mid game progression of Dark Souls 2. It signifies the point at which players have typically overcome the challenges of the Lost Bastille area and are seeking guidance on their next destination within the interconnected game world. Examples of valid destinations at this stage include No-Man’s Wharf accessed through a nearby area, or exploring the path towards Huntsman’s Copse, which typically requires a key obtained earlier in the game.

This point in the game is significant because it highlights the non-linear nature of Dark Souls 2‘s world design. Unlike some games with strictly linear progression, this title offers multiple paths forward after certain milestones. Successfully navigating these choices is crucial for efficient character development, acquisition of necessary equipment, and ultimately, completion of the game. The need for this information indicates a player’s desire to optimize their experience and avoid potentially overwhelming areas.

Understanding the options available following the Lost Bastille involves considering player character build, preferred playstyle, and the current state of their inventory. The subsequent sections will outline the primary pathways and provide considerations for making an informed decision about the player’s next destination. Factors such as enemy difficulty, available items, and storyline progression will be discussed.

Navigating the World After the Lost Bastille

Successfully conquering the Lost Bastille unlocks several avenues for progression in Dark Souls 2. Strategic decision-making at this juncture significantly impacts the subsequent game experience.

Tip 1: Consider Character Build: Assess the strengths and weaknesses of the current character build. Melee-focused characters may benefit from pursuing areas with opportunities for acquiring stronger weapons and armor, while magic-oriented builds could prioritize locations with access to new spells and catalysts.

Tip 2: Evaluate Available Keys: Revisit previous areas to identify locked doors or paths that could not be accessed before. The Bastille Key, acquired in the Lost Bastille, opens doors in areas like the Forest of Fallen Giants, potentially revealing valuable items or shortcuts.

Tip 3: Explore No-Man’s Wharf: A viable option is No-Man’s Wharf. Access to this zone is achieved by using the bird’s nest near the Servants’ Quarters bonfire. This area presents a different set of challenges and opportunities for acquiring unique items and progressing a specific storyline.

Tip 4: Investigate Huntsman’s Copse: Huntsman’s Copse presents another significant path, but often requires the key from Majula, purchased from Melentia. This area leads to more challenging encounters and eventually connects to other major locations in the game.

Tip 5: Upgrade Equipment: Before venturing into new areas, ensure equipment is adequately upgraded. Visit blacksmiths like Blacksmith Lenigrast in Majula to reinforce weapons and armor, increasing survivability against tougher enemies.

Tip 6: Manage Estus Flasks and Lifegems: Stock up on healing items before progressing. Estus Flasks are crucial for sustained survival, while Lifegems provide supplementary healing, particularly useful in areas with limited Estus opportunities.

Tip 7: Adapt Playstyle: The environments and enemy types encountered after the Lost Bastille often necessitate adjustments to playstyle. Experiment with different weapons, spells, and tactics to overcome new challenges effectively.

Effective utilization of these guidelines can greatly enhance the post-Lost Bastille experience, leading to more efficient character progression and a deeper understanding of the game’s interconnected world.

Careful consideration of these factors will aid in charting a course through the remainder of the game’s challenging world.

1. No-Man's Wharf

No-Man’s Wharf functions as a direct and readily accessible progression path following the completion of the Lost Bastille section in Dark Souls 2. Its accessibility stems from a straightforward transportation method: interacting with the nest near the Servants’ Quarters bonfire within the Lost Bastille area will transport the player to the beginning of No-Man’s Wharf. The area introduces new enemy types and environmental challenges, including a reliance on light management to navigate the darkness effectively. This pathway directly addresses the query of where to go after the Lost Bastille by providing a tangible, alternative route. The cause is defeating the Ruin Sentinels, and the effect is opening up this accessible route. Its significance lies in offering an alternative to more challenging or gated routes, like Huntsman’s Copse.

The practical implications of choosing No-Man’s Wharf involve a change in gameplay focus. The player must adapt to navigating dimly lit environments and dealing with enemies that possess unique attack patterns. Successful navigation of the wharf provides access to valuable items, including upgrade materials and equipment tailored to different character builds. Overcoming the challenges of No-Man’s Wharf ultimately grants access to the boss fight with the Flexile Sentry, the successful completion of which unlocks further progression to the next major area. For example, early players may be drawn to the wharf for the Steady Hand McDuff merchant who reinforces weapons with Titanite Chunks after the player has given him the Dull Ember. This is a notable improvement to weaponry earlier than many other routes.

In conclusion, No-Man’s Wharf represents a key component of the options available to players at the “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille” juncture. Its accessibility, unique challenges, and progression opportunities make it a viable and often preferred path for players seeking to advance their game. However, players must be aware that this area can be perilous for those lacking adequate gear or strategy. Its value as a starting point for progress depends on the individual playstyle and character strengths. The availability of McDuff helps many players prioritize this area to help give their current weapons the edge they need to succeed.

2. Huntsman's Copse

Huntsman’s Copse constitutes one of the significant pathways a player may choose after completing the Lost Bastille in Dark Souls 2, thereby directly addressing the “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille” query. This area is not immediately accessible upon leaving the Bastille; it requires the acquisition of the key from Melentia in Majula, introducing a delayed progression mechanic. A cause of action being the player’s desire to venture into the copse, and the effect necessitating a purchase from the vendor. Its importance lies in providing a distinct change of pace and environment compared to the preceding areas, while simultaneously funneling players towards other critical locations later in the game. It offers an alternative route, with unique challenges and opportunities, demonstrating the non-linear design of the game’s world structure.

The practical implication of choosing Huntsman’s Copse involves navigating through densely wooded areas populated by hostile hollows, undead dogs, and necromancers. These enemies require careful and strategic approaches due to their varied attack patterns and the environmental constraints. Successful navigation leads to further branching paths, ultimately connecting to Harvest Valley and Earthen Peak, both essential areas for progressing the main storyline. A concrete example: Huntsman’s Copse contains the Undead Lockaway bonfire, which, when accessed, provides a convenient location for players to farm souls, upgrade materials, and acquire specific items. Choosing this route can lead to an accelerated character progression if players are prepared for the increasing difficulty.

In conclusion, Huntsman’s Copse represents a key directional choice impacting player experience directly related to “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille”. While not the only path, its unique setting, challenges, and connections to subsequent areas make it a significant destination. Successfully navigating Huntsman’s Copse allows further progression and provides access to valuable resources and encounters, while the necessity of acquiring the key before entering adds a layer of strategic decision-making for the player, forcing them to consider a detour to secure the required item.

3. Character Build

Character build plays a pivotal role in determining the optimal path following the Lost Bastille in Dark Souls 2. The effectiveness of different builds varies significantly depending on the enemies and challenges presented in each area, directly influencing the player’s experience and success rate, thus affecting the “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille” choice.

• Melee Strength Builds and Enemy Armor

  Strength-based builds, focusing on heavy weapons, often encounter difficulties against heavily armored enemies. The Lost Bastille itself features such enemies, potentially leaving players with strength builds under-leveled or under-equipped to tackle similar challenges. Subsequent areas like Huntsman’s Copse, with its mix of enemy types, may offer a better proving ground and resource acquisition for such builds, while No-Man’s Wharf, with its dark environment and faster enemies, might pose initial difficulties. Choosing a path better suited for overcoming high armor enemies will be a better choice for this type of build.

• Dexterity Builds and Weapon Scaling

  Dexterity builds, relying on faster weapons and precise timing, benefit significantly from weapons with high Dexterity scaling. The accessibility of certain weapons in specific areas influences the choice. If a player with a Dexterity build has yet to acquire a weapon with optimal scaling, No-Man’s Wharf, known for its agility-focused combat and potential for acquiring suitable weapons, might be the preferred choice. Huntsman’s Copse, with its more varied enemy placements, can offer opportunities for practicing weapon skills and improving timing. Early access to a quality scaling weapon can heavily influence the path chosen.

• Magic-Focused Builds and Spell Availability

  Magic builds, encompassing Sorcery, Miracles, Pyromancy, and Hexes, are highly dependent on spell availability and the acquisition of catalysts. Areas with access to early spell vendors or hidden spell locations become highly desirable. No-Man’s Wharf, while not offering direct spell vendors, can provide items that enhance magic damage. Huntsman’s Copse, with its connection to later areas containing more advanced magic resources, might be chosen as a stepping stone. Making a decision about which build to follow, is made easier when the player knows where to obtain key spells and equipment.

• Hybrid Builds and Resource Allocation

  Hybrid builds, combining elements of melee and magic, require careful resource allocation across multiple attributes. The choice of which area to explore after the Lost Bastille depends on the player’s need for specific upgrade materials and equipment to support their hybrid approach. No-Man’s Wharf and Huntsman’s Copse offer different advantages for hybrid builds, such as access to versatile weapons or opportunities for farming specific upgrade stones. The correct balance of stats in a hybrid build will determine the areas that offer the best possible support, and resources.

The interplay between character build and area selection following the Lost Bastille is crucial for a successful Dark Souls 2 playthrough. Recognizing the strengths and weaknesses of the character, aligning those with the challenges and opportunities presented in each area, and making informed decisions based on available resources and progression goals are essential for optimal progress. The query “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille” is therefore not merely a question of geographical location but a strategic consideration deeply intertwined with character development. An improper decision can lead to repeated death scenarios, while a good one ensures the player has access to the things they need to succeed.

4. Key Acquisition

Key acquisition is a fundamental element influencing progression choices after the Lost Bastille in Dark Souls 2. Access to certain areas and optional content is often gated behind locked doors or mechanisms requiring specific keys. Therefore, the availability of keys directly affects the player’s options for advancement and dictates potential destinations in the immediate aftermath of the Lost Bastille. This dependency makes understanding key locations and their corresponding areas of access crucial for effectively addressing the “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille” query.

• Bastille Key and Forest of Fallen Giants Exploration

  The Bastille Key, found within the Lost Bastille itself, unlocks previously inaccessible areas within the Forest of Fallen Giants. This allows players to revisit locations, uncover hidden items, and potentially face new enemy encounters. Acquiring the Bastille Key broadens immediate options by providing an alternative path that might have been initially overlooked, allowing players to acquire items, upgrade materials or covenants. It exemplifies how early key acquisition enables further exploration of previously traversed regions, thus impacting progression following the Lost Bastille.

• Grave Warden Key and Undead Purgatory Access

  The Grave Warden Key is acquired from the Huntsman’s Copse, which then grants access to the Undead Purgatory. Players who want to engage in the Brotherhood of Blood covenant may want to head to the Purgatory upon acquiring the key. This illustrates how key acquisition in one zone directly unlocks the access to other optional zones. The key to advancing the story is often through these optional covenants that yield significant rewards and items for those who embrace the covenant and fulfill its requests.

• The Antiquated Key and McDuff’s Workshop

  The Antiquated Key obtained in No-Man’s Wharf allows access to Steady Hand McDuff’s workshop in the Lost Bastille. This impacts equipment upgrade options significantly as McDuff can infuse weapons after receiving the Dull Ember. This presents a strategic choice: prioritizing No-Man’s Wharf not solely for area progression but for unlocking essential services that enhance character capabilities. This key is a crucial item to acquire for many players who rely on upgrading early weapons for much of the game.

• Blacksmith’s Key and Lenigrast’s Services

  While acquired before the Lost Bastille, possession of the Blacksmith’s Key is crucial for leveraging the full potential of equipment upgrades with Blacksmith Lenigrast. The initial investment in obtaining this key allows players to continually enhance their weapons and armor, boosting their survivability and damage output in subsequent zones. Choosing the best zone after the Bastille depends on having the right weapon reinforcement ready for use.

In conclusion, key acquisition profoundly influences progression choices directly after the Lost Bastille and throughout Dark Souls 2. Securing specific keys unlocks previously inaccessible areas, granting access to new resources, enemies, and storylines. Understanding key locations, their corresponding unlocks, and the strategic implications of obtaining each is fundamental for navigating the game’s world and efficiently planning the character’s journey. This process is central to any consideration of “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille” by emphasizing the interconnectedness of zones and the impact of player decisions on their immediate options.

5. Equipment Upgrade

Equipment upgrade represents a critical mechanic in Dark Souls 2, directly influencing player survivability and combat effectiveness. The strategic decision of where to go after the Lost Bastille (“dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille”) is inherently linked to the availability of resources and opportunities for enhancing equipment.

• Blacksmith Access and Upgrade Availability

  Access to blacksmiths, such as Lenigrast in Majula or Steady Hand McDuff in the Lost Bastille (after obtaining the Antiquated Key), directly impacts the feasibility of upgrading equipment. A player lacking access to these services might prioritize areas that facilitate unlocking or reaching them, influencing the “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille” decision. The availability of Titanite shards, large shards, chunks, and slabs is crucial for the strength of upgraded equipment.

• Material Farming and Enemy Drops

  Certain areas offer better opportunities for farming specific upgrade materials. For instance, enemies in Huntsman’s Copse might drop Titanite shards, while No-Man’s Wharf could provide access to upgrade materials through exploration or vendor acquisition. The need for specific materials to enhance equipment can significantly sway the decision on which area to tackle next. The need for specific materials is a serious reason to choose one route over another for many players.

• Weapon Reinforcement and Stat Scaling

  Upgrading equipment influences stat scaling, impacting damage output based on the player’s attributes. A player with a Dexterity-focused build would benefit from upgrading a weapon with high Dexterity scaling, potentially incentivizing them to explore areas where such weapons or upgrade materials are more readily available. Weapon reinforcement is a serious decision for many players who want to ensure their weapons deal the most damage possible.

• Armor Enhancement and Defensive Capabilities

  Enhancing armor improves defensive capabilities, increasing resistance to physical and elemental damage. A player struggling with survivability in a specific area might prioritize areas with readily available armor upgrade materials or access to merchants selling upgraded armor pieces. Enhancing and upgrading armor should be a key decision when deciding which path to choose.

The pursuit of equipment upgrades forms a central component of the strategic decision-making process when considering “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille”. The need to access blacksmiths, farm materials, optimize stat scaling, and enhance defensive capabilities all contribute to the rationale behind choosing a specific path. Effectively managing equipment upgrades is essential for navigating the challenges of Dark Souls 2 and ensuring a successful playthrough. Access to resources will often dictate to players where they need to go and what they need to do.

6. Estus Flasks

The quantity and potency of Estus Flasks directly influence a player’s survivability and ability to explore new areas in Dark Souls 2. At the point where players commonly seek guidance on “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille,” the number of Estus Flasks they possess often dictates their willingness to tackle riskier areas. A player with only a few Estus Flasks might prioritize areas with easier enemies or bonfires closer together to mitigate the risk of death, as each death consumes valuable resources. The cause of death is not having an adequate supply of healing, and the effect being a loss of souls and a return to the last bonfire. The amount of Estus and their effectiveness is paramount to success in this game. Therefore, Estus Flask availability serves as a critical component in the decision-making process when choosing a path after the Lost Bastille.

For example, if a player has invested heavily in upgrading their Estus Flasks using Estus Flask Shards found throughout the game, they might feel more confident in venturing into Huntsman’s Copse, a region generally considered more challenging than No-Man’s Wharf for some builds. Conversely, a player with few Estus Flasks and minimal upgrades could opt for No-Man’s Wharf, where the path, although dark and requiring careful navigation, might seem less demanding in terms of sustained combat and health management. The practical significance lies in players making informed choices about their next destination based not solely on geographical location or perceived difficulty, but on their immediate capacity to sustain themselves through attrition.

In conclusion, the availability and strength of Estus Flasks directly impact a player’s confidence and capabilities when choosing a path following the Lost Bastille in Dark Souls 2. The number of flasks acts as a key limiting factor, influencing the perceived difficulty of each area and guiding players towards paths that align with their current resources and survival capabilities. While skill and strategy are important, the accessibility of reliable healing through Estus Flasks often dictates the initial willingness to explore more challenging zones, linking directly to the query of “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille”. The game is not necessarily difficult, but unforgiving, and the Estus Flasks and Lifegems can help overcome this unforgiving element.

7. Enemy Difficulty

Enemy difficulty represents a primary factor guiding players’ decisions following the Lost Bastille in Dark Souls 2. A player’s assessment of their capabilities relative to the challenges presented by different enemy types directly shapes their preferred path, answering the persistent question of “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille.” The challenge level, combined with the character’s current build and resources, serves as a critical consideration when mapping a course through the world.

• Enemy Variety and Encounter Design

  Different areas present varying compositions of enemies and encounter scenarios. No-Man’s Wharf features a mix of agile, fast-attacking enemies, some of whom can inflict poison, within a dark environment that restricts visibility. Huntsman’s Copse offers a different challenge, with a blend of melee-focused hollows, ranged necromancers, and roaming undead dogs in open, albeit forested, environments. Players must weigh their strengths and weaknesses against the specific enemy combinations and environmental hazards in each area to determine the most manageable path.

• Adaptability and Resource Management

  Overcoming enemy difficulty necessitates adaptability in combat tactics and efficient resource management. If a player struggles against the heavily armored Ruin Sentinels in the Lost Bastille, they might prefer No-Man’s Wharf to avoid similar enemy types, emphasizing dexterity-based combat and poison mitigation. Alternatively, players comfortable with managing crowds and exploiting enemy weaknesses could choose Huntsman’s Copse, utilizing ranged attacks and strategic positioning to their advantage. The ability to adapt combat strategies and conserve resources is paramount in both areas, but the specific skills required differ, influencing player preference.

• Level Design and Bonfire Placement

  Level design and the proximity of bonfires play a significant role in mitigating the impact of enemy difficulty. Areas with frequent bonfire placements reduce the consequences of death, allowing players to learn enemy attack patterns and explore more aggressively. Conversely, areas with sparse bonfires demand a more cautious and deliberate approach. No-Man’s Wharf features a relatively linear path with bonfires strategically placed, while Huntsman’s Copse is more sprawling and can require navigating longer stretches between checkpoints. The density of bonfires influences the risk-reward assessment, impacting players’ willingness to engage with challenging enemies.

• Item Acquisition and Progression Gates

  Enemy difficulty can directly impact the acquisition of essential items required for progression. Certain enemies might drop key items, upgrade materials, or covenant-related objects. The perceived difficulty of overcoming those enemies influences the player’s decision to pursue a specific area. A player needing a specific item might endure a more challenging area despite the increased risk, whereas a player prioritizing general character progression might opt for an easier path to accumulate souls and upgrade their gear. Therefore, the perceived value of the potential rewards is directly weighed against the challenges posed by the enemies guarding them.

In summary, enemy difficulty constitutes a fundamental aspect that players must confront when deciding “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille”. Evaluating enemy compositions, considering personal combat aptitudes, assessing level layouts, and weighing the potential rewards offered by each area allows players to make informed choices that align with their goals. The query “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille” is not merely a question of location but a calculated risk assessment based on the player’s readiness for the challenges that lie ahead. The better the player can assess these challenges, the more likely they are to succeed in their chosen destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries regarding optimal pathways following completion of the Lost Bastille area in Dark Souls 2. The information is intended to provide clarity and strategic guidance for players navigating this juncture in the game.

Question 1: What are the immediate options after defeating the Ruin Sentinels?

Upon defeating the Ruin Sentinels, two primary routes become accessible: No-Man’s Wharf, accessible through a nest transformation near the Servants’ Quarters bonfire, and Huntsman’s Copse, which requires purchasing a key from Melentia in Majula. Other options include revisiting previous areas like the Forest of Fallen Giants with the Bastille Key to unlock new sections.

Question 2: How does character build influence the decision on which area to choose?

Character builds heavily influence the optimal path. Strength-focused builds may find Huntsman’s Copse more suitable for acquiring upgrade materials, while Dexterity builds might prefer No-Man’s Wharf due to its agility-based combat. Magic-oriented builds will benefit from prioritizing areas based on access to new spells and catalysts.

Question 3: What is the importance of key acquisition in determining the next destination?

Key acquisition is crucial, as certain areas remain inaccessible without specific keys. The Bastille Key unlocks new sections in the Forest of Fallen Giants, while the Antiquated Key (from No-Man’s Wharf) grants access to Steady Hand McDuff in the Lost Bastille. Obtaining necessary keys expands exploration options and provides access to valuable resources.

Question 4: How does equipment upgrade affect the selection of the subsequent zone?

The player’s current equipment level and upgrade status influence the choice of area. If a player lacks adequate upgrades, they may prioritize areas with readily available upgrade materials or access to blacksmith services. Prioritizing equipment improvement can make a challenging area manageable.

Question 5: What are the primary challenges and rewards associated with No-Man’s Wharf?

No-Man’s Wharf presents challenges such as dimly lit environments, agile enemies, and poison hazards. Rewards include access to unique items, upgrade materials, and the Flexile Sentry boss fight, which unlocks further progression. Acquiring the Antiquated Key that opens access to Steady Hand McDuff, the blacksmith, is also a very important point of progression.

Question 6: What are the primary challenges and rewards associated with Huntsman’s Copse?

Huntsman’s Copse presents challenges such as varied enemy compositions, including melee and ranged attackers, and treacherous terrain. Rewards include access to upgrade materials, connections to subsequent areas like Harvest Valley and Earthen Peak, and opportunities for covenant-related activities. This area is usually harder than No-Man’s Wharf because of the varied range and type of enemies.

In summary, the optimal path following the Lost Bastille is contingent on character build, key acquisition, equipment upgrade status, and individual playstyle. Careful consideration of these factors will aid in charting a course through the remainder of the game’s challenging world.

The next section will provide a final compilation of tips and strategies for effectively navigating the progression after the Lost Bastille.

Navigating the Post-Bastille Crossroads

The exploration of “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille” reveals a crucial decision point in the game. The analysis has demonstrated that there isn’t a singular, objectively “correct” path. Rather, the optimal choice hinges on a convergence of factors: character build, available resources (such as keys and upgrade materials), preferred playstyle, and tolerance for specific enemy types. The two primary routesNo-Man’s Wharf and Huntsman’s Copseeach present distinct challenges and opportunities, catering to different strengths and preferences.

Ultimately, the decision on how to proceed reflects a deeper engagement with the game’s design. By carefully evaluating the character’s capabilities and aligning them with the challenges that await, players can maximize their chances of success and continue their journey through the unforgiving world of Dark Souls 2. The “dark souls 2 where to go after lost bastille” conundrum highlights not just a geographical choice, but a strategic imperative, prompting players to adapt, experiment, and forge their own path. The game demands both skill and strategic planning in order to survive and prevail.