Dark Souls’ Gwyndolin is one of the most important figures in Lordran, even if that fact isn’t immediately recognizable. He has so much influence, more than you might think, which is why we're here, so you can learn everything about him, including his lore and his boss fight. Gwyndolin is just one of many characters you can encounter in the haunting world of Dark Souls, and understanding his role can enhance your gameplay experience.
As you journey through Lordran, you'll want to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of characters, lore, and the challenging boss fights that define the Dark Souls series. If you're eager to know more about the various bosses in Dark Souls, our comprehensive guide is a great resource. Each character adds depth to the story, making your exploration even more rewarding.
Here’s everything you need to know about Dark Souls Gwyndolin, from his tragic backstory to the encounters that await you in the game.
Who is Dark Souls’ Gwyndolin?
Dark Sun Gwyndolin is the youngest son of the first Lord of Cinder, Lord Gwyn. As such, this sorcerer is a god, alongside his two siblings – the nameless firstborn son and Princess Gwynevere. It’s fair to say that Gwyndolin didn’t have the best start in life, especially since he has an affinity with the moon, which is reflected in his title, Dark Sun.
Gwyndolin’s connection to the moon is quite significant. When your father is the Lord of Sunlight, and your siblings embody the ideals of sunlight, having an affinity for the moon sets you apart in a rather unfortunate way. His father, Gwyn, raised him as a girl due to the moon’s feminine connotation, which added to Gwyndolin’s struggles for acceptance and love from his family.
Despite the challenges and his father’s disappointment, Gwyndolin’s determination to earn his father’s affection never wavers. After Gwyn leaves to reignite the first flame, Gwyndolin takes on the duty of guarding his father’s tomb and watching over Anor Londo, the city of the gods. He remains the last deity in this once-great city, showcasing his resilience and loyalty.
Fate in Dark Souls 3
In the events of Dark Souls 3, Gwyndolin’s fate takes a dark turn. While players can choose to engage with him or leave him be in the original Dark Souls, his story continues in the sequel. Gwyndolin becomes a victim of Aldrich, who consumes him and uses his form as a puppet in the boss fight against players.
As you progress through Dark Souls 3 and return to Anor Londo, you’ll find the city transformed, reflecting the despair that has taken over. Aldrich's grotesque use of Gwyndolin in battle reveals the tragic end of a once-proud son of Gwyn, further emphasizing the cruel twists of fate that permeate the Dark Souls universe.
This conclusion is not only tragic but also poignant, as defeating Aldrich offers a chance for Gwyndolin to find some semblance of peace. For players, this narrative showcases the depth of character development and the emotional weight carried throughout the Dark Souls series.
Where do I find Dark Souls’ Gwyndolin?
Finding Gwyndolin can be a challenge due to the optional nature of his encounter. If you wish to meet this god, there are two primary paths you can take. One allows you to join Gwyndolin’s covenant, while the other positions you as an enemy in Anor Londo.
Your first option is to navigate the Catacombs, accessible from Firelink Shrine. This area is known for its difficulty and is better suited for players at a mid-level. As you venture through, your willingness to explore can lead you to the darkmoon seance ring, which is essential for gaining access to Gwyndolin.
Once equipped with the darkmoon seance ring, return to Anor Londo and approach the giant statue of Gwyn. When you wear the ring, the illusion of Gwyn will be revealed, opening a path leading to Gwyndolin. Engaging with him here can trigger a boss fight, but if you prefer to join the Blade of the Dark Moon covenant, speak to him from outside the gate instead.
Your second option involves confronting Gwynevere after defeating Ornstein and Smough. Attacking her reveals her true nature as an illusion created by Gwyndolin, which subsequently brands you as a traitor in the eyes of Anor Londo.
Understanding the Blade of the Dark Moon Covenant
The Blade of the Dark Moon covenant, led by Gwyndolin, is dedicated to punishing those who sin. If you wish to become a part of this group, you must first acquire the darkmoon seance ring and approach Gwyndolin in a peaceful manner.
Joining this covenant offers several rewards, including the blue eye orb, Darkmoon Blade, and Darkmoon talisman. It’s a highly regarded covenant for those who enjoy PvP and wish to engage in the intricate dynamics of Dark Souls’ multiplayer aspects.
- Blue eye orb
- Darkmoon Blade
- Darkmoon talisman
To gain the most from your experience with Gwyndolin, consider the implications of your choices. Whether you choose to fight him or join his covenant, each decision leads to different gameplay experiences that enhance the overall narrative of Dark Souls.
Strategies for the Gwyndolin Boss Fight
Gwyndolin is among the more intriguing bosses in Dark Souls, but he’s also one of the easier ones to defeat. The fight occurs in a long corridor filled with pillars, providing players with opportunities to avoid damage while Gwyndolin attacks with magic.
Utilizing the pillars allows you to shield yourself effectively. However, a magic reduction shield, such as the crest shield, can also be beneficial. After each spell, there’s a brief window where you can advance and strike back, repeating this process until Gwyndolin is defeated.
For magic users, the strategy differs slightly. Locking onto Gwyndolin can be difficult, so it’s advisable to close the gap and cast spells like soul spear before he has a chance to teleport away. Patience is key, as the fight may take longer due to the nature of magic combat.
In summary, the battle against Gwyndolin is not only a test of skill but also a testament to the rich lore and character development that Dark Souls is known for. Each encounter with Gwyndolin adds layers to the narrative, allowing players to appreciate the emotional depth of this haunting tale.
Phew, there you have it, everything you need to know about one of the most fascinating characters in the world of Dark Souls. Should you be after something new to play, our lists of the best games like Dark Souls and Soulslike games are sure to please you. We also have a list of Mortal Kombat 1 characters, in case you prefer fighting games.
