Here’s How to Make Dark Souls II Less Terrifying

Yeah, I know what you’re thinking: “No chance in hell I can survive Dark Souls II!”

It’s just a matter of getting your feet wet, though. If you can kick things off with a wee advantage, rather than starting with nothing, you’ll feel better. Right?

Developer From Software and publisher Namco Bandai have revealed that those who purchase the Black Armor or Collector’s Edition for the anticipated sequel will receive a special weapon pack.

If you’re one of those masochistic hardcore purists, you won’t want to redeem the code. But if you do opt to to partake, here’s what’s in the Black Armor Weapons Pack:

Black Flamestone Dagger and Black Flamestone Parma: A dagger and shield encrusted in Black Flamestone both found in the Gutter at Black Gulch. Even though they are heavier than a normal dagger and shield, the Flamestone crystal’s unique properties make the dagger extremely sharp and give the shield high resistance to damage.

Yellow Quartz Longsword and Yellow Quartz Shield: A straight sword and small shield hardened with yellow quartz both uncovered at the bottom of the Iron Keep. Even though these items can break easily due to their high level of corrosion, they are exceptionally light and their power to inflict damage has not declined.

Bound Hand Axe and Bound Wooden Shield: A brutal hand axe and shield found in the Undead Purgatory. Both items are wrapped in chains and thorns to cause additional bleeding on enemies. Both the axe and shield have diminished in overall slashing power but their ability to deliver pain has been deliberately increased.

Homunculus Mace and Homunculus Wooden Shield: A mace and shield with spherical protrusions found in Aldia’s Keep. Although heavier-than-normal maces and shields, the hard protrusions greatly increase the striking power of the mace as well as the shield’s defensive capabilities.

Transgressor’s Staff and Transgressor’s Leather Shield: A staff and leather shield entwined with an unknown and seemingly lacklustre element; these items are found in the Dark Chasm of Old. They have become a catalyst for sorcery and hex and cause an effect known as Darkness.

Admit it. You’re thinking about it. Dark Souls II drops on March 11 for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.