Can I Access Dark Souls DLC After The Final Boss?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

Yes, you can access the Artorias of the Abyss DLC in Dark Souls after defeating the final boss Gwyn. As long as you select the "Continue" option when prompted instead of starting New Game Plus, the DLC remains open for you to experience.

Can I Get To The DLC After Beating Gwyn?

Accessing the additional content after beating Gwyn and seeing the credits roll is entirely possible:

  • Choosing "New Game" after Gwyn instantly starts New Game Plus, locking you out.
  • Selecting "Continue" allows you to respawn at your last bonfire in the same playthrough, with DLC intact.

So as long as you don‘t enter New Game Plus, the DLC can still be played post main game.

When Is The Best Time To Play The DLC?

While accessible post-game, playing the DLC beforehand is highly recommended:

  • The Abyss features tough enemies and bosses suited for end-game builds. Earlier could be quite difficult.
  • Experiencing the additional content before the final areas provides better narrative pacing.
  • Once Gwyn is defeated you risk accidentally rushing into NG+ and losing access that playthrough.

I‘d recommend clearing other bosses first, leaving Gwyn himself alive. This allows you to tackle the DLC at peak strength without the risk of skipping straight into a second playthrough.

How To Actually Start The Artorias Of The Abyss DLC

Gaining access involves completing a short questline:

  1. Kill Darkroot Hydra and reload the area
  2. Interact with the glowing portal that spawns behind where Hydra was
  3. Place the Anor Londo-obtained Lordvessel to prompt DLC events
  4. Kill Golden Crystal Golem in Darkroot Basin to receive Broken Pendant
  5. Interact with the portal again to enter the DLC

So in summary, yes you can play the Dark Souls DLC after beating the main game‘s final boss Gwyn. Just select "Continue" instead of New Game Plus at the end!

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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