Dark Souls 3, renowned for its challenging gameplay and intricate item system, offers players a plethora of equipment to enhance their journey. Among these, the Gold Serpent Ring stands out as a coveted artifact for treasure hunters and completionists alike. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about obtaining and utilizing this powerful ring to maximize your item discovery potential.
What is the Gold Serpent Ring?
The Gold Serpent Ring, officially known as the Covetous Gold Serpent Ring, is a crucial accessory in Dark Souls 3 that significantly enhances the wearer’s item discovery rate. This ring increases the likelihood of enemies dropping rare and valuable items upon defeat, making it an essential tool for efficient farming and resource gathering.
Description and Basic Effects
The base version of the Gold Serpent Ring increases item discovery by 50 points. This substantial boost can mean the difference between a frustrating farming session and a bountiful haul of rare materials and equipment. For players who enjoy collecting rare items, this ring is as valuable as some of the best exotics in Destiny 2.
Lore and Symbolism
The ring’s design features a snake that, according to its item description, “could have been a dragon.” This imagery taps into the rich symbolism of Dark Souls lore, where snakes often represent greed and the corrupting influence of power. The ring’s association with avarice is further emphasized by its “covetous” title, suggesting that those who seek wealth through greed may find a certain kind of freedom – or perhaps, a different form of bondage.
Where to Find the Gold Serpent Ring
Obtaining the Gold Serpent Ring requires a bit of exploration and problem-solving, true to the Dark Souls experience. The quest to find this ring is reminiscent of the epic journeys found in some of the best Xbox 360 RPGs.
Exact Location in Profaned Capital
The Covetous Gold Serpent Ring is located in the Profaned Capital, a late-game area known for its challenging enemies and intricate level design. Specifically, the ring is found inside a locked cell, sharing space with Siegward of Catarina if you’ve been following his questline.
Step-by-Step Directions to Access the Ring
- Navigate to the Profaned Capital bonfire.
- Head towards the toxic swamp area.
- Climb to the roof of the chapel above the swamp.
- Locate a window in the adjacent building.
- Carefully jump through the window to enter the building.
- Navigate through the interior to find the locked cell.
Required Items
To access the cell containing the Gold Serpent Ring, you’ll need the Old Cell Key. This key can be found in the Irithyll Dungeon, an area you’ll likely explore before reaching the Profaned Capital. Ensure you’ve thoroughly searched the dungeon to obtain this crucial item before attempting to retrieve the ring.
Gold Serpent Ring Variants
As you progress through New Game+ cycles or explore DLC areas, you’ll have the opportunity to obtain upgraded versions of the Gold Serpent Ring. This progression system is similar to how players might seek out the rarest mounts in World of Warcraft, with each upgrade representing a new achievement.
Base Ring Stats and Upgraded Versions
- Covetous Gold Serpent Ring: +50 Item Discovery
- Covetous Gold Serpent Ring +1: +75 Item Discovery
- Covetous Gold Serpent Ring +2: +100 Item Discovery
- Covetous Gold Serpent Ring +3: +115 Item Discovery
Locations of Upgraded Versions
- +1: Found in the Undead Settlement during NG+
- +2: Located in Archdragon Peak (base game)
- +3: Discovered in The Ringed City DLC
How the Gold Serpent Ring Works
Understanding the mechanics behind item discovery is crucial for maximizing the Gold Serpent Ring’s potential. This knowledge can be as game-changing as mastering the Borderlands 3 Conference Call in its respective game.
Item Discovery Mechanics
Item discovery in Dark Souls 3 is a hidden stat that influences the probability of enemies dropping items upon defeat. The base item discovery for most characters is 100, which the Gold Serpent Ring and its variants directly increase.
Specific Effect on Drop Rates
While the exact formulas are not publicly disclosed, it’s generally accepted that each point of item discovery translates to a 1% increase in drop rates. This means the base Gold Serpent Ring effectively increases your chances of rare drops by 50%.
Stacking with Other Item Discovery Boosters
The Gold Serpent Ring’s effects can be combined with other item discovery-enhancing equipment and consumables for even greater benefits:
- Crystal Sage’s Rapier: +50 Item Discovery
- Symbol of Avarice (Mimic Head): +100 Item Discovery
- Rusted Coins: Temporary +50 Item Discovery boost
Strategies for Using the Gold Serpent Ring
To make the most of the Gold Serpent Ring, consider the following strategies:
Best Situations to Equip the Ring
- When farming specific rare items or upgrade materials
- During end-game content where every advantage counts
- In areas with high enemy density for efficient farming
Farming Rare Items and Materials
- Identify the enemy that drops your desired item
- Equip the Gold Serpent Ring and any other discovery-boosting gear
- Clear the area of other enemies to focus on your target
- Defeat the target enemy and check for drops
- Rest at a bonfire to reset the area and repeat
This methodical approach to farming can be as satisfying as the strategic combat found in games like For Honor.
Expert Tips for Maximizing the Gold Serpent Ring
To truly master the use of the Gold Serpent Ring, consider these advanced techniques:
Optimal Farming Locations
- Anor Londo silver knights for Proof of Concord Kept
- Lothric Castle for Titanite Scales and Chunks
- Archdragon Peak for Twinkling Titanite
Complementary Builds/Stats
- Luck-based builds synergize well with item discovery
- Consider investing in Endurance for longer farming sessions
Time-Saving Techniques
- Use homeward bones or the coiled sword fragment to quickly reset areas
- Optimize your route to minimize time between kills
Conclusion
The Dark Souls 3 Gold Serpent Ring is a powerful tool for any player looking to maximize their item acquisition. By understanding its mechanics, knowing where to find its variants, and employing smart farming strategies, you can significantly enhance your Dark Souls 3 experience. Whether you’re a completionist seeking every rare item or a casual player looking to ease the grind, mastering the use of the Gold Serpent Ring will undoubtedly enrich your journey through the challenging world of Dark Souls 3.
For those seeking more action-packed adventures after mastering Dark Souls 3, consider exploring games like God of War for a similarly epic experience.
