From the haunting forests of the High Wall to the suffocating dread of the Abyss, Dark Souls 3 presents a world where every decision, every whispered covenant, and every treacherous path is a test of your resolve. To truly master this unforgiving realm, understanding the complex web of allegiances is not just helpful; it is fundamental to the experience. These pacts, etched in blood and shadow, dictate your allies, your enemies, and the very narrative that unfolds around the Ashen One. This guide serves as a definitive resource, dissecting the purpose, requirements, and consequences of every covenant available in the land of Lothric.
The Foundation of Allegiance
At their core, covenants in Dark Souls 3 are structured factions vying for control of the fading First Flame. By joining one, you align yourself with a specific philosophy, a set of NPCs, and a unique gameplay loop that dictates where you can summon others and where you might be summoned yourself. The game expects you to delve deep into these organizations, pushing past their initial offering to unlock their true, often hidden, potential. The journey through a covenant is a narrative and mechanical odyssey, rewarding dedication with powerful allies, exclusive items, and a profound sense of belonging to a twisted world’s intricate politics.
The Ashen One: Your Covenant Journey Begins
The Undead Church
Your pilgrimage invariably starts within the Undead Church, a grim sanctuary that serves as the default hub for all Unkindled. Here, you are introduced to the concept of kindling and the fragile nature of your Undead Curse. While not a formal covenant at first, this location is your point of no return. From the bell altar, you can initially access the Firelink Shrine, the central hub of the entire game, setting the stage for the alliances to come. This is the quiet before the storm of ideological choices.
The Brotherhood of Blood
Nestled within the Undead Church, the Brotherhood of Blood is the first covenant you can formally join, offering a straightforward path for the new Unkindled. Its promise is simple: aid the Violent Priestess Eygon and Irina of Carim in cleansing the latter of her darkness, in exchange for the ability to kindle for other players at the Main Altar. This covenant is a masterclass in pacing, forcing you to confront early game challenges and understand the vital role of Estus Flask management. It provides a safe, guided introduction to the multiplayer mechanics that define Souls 3.
The Shadows of Lothric: Expanding Your Influence
Sword of the Dark Moon
Venturing into the grand Cathedral of the Deep unlocks the path to the Sword of the Dark Moon, a covenant steeped in tragedy and martial honor. Led by the stoic Knight Artorias, the Abyss Watchers are consumed by the very darkness they fought. Joining them transforms your gameplay, turning you into a relentless, dual-wielding whirlwind of damage. This path is for those who relish aggressive combat, offering the powerful Wolf Ring and the ability to summon the formidable Executioner’s Chariot, a boss that feels less like an ally and more like a terrifying extension of your will.
Ember of War
Deep within the Demon Ruins, the primal force of the Bed of Chaos awaits. The Ember of War covenant harnesses this chaotic energy, allowing you to wield powerful pyromancies without the need for a catalyst. By aiding the amiable Fire Keeper, you embrace a philosophy of raw, destructive power. This covenant is a favorite among magic-focused builds, providing the Archdrake Banner for devastating sorceries and the ability to summon the fearsome Old Demon King, a battle that tests your resolve and rewards you with immense strength.
