In the vast landscape of Elden Ring Nightreign, players are continually exploring new avenues of gameplay, especially with the introduction of the Duchess as a playable character. This guide will walk you through the steps to unlock this intriguing character, ensuring that you can enhance your gameplay experience while taking on the various challenges the game presents.
The game starts with eight Nightfarer classes, although only six are available right after the tutorial. Unlocking the Duchess involves a specific quest line, beginning with a key item—the Old Pocketwatch. This relic is vital for players aiming to experience the unique abilities and skills of the Duchess.
Where to Get the Old Pocketwatch
To begin your journey in unlocking the Duchess, the first step is acquiring the Old Pocketwatch. It is one of the many equipable Relics in Elden Ring Nightreign, always bestowing the same bonuses, though obtaining it may require some time and effort.
The most reliable method to secure the Old Pocketwatch is by completing the game’s first expedition and defeating the first boss, Gladius, the Beast of Night. This encounter can be initiated by selecting the Tricephalos Expedition, the only available expedition at the start of the game.
Upon defeating Gladius—a formidable three-headed canine—players unlock the rest of the expeditions, while also securing the Old Pocketwatch as a reward. Those who find Gladius too challenging initially should not lose heart; the pocketwatch can also drop randomly, even on failed attempts at the expedition. Persistence is key, and players will eventually collect the pocketwatch through either success or a bit of luck.
Give the Pocketwatch to the Priestess
Once you’ve obtained the Old Pocketwatch, the next step involves a familiar figure at the expedition table—the robed Priestess. With this item in hand, approach her and interact by selecting the option to show her the Old Pocketwatch.
Doing so causes her to reveal her true identity as the Duchess. This moment transforms her from a simple NPC to a playable character. Players will find that she continues to appear throughout the Roundtable Hold in both her priestess attire and her new look, emphasizing her pivotal role in the game.
Playing as the Duchess
The Duchess embodies the quintessential RPG rogue archetype, bringing unique advantages that enrich the gameplay experience significantly. Her passive ability offers an extended dodge, allowing players to maneuver out of harm’s way more effectively than with other classes. This double hop ability makes her a nimble character, enhancing survival rates during clashing battles.
Active abilities further distinguish her from other Nightfarer classes. The Old Pocketwatch enables her to recreate the last two seconds of damage inflicted on an enemy. When a foe endures a significant hit from a riposte or ultimate attack, the Duchess can rewind that moment, effectively imposing a "ghost" of the recent event that causes the enemy to experience half that damage again. This can be a strategic advantage, especially in high-stakes battles.
Moreover, the Duchess has a remarkable ultimate ability that grants temporary invisibility to her party. This stealth feature allows players to navigate through daunting encounters without being targeted, making it easier to bypass tougher opponents when the team isn’t quite ready for an all-out confrontation. However, it’s crucial to remember that this stealth advantage vanishes once the team initiates an attack.
Conclusion
Unlocking the Duchess in Elden Ring Nightreign not only provides players with a new character to explore but also adds layers of strategy to gameplay. With the balance of her unique abilities—from increased mobility through her dodging capabilities to creating tactical advantages in combat—players will find that she is an invaluable asset in their adventures.
Engaging with the initial steps—from defeating Gladius to unlocking the dialogue with the Priestess—ensures a smoother transition into utilizing the innovative mechanics that the Duchess brings. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned veteran of the game, pursuing the Duchess can elevate your experience and broaden the dynamic gameplay that Elden Ring Nightreign is known for.
