So, you're diving back into the brutal world of Dark Souls 3, huh? Maybe you've conquered it before, or perhaps you're gearing up for your first complete run. Either way, having a 100% save file without the DLC can be a massive timesaver. This article will guide you through why you might want one, what it includes, and where to find a reliable save file to get you started.

Why a 100% Save File?

Let's face it, Dark Souls 3 is a massive game. Achieving 100% completion is a monumental task that requires countless hours of gameplay. For some, the grind is the game, and that’s perfectly fine! But for others, it can be a bit tedious, especially if you've done it before. This is where a 100% save file shines. It lets you skip the repetitive tasks and jump straight into the action with all the goodies unlocked.

Imagine starting the game with every weapon, armor set, spell, and item already in your inventory. You can experiment with different builds from the get-go, without spending hours farming for specific drops or grinding through early levels. This is especially useful for players who enjoy PvP or co-op, as it allows you to create optimized characters instantly.

Think about it this way: Instead of spending countless hours farming Silver Knights for that one specific armor piece, you can start experimenting with various builds and strategies right away. It's all about efficiency and maximizing your enjoyment of the game. A 100% save file can also be incredibly useful for content creators, allowing them to showcase different aspects of the game without having to invest excessive time in grinding.

Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer looking to experience the full breadth of Dark Souls 3 without the grind, a 100% save file can be a game-changer. It's all about tailoring your experience to match your preferences and maximizing your enjoyment of this iconic game.

What's Included in a 100% Save File (No DLC)?

Okay, so you're intrigued. But what exactly do you get with a 100% save file that excludes the DLC content? Let's break it down.

First and foremost, expect all base game weapons and armor sets. That means every sword, shield, helmet, and pair of leggings that Dark Souls 3 has to offer, all sitting pretty in your inventory. No more praying to the RNG gods for that Black Knight Sword; it's already yours! This includes boss weapons, which can be a real pain to acquire without a completed save.

Next up are the rings. Every single ring obtainable in the base game will be yours. This is a big deal because rings can drastically alter your character's stats and abilities. Having access to the Ring of Favor, Havel's Ring, and all the other essential rings from the start gives you a massive advantage.

All spells and pyromancies are also unlocked, meaning you can sling fireballs, cast miracles, and buff yourself to the nines right from the start. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities for character builds, allowing you to experiment with magic without having to spend hours tracking down every spell.

Consumables? You bet! A 100% save file typically includes a generous supply of every consumable item in the game. This means you'll have plenty of Estus Flasks, embers, and other helpful items to keep you alive and kicking. No more running out of healing items in the middle of a tough boss fight!

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, all bonfires will be unlocked. This allows you to travel freely throughout the game world, accessing every area and boss without having to fight your way through hordes of enemies. It's a huge time-saver and allows you to focus on the aspects of the game you enjoy most.

In short, a 100% save file gives you complete freedom to explore and experiment with the game's mechanics without having to grind for hours. It's a fantastic way to experience the full breadth of Dark Souls 3 without the time commitment.

Where to Find a Reliable Save File

Finding a safe and reliable Dark Souls 3 100% save file (without DLC) can be a bit tricky. The internet is full of files, but not all of them are created equal. Some may be corrupted, while others might contain unwanted modifications or even malware. Here's how to navigate the digital landscape and find a save file you can trust:

Nexus Mods: This is generally the safest and most recommended option. Nexus Mods is a reputable website that hosts mods and save files for a wide variety of games, including Dark Souls 3. The community is active, and users often report any issues or concerns with specific files. Look for save files that have been highly rated and downloaded frequently. Always read the comments section before downloading anything to see if other users have encountered any problems.

Dark Souls 3 Forums: Dedicated Dark Souls 3 forums, such as those on Reddit or Steam, can also be a good source for save files. Players often share their own creations and provide instructions on how to install them correctly. However, exercise caution when downloading files from forums, as the risk of encountering malicious software is slightly higher than on Nexus Mods.

YouTube and Gaming Websites: Some YouTubers and gaming websites may provide links to save files in their video descriptions or articles. Again, be careful when downloading files from these sources, and always scan them with an antivirus program before using them.

Things to Consider:

• Version Compatibility: Make sure the save file you download is compatible with your version of Dark Souls 3. If you have an older version of the game, a save file created with a newer version may not work properly.
• DLC Status: Double-check that the save file does not include any DLC content if you specifically want a base game save. Some save files may claim to be 100% but still require you to own the DLC to function correctly.
• File Integrity: Before using a save file, scan it with an antivirus program to ensure it is free of malware. It's always better to be safe than sorry!
• Backup Your Own Save: Before replacing your existing save file with a downloaded one, make a backup of your own save. This way, if something goes wrong, you can easily restore your original progress.

By following these tips, you can minimize the risk of downloading a corrupted or malicious save file and enjoy the benefits of a 100% completion without any headaches.

How to Install the Save File

Alright, you've found a reliable 100% save file – great! Now, how do you actually get it working with your game? Here's a step-by-step guide to installing the save file correctly:

1. Locate Your Dark Souls 3 Save Folder: First, you need to find the folder where Dark Souls 3 stores your save files. This folder is usually located in your AppData directory, which is hidden by default. Here's how to access it:
   • Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
   • Type "%appdata%" and press Enter.
   • This will open the Roaming folder. From there, navigate to DarkSoulsIII(your Steam ID). The Steam ID is a long number specific to your Steam account.
2. Backup Your Existing Save File: Before you do anything else, it's crucial to back up your current save file. This way, if something goes wrong, you can easily revert to your original save. Simply copy the entire folder containing your save file to another location on your computer.
3. Extract the Downloaded Save File: The save file you downloaded will likely be in a compressed format, such as a ZIP or RAR file. Extract the contents of the archive to a location on your computer. You should find one or more files with names like DS30000.sl2.
4. Replace Your Existing Save File: Now, copy the extracted save file(s) into the DarkSoulsIII(your Steam ID)\ folder. If there's already a file with the same name, overwrite it.
5. Launch Dark Souls 3: Start the game and select "Load Game" from the main menu. You should now see the 100% save file in your list of available saves. Load the save, and you're good to go!

Troubleshooting:

• Save File Not Showing Up: If the save file doesn't appear in the Load Game menu, make sure you've placed it in the correct folder. Double-check your Steam ID and ensure that the save file is compatible with your version of the game.
• Game Crashing: If the game crashes when you try to load the save file, it may be corrupted or incompatible with your system. Try downloading a different save file from a different source.
• Anti-Cheat Issues: In rare cases, using a downloaded save file may trigger anti-cheat software. If this happens, you may need to disable anti-cheat or play offline. However, be aware that disabling anti-cheat may limit your ability to play online with other players.

By following these steps carefully, you should be able to install the 100% save file without any issues and start enjoying the game with all the items, weapons, and spells unlocked.

Enjoy Your Adventure!

So there you have it, a comprehensive guide to finding and installing a Dark Souls 3 100% save file without the DLC. With all the items, weapons, and spells at your fingertips, you're ready to tackle the game in a whole new way. Whether you're experimenting with different builds, dominating in PvP, or simply exploring the world, the possibilities are endless. Happy gaming, and may the flames guide thee!