Best products from r/darksouls

you would need a video capture device. you can get a Dazzle for like $50, but it will be shit quality (SD). or you can get one of the HD capturing devices like the Hauppauge HD PVR($190) or Hauppauge Colossus($140) or Avermedia Live HD($220)

HD PVR and Colossus are pretty much the same product, but the HD PVR is a USB box where as the Colossus is just a PCI card. HD PVR might be more convenient, but costs a bit more. Avermedia Live HD is supposed to be the best but I haven't gotten to use it yet.

then you need a computer powerful enough to encode the video in realtime. not sure how good of a PC you need, but video encoding mainly only uses the CPU so you need a good one of those especially for HD.

then you need a fast enough internet to stream the video, 1mb per second preffered for HD.

the software for streaming is called Xsplit. it's free but you can subscribe for additional features.

you could grab yourself a twitch.tv account and Xsplit and try to stream some screen regions to get an idea of how it works.

In my opinion for a good entertaining stream you're going to want to be in HD with a good mic and a webcam. Then all you need is a good entertaining personality, easy!

If you have a lot a lot of money, figure out a way to import the trilogy edition of the Dark Souls remaster from Japan. I think it may only be for PS4 but it comes with all the games and a lot of great goodies. Otherwise if money is tighter there are some amazing Art Books (design works) you can buy online. Dark Souls 1 to 3 (3 comes out in August) with some absolutely stunning artwork from the game.

• https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Souls-Design-Works-Software/dp/1926778898/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1521814296&sr=8-1&keywords=Dark+Souls+Art
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Souls-II-Design-Works/dp/1927925568/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1521814305&sr=1-1&keywords=Dark+Souls+2+Art
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Souls-III-Design-Works/dp/177294064X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1521814383&sr=1-1&keywords=Dark+Souls+3+Art
  
  Some other neat ideas if he does not already have them would be the Dark Souls 2 & 3 Collectors Edition. Now these do break the bank at around $200-300 a piece (I think you can buy both for $400 USD combined) but the statues they come with are absolutely beautiful.
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Souls-II-Collectors-PlayStation-3/dp/B00F6YD2FK/ref=sr_1_2?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1521814448&sr=1-2&keywords=dark%2Bsouls%2B3%2Bcollectors%2Bedition&th=1
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Souls-III-Collectors-PlayStation-4/dp/B0191J0SE8/ref=sr_1_1?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1521814448&sr=1-1&keywords=dark%2Bsouls%2B3%2Bcollectors%2Bedition&th=1

I'm around 30 hours into the game (PC). The controls aren't "terrible", but keyboard + mouse definitely takes a lot more effort than the controller. The game is definitely designed to be more comfortable using a controller. Maneuvering and timing attacks are definitely a lot more effortless with a controller. Definitely not necessary, but definitely recommended. Here's the controller I use

As for if it's worth it on PC: Definitely. Even without the controller, the game plays well. There are no bugs so far (I haven't finished the game, but I'm fairly certain I've at least been to 70% of the places in the game, and no bugs so far). Just get the 1920x1080 mod (works like a charm) and the new 60fps mod, and you'll be set. It should be better than playing on the console (especially in previous zones like Blightown that has issues with lag)

tldr: If you got yourself a controller (not necessary, but recommended), and the 1920x1080 and 60fps mods, buy PC version and have no regrets.

Hmm, if budget is a problem I would say either a gaming headsett which can come from anything from 70 to 100$ like the Logitech G35 or Turtle beach Earforce PX21 for 50-95$. If you're just looking for a good microphone I would say look at a microphone like SINN 7 Podcast microphone, which you can get for about 70-80$. These are just amazon prises, so i believe that you can get it cheaper somewhere from a local store, if not a online store in you're region. Getting the high quality sound would require a 60$+ Headset or microphone.

The SINN 7 Podcast microphone Is a really good microphone which I recommend you get if you plan on doing allot of these lore videos or something similar in the long run. As it is a cardioid microphone which is excellent for recording speeches/vocal, if you do get one of these I would also recommend you buy pop filter too, or just make one yourself, not that hard.

You have a really soothing voice, which is relaxing to listen to. So I recommend the SINN 7 or a microphone similar following the cardioid for recording vocals, as it can filter out allot of background noises.

I think you could really make anything work, but I think mouse+keyboard and controllers would be a lot closer than what a lot of people think.

Personally, I'm going to try it with a mouse+keyboard first, then my razer hydra, then I'll move onto a controller, whichever one feels best I will use.

It took me roughly an hour to teach myself to play SC2 using the hydra, I consider this to be much less of a challenge. That was actually harder than I thought. I did get better after a few days though, but I never bothered making another video.

Either way the game is going to be awesome.

Pretty simple really. For those that can't handle the issues with setting up the game on their PC I recommend these simple steps.

1. Turn on your computer and choose one of the following search items: 1 or 2
   
   
2. Purchase said item and hook it up at home.
   
   
3. Also ensure to purchase one of these corresponding items: 1 or 2
   
4. Put second item into first item and you are set.
   

5. Enjoy!
   

   
   

   P j/k

This is the one I use. There's keyboard/mouse controller fix stuff in the sidebar- in particular, there's a link to a fouse fix in the Beginner's Installation Guide- but I bought a controller just to play Dark Souls because I figured that would make things exponentially easier. (It helps with other games like Metal Gear Rising and Final Fantasy VII too!)

This was my first and only(for now) attempt at a mead, did it specifically for my wedding. Not as delicious as I was hoping, but it only aged for 6 months, so there's still time for the leftovers! Feel free to use these bottles:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00YB6HPU2?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

and grab a vinyl cutter and you can make awesome labels too!

Better yet, buy a wireless controller.

http://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Xbox-Wireless-Controller-Windows/dp/B004QRKWKQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1345477894&sr=8-1&keywords=controller for windows

The dongle the controller comes with connects up to 4 360 controllers wirelessly. Perfect for PC games that play better with controllers and emulating old games with multiplayer. (Turtles in Time? Xmen Arcade?)

While there will probably be rudimentary mouse and keyboard controls just like other xbox ports, I highly recommend buying a wired xbox (or xbox knock-off) controller for your PC. There are so many games that just play better on controller and as an avid PC gamer I believe this is one of them.

this controller is what I use for example.

I'm not sure then. You'd think it's just install drivers and be all plug & play since it's all Microsoft.

Depending on how much you play games on the PC, you could invest in a controller for it. Personally, I would avoid anything but an "xbox for PC" controller, as I've heard prople having issues with other games when using non-xbox controllers.

Something like this should do the trick. There's also wired ones that are $10 cheaper.

There is also this item, which is a wireless receiver that claims to work with an Xbox controller, which will allow you to use it with your PC. Upside, it's like $12. Downside, it's 3rd party. In theory, it should work, but YMMV. I've only used the one that came with mine.

Alright then. I despise fighting with uncooperative software, so I'll pony up for a new/mostly new wired X360 controller.

https://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Wired-Controller-Windows-Console/dp/B004QRKWLA/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1527705063&sr=1-5&keywords=xbox+360+controller+wired+pc

https://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Xbox-360-Wired-Controller/dp/B003ZSN600/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1527705063&sr=1-3&keywords=xbox+360+controller+wired+pc

Would you say either of these would work? Is one better than the other? I'd be getting the second offer on the one only available from third parties so there wouldn't be a big difference in price.

Really appreciate the help either way.

Although not Dark Souls 2 specific, a true Dark Souls fan would love to get the Design Works book: http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Souls-M-Kirie-Hayashi/dp/1926778898/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1407172279&sr=8-1&keywords=dark+souls+design+works

I use an Xbox 360 controller and so far it works great for DS and other console ports. Drivers are built in so is just plug and play. To make the game better do install DSFix though and look up some texture mods on Dark Souls Nexus but I found the experience better with a controller.

Roxio is meh. It really is not the best choice at the price. Here are your best options. Both work on Mac and PC:

Hauppauge HDPVR


Elgato Game Capture HD


Best Mac recording software. Also "obtainable" by "other" means...

Best PC recording and editing same "situation" as above

Advice: Save more money. DO NOT cheap out on capture cards. The 2 that I listed are very high quality and I have personal experience with both and have liked them all. I have also had experience with the Roxio and the quality and ease of use just does not compare to that of the Elgato or the Hauppauge. These will last you quite a while for multiple generations of devices. You will regret going with a Dazzle, Roxio, AverMedia HD, etc. etc.

Here you go, some great software company has you taken care of

http://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Xbox-360-Controller-Windows/dp/B004QRKWLA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1345901511&sr=8-3&keywords=xbox+controller+pc

Less than the game on steam, honestly if you're going to play on the pc, you should own one. Dark souls isn't the first game to be better with a controller, and neither will any Souls sequel.

http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Souls-Collectors-Playstation-3/dp/B00542ZQJO/ref=sr_1_11?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1426694748&sr=1-11&keywords=dark+souls+prepare+to+die

Best bet is to buy used. Select xbox360 collectors version and sort through the prices and descriptions of the used/collectors ones. This is what I did. It came from Japan in less than two weeks in good condition.

I would assess what you want to stream and specifically consider what is going to set your stream apart from all the other Let's Plays and live streams out there.

After you've determined that, then look at what your streaming options are going to be (I think the Hauppauge HD PVR 2 Gaming Edition might be your only viable option as a stand-alone recording device for the 360). However there are some other varieties of pass-through/recording devices if your laptop/PC can support it.

I would love to buy that, but i have been a Playstation man all my life and my hands have adapted to the curves of my ps3 controller, so i'm buying this that looks like a ps3 controller

I know it is less than ideal, and the controller is poorly designed in that aspect, but Real Triggers Are very cheap and can bought on Amazon or at Gamestop and totally solve the flaw. I have a pair for every controller I own and have been using them for a couple years.

If you buy the 'normal' xbox 360 controller (meaning product title does not say 'for windows') you can usually save a couple dollars, and the products are identical. I recommend ordering from amazon

There's a little more work involved, but it would work:

https://support.xbox.com/en-US/xbox-on-windows/accessories/connect-xbox-one-controller-to-pc

If you get a wired Xbox 360 controller, though, it's completely plug and play without any hassle. They're relatively cheap on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004QRKWLA

You can actually buy, for like $5 ($3 on Amazon), clip on shoulder buttons that give it that classic PS2 controller feel. Cheap and easy to clip on.

Here's the link. I don't know how much of the original is going to make it into the English version. Hopefully it includes translated interviews.

Here's a link to the Amazon page if you want to pre-order it :)

http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Souls-Design-From-Software/dp/1926778898/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1370329576&sr=8-2&keywords=dark+souls+design+works

If you went with Amazon a decent amount of time ago then you will get a CE. I don't know the validity of this, but if you check your order details and the product link goes to:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00542ZQJO

Then you should have a CE secured.

I just got a controller with a fan in it off amazon, and love it. I was planning on getting a controller just for Dark Souls, but then the Steam summer sale happened...

It's like $7.50 on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Souls-Prepare-Edition-Online/dp/B00917DBUE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1377796431&sr=8-2&keywords=dark+souls

As far as I can tell, the art is from the Dark Souls: Design Works book, illustrated by Udon and published by From Entertainment.

http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Souls-Design-From-Software/dp/1926778898/

I got what appears to be an automated message:

>Hello,
>
>We're sorry for the delay in shipping the order you placed on September 19 2011. We have good news -- the order is now being shipped! You should receive a shipping notification shortly, within the next business day, for the following item(s):
>
> "Dark Souls Collector's Edition"
> http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00542ZQJO
>
>The shipping notification will include an updated estimated delivery date and tracking information if it's available.
>
>We apologize for the inconvenience caused by this delay.

But my account doesn't show it as being shipped. It doesn't even say "Shipping Soon." Given what others have said it's tough to figure out where to go from here. I'm so tempted to just leave right now and go to the Best Buy or GameStop, pick up a copy of the regular edition, and cancel my preorder with amazon.

Did anyone who talked to a service rep also get this email only to find out that it's actually on back-order?

Not exactly sure where you're getting $60 from...

Don't buy it used. Buy it new for $5 more and make sure From gets their cut instead of filling Gamestop's pockets.

You can get it off here brand new from Amazon for a buck more than gamestop.

Yeah, DS2 has an almost identical control set up for both keyboard and controller. I'd suggest buying a controller. If you don't want to wireless (controller + wireless receiver) you could always try a wired controller link

Or something less official

You can buy Dark Souls for PS3 for 12 bucks (counting shipping) on amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B004NRN5EO/ref=sr_1_1_olp?ie=UTF8&qid=1369597302&sr=8-1&keywords=dark+souls&condition=used

Yea its showing up as 30 for me. If it stays screwy you can try buying it somewhere else.

Like here

http://www.gamestop.com/pc/games/dark-souls-prepare-to-die-edition/102777

or here

http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Souls-Prepare-Edition-Online/dp/B00917DBUE/

It runs through steam regardless of where you bought it I believe.

[It's on sale right now!] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00917DBUE/ref=dsvrt_review_asin_detail)

Here you go.

Buy one off of amazon...

http://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Wired-Controller-Windows-Console/dp/B004QRKWLA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452053756&sr=8-1&keywords=xbox+360+controller+pc

$30 for the real thing, or $42 for one with a usb transceiver included.

Seems to be available on Amazon.ca and Canadian distributors.

That was easy

Most likely it's just the game. What you are describing is the Collector's Edition which came with artbook, downloadable soundtrack, and tips/tricks map.

http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Souls-Collectors-Edition-Playstation-3/dp/B00542ZQJO

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004NRN5EO/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_2n3lxbNE9M37G

And here it is on Amazong.co.uk for UK and Ireland.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dark-Souls-Design-From-Software/dp/1926778898/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1370376008&sr=8-2&keywords=dark+souls+design+works

It looks like there's a problem with the Amazon sale. I tried to buy it, and the order failed; got the most painful runaround from their customer services. Turns out (according to them) that they're having "licensing" issues, and aren't sure if the product will be back online (on sale or otherwise).

Anyone got any details on this? http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Souls-Prepare-Edition-Online/dp/B00917DBUE/ is the store page. I'd like to know (assuming anyone's got more information than me :) whether or not it's likely to appear back in the sale, or if I'm wasting my time clicking refresh a lot :)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00917DBUE/ref=s9_al_ft_g367_ir020?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-4&pf_rd_r=0K36M87HB7DXZJW35B26&pf_rd_t=1401&pf_rd_p=1557113242&pf_rd_i=1000716161
$7.50 on amazon. Not American? No issue, just find an American address on Google earth and get a fake phone number.

I think they're publishing the book here in the US starting sometime this year. I'll see if I can dig up the amazon link.


Fake edit: Yerp: http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Souls-Design-Works-Software/dp/1926778898/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1371445625&sr=1-1&keywords=dark+souls

• Don't unlock fps (30fps is OK for DS1). If you put something like 60fps, your character will fall down from stairs, getting stuck in the floor and ruining your whole savegame.
  
• Buy a controller. Just buy it. Playing DS1 on keyboard/mouse is the shittiest thing you can do in your life. Really, just buy a controller, it will boost your PC-gamming for other games too.
  
• Some texture packs can drop your FPS perfomance, other texture packs will ruin the whole atmosphere created by Miyazaki
  
• Git Gud!