In Dark Souls Remastered (DS1), the primary and most significant way to increase your casting speed for certain spell types is by investing in your Dexterity stat. Unlike some other titles in the Souls series where various catalysts, chimes, or specific rings might influence casting speed, DS1's mechanics are more straightforward in this regard.
Dexterity and Spellcasting Speed
For both Sorceries and Pyromancies, your Dexterity stat directly impacts how quickly you cast these spells. The more Dexterity you have, the faster your casting animation will be. This effect reaches its maximum benefit at 45 Dexterity. Beyond this point, further investment in Dexterity will not provide additional casting speed improvements for these spell types.
- Sorceries: Casting speed is improved with Dexterity.
- Pyromancies: Casting speed is improved with Dexterity.
- Miracles: The casting speed for Miracles is not affected by your Dexterity stat. Their animations have a fixed speed regardless of your stats or equipment.
What Does NOT Affect Casting Speed in DS1?
It's important to clarify common misconceptions or mechanics present in other games within the Souls series that do not apply to Dark Souls 1:
- Catalyst/Talisman Type: In DS1, the specific catalyst used for sorceries (e.g., Sorcerer's Catalyst, Izalith Catalyst) or talisman used for miracles (e.g., Talisman, Sunlight Talisman) does not affect your casting speed. Their primary differences lie in spell adjustment, scaling, and occasionally unique properties. While some games feature varying casting speeds across different magic implements or chimes, this is not a feature in DS1.
- Rings: There are no rings in Dark Souls 1 that provide a direct bonus to casting speed. Rings like the Bellowing Dragoncrest Ring or Lingering Dragoncrest Ring enhance spell damage or duration, respectively, but do not alter casting speed. Specific rings found in later Souls games designed for casting speed, such as the Clear Bluestone Ring, are not present in DS1.
Optimizing Your Casting in DS1
To maximize your casting efficiency and improve your combat flow in Dark Souls 1:
- Reach 45 Dexterity: If you plan on primarily using sorceries or pyromancies, leveling Dexterity to 45 is essential for the fastest possible spell delivery. This allows for quicker attacks, more reliable spell combos, and better opportunities to dodge or reposition after casting.
- Positioning: Even with maxed casting speed, effective positioning is crucial. Ensure you have clear sightlines and enough distance or an opportune opening to cast safely without being interrupted.
- Spell Animation Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with the casting animation length of each spell. Some spells naturally have longer wind-ups than others, even at 45 Dexterity, which must be factored into your combat strategy.
| Spell Type | Affected by Dexterity? | Dexterity Cap for Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Sorceries | Yes | 45 |
| Pyromancies | Yes | 45 |
| Miracles | No | N/A |
