Does Onyx Blade DS3 Have Any Special Weapon Art?

The 'Onyx Blade' in 'Dark Souls 3' is one of those weapons that just oozes style and power, especially if you're into hybrid builds. This greatsword scales with both Intelligence and Faith, making it perfect for pyromancers or dark magic users. Its base moveset is similar to other greatswords, featuring horizontal slashes for crowd control and a strong vertical chop for single targets. The weapon art, 'Elfriede’s Blackflame,' is where it truly shines—it buffs the blade with dark fire, adding extra damage and a cool visual effect. One thing I love about the 'Onyx Blade' is its versatility. The R2 attacks have decent range, and the rolling R1 is quick enough to catch opponents off guard. The buff lasts a solid 45 seconds, so you can pre-buff before engaging. It’s also surprisingly lightweight for a greatsword, letting you stay mobile. Pair it with the 'Prisoner’s Chain' or 'Ring of Favor' for extra survivability. If you’re looking for a weapon that balances raw power and dark aesthetics, this is it.

I can confidently say the 'Onyx Blade' stands out for its unique blend of magic and physical damage. Unlike traditional greatswords like the 'Claymore' or 'Black Knight Sword', the 'Onyx Blade' scales with both Intelligence and Faith, making it a powerhouse for hybrid builds. Its weapon art, 'Elfriede’s Blackflame', buffs the blade with dark damage, adding a layer of versatility that most greatswords lack. What really sets it apart is its range and moveset. The 'Onyx Blade' has a deceptive reach, often catching opponents off guard in PvP. While it may not hit as hard as the 'Fume Ultra Greatsword' in pure physical damage, the dark damage buff more than compensates, especially against enemies weak to magic. It’s also lighter than many ultra greatswords, allowing for better mobility. For spellswords or dark builds, it’s easily one of the top choices.

Okay, let me gush for a minute — the Onyx Blade in 'Dark Souls III' feels like a weapon that sits between two personalities. It isn't twitchy like a straight sword nor lumbering like an ultra greatsword; it swings with deliberate intent. When I use it, I notice its horizontal arcs have a nicer reach and a weight that makes each hit feel meaningful, so it punishes sloppy spacing from opponents who expect a light-sword rhythm. Mechanically, the moveset plays out as a hybrid: you get solid R1 strings that aren't super-fast but chain smoothly, and the R2s tend to be chunkier, often trading well because of that reach. Its rolling and backstep R1s catch people trying to poke at close range; I often bait a roll and then follow up with a horizontal R1 to clip their recovery. Compared to a straight sword, you give up some speed but gain more satisfying range and poise pressure; compared to a greatsword, you keep more agility while still landing heavier hits. Beyond pure moves, the weapon art is the secret sauce — it adds zoning or an extra hit that changes how you approach fights. In casual duels I mix a few swings with weapon-art feints to keep folks guessing, and in PvE it shreds enemies that cluster because the arcs connect well. If you like a sword that rewards thoughtful spacing and timing rather than pure button-mashing, the Onyx Blade is a really fun middle ground.

I can tell you the Onyx Blade is one of those hidden gems that’s totally worth the hunt. You'll find it in the 'Ashes of Ariandel' DLC, specifically in the Corvian Settlement. From the bonfire, head past the bridge where the giant wolf attacks, then drop down into the ruined buildings. There’s a tower with a ladder—climb it, and you’ll find a NPC named Vilhelm. Defeat him, and the Onyx Blade is yours. This weapon is a beast for dark builds, scaling with both intelligence and faith. Its weapon art buffs it with dark damage, making it perfect for pyromancers or dark spellcasters. The area itself is tricky, though, with those creepy Corvian knights lurking around. Pro tip: Bring a shield with high stability or learn to parry—Vilhelm hits hard but is manageable if you stay calm. The Onyx Blade’s sleek design and lore ties to the Sable Church of Londor make it a favorite among lore hunters too.