Dark Souls III (2016) — Story, World Setting & Character Breakdown
Developer: FromSoftware • Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment • Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
World Setting & Story Premise
The convergent kingdom of Lothric, where ancient lands of previous flame-linkers physically warp and crush together at the dying end of the Age of Fire.
When the First Flame begins to fade completely, the bell tolls to awaken past Lords of Cinder (Abyss Watchers, Yhorm the Giant, Aldrich). All abandon their duty. In desperation, the Unkindled—ashes unfit even to become cinder—are raised from graves to hunt the Lords and force their cinders back onto firelink thrones.
Key Characters & Narrative Roles
The Ashen One — Protagonist
Affiliation: Unkindled Ash • Relationship:
Nameless warrior seeking to gather the cinders of five reluctant lords.
Soul of Cinder — Final Boss / Manifestation
Affiliation: Deification of the First Flame • Relationship:
The composite amalgamation of all previous Lords of Cinder (including Gwyn) defending the dying flame at the Kiln.
Prince Lothric & Prince Lorian — Key Antagonists / Lords of Cinder
Affiliation: Royal House of Lothric • Relationship:
Prince Lothric refuses to sacrifice his cursed soul to sustain Gwyn’s prolonging of fire, choosing to let the world fade into dark.