During an interview with Hidetaka Miyazaki, the creator of Elden Ring, on the Japanese podcast Game No Shokutaku, an unusual game mechanic from the original Dark Souls was discussed, providing players with a whole new perspective.
The mechanic in question is the infamous dung pie item that would be available within the first Dark Souls game, which had a rather unique set of mechanics that many players would understandably take advantage of. Now it has been explained by Hidetaka Miyazaki, and it makes sense while also not making sense.
Dung Pies Were a Very Unique Item, According to Elden Ring Creator Hidetaka Miyazaki
If you aren’t aware, dung pies are a specific item within Dark Souls that have two functions, whether you are looking to use them against your enemies or even yourself. Once this item is used, it can provide a poison debuff to either yourself or your enemy, slowly dealing damage over time.
However, there was one unique mechanic that triggered once this item was used on the player character themselves. According to Hidetaka Miyazaki, “The Dung Pie is toxic so if you intoxicate yourself, you’re safe from the blow darters as toxic does not stack.” which allowed players to explore some of the worst locations in the game with no fear.
This led many gamers to wonder whether or not this was a deliberate mechanic included within the game or a happy accident. Luckily for us, Hidetaka Miyazaki answered that question during the interview by saying, “No, it’s not, in fact. We found that loophole with the toxic damages, but we just left it in, for a more in-depth gameplay.” proving that when a developer finds something unique, they run with it.
Players Are Still Wondering Where Dung Pies Come from and Why They Are Such an Effective Strategy for Blight Town
Dung pies have always been a gross mystery in Dark Souls, as many players have always known where they come from, but they choose to ignore it as it is very disgusting to think about, especially after you use the item to throw it at your enemies.
But the horrifying idea of where a dung pie comes from isn’t as important as why players use it. As the dung pie may come from the “droppings” of a specific enemy in Blight Town, it can be used to navigate the dreadful location at an easier pace.
Upon using the dung pie, players will begin to gain a poison debuff, which is also applied by the blow darts that are used in the same location. Luckily for players, according to Hidetaka Miyazaki, “The toxic status taken from the pie is a lot weaker than the toxic from the darts. They have a different damage output.” proving it is smarter to hurt yourself than allow your enemies to do it for you.
What do you think about the dung pie and its many gruesome uses within Dark Souls? Did you know you can use an enemy’s “droppings” to make your own life easier in Dark Souls? Let us know in the comments what you think!
