Notes from author
This is my response to people complaining about the overuse of Dark Sorcery in the arena.
Sorcerers tend to rely on the Bellowing Dragoncrest Ring, which means that they're very restricted in their ring choices, and overall not too effective in combat where they can't use their spells.
Great Magic Barrier reduces the magic damage you take by 85 - 95% (depending on the spell) rendering the Dark Sorcery uselessâ€â€unless you fight someone with the Manus Catalyst, in which case you'll have to watch out for the physical damage.
Great Magic Barrier lasts for 40 seconds, so you have plenty of time to go all-out on the mage in question.
Great Heal (three uses) will heal 1,376 HP basically putting you at full health, and is meant to be used in-between victories.
The Darkmoon Blade last for 60 seconds, making it extremely effective in the arena. However I would recommend that you stock-up on some Gold Resin just in case. Other utility items would be: Green Blossoms, Black Firebombs, and Poison Daggers.
The 53 poise is to take a one-handed Moonlight Greatsword hit without staggering, and the Dark Wood Grain Ring is to be able to effectively dodge spells in case the Great Magic Barrier wears off.
The Balder Side Sword is the obvious choice, being the best weapon in the game. Low weight, low requirements, and a quick- and versatile moveset.
Furthermore it's only 31 points of attack rating short of the Uchigatana's (at 14 strength and 40 dexterity). Which for 4 points in strength and 8 points in Endurance isn't worth it. On top of that the Uchigata's moveset is horrible in contrast.
Other than that, this build is pretty effective all-around, and can counter most builds.
