Royal Swordsman

Royal Swordsmen are enemies in Dark Souls II.

Description
These warriors formerly served in Vendrick's army during the war against the Giants, however very few survived the battles and the remainder succumbed to the undead curse. Despite turning hollow, they continue to defend their King's domain.

Royal Swordsmen are encountered in The Lost Bastille and Drangleic Castle. They are often found in teams of around 3-4 soldiers and they will work together to overwhelm the player. They wield greatswords and crossbows.

Strategy
Royal Swordsmen are weak individually but they work in teams and can easily overwhelm the player if they trap them in a corner. Greatsword wielding soldiers will attempt to rush the player whilst their comrades armed with crossbows will open fire from a distance.

These enemies have low poise and are easily staggered. It is advisable to use ranged attacks to thin their numbers when they assault the player in a group.