Valor Mortis opens up slightly after defeating the first proper boss. The game seems less linear, as you can access Fortress and Fallen Village, but it’s not as it seems. You’re here because you’re having trouble progressing in Fortress, and this guide explains why.
If you’re looking for an open and free souls game, then Valor Mortis…isn’t it. This is generally a very linear souls game, and that’s fine. You move forward, and you don’t have the headache of having a million ways to go. But Valor Mortis will occasionally leave progression up in the air, and Fortress is one of the game’s bigger mysteries.
Also, check out our Valor Mortis review!
Why Can’t I Enter Fortress in Valor Mortis?
You can’t get into the Fortress location until much further into Valor Mortis because you need a specific ability to enter.
One thing that wasn’t talked much about in the build-up to the game’s launch was its use of Metroidvania mechanics, locking certain areas and locations behind items you don’t obtain until you’re deeper into the heart of the game.
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If you went to Fortress straight after unlocking the Abandoned Church Lantern, you’re pointed in the direction of the Fallen Village. Conversely, you don’t technically need to go there, as Fortress is accessible via the other path.
Fortress has a wall around the side with a collectible or two for you to find, but inside the main wall is an elite enemy who will make easy work of you. The reason being, you’re not supposed to be strong enough to kill him yet; you don’t have enough health or heals to stand your ground, and even if you somehow beat him, you can’t cross the bridge anyway.
How Do I Get Into Fortress in Valor Mortis?
You unlock the Shield Transmutation about three-quarters of the way through Valor Mortis, which enables you to cross the poisoned bridge to properly access Fortress.
As I’ve covered extensively in my detailed Valor Mortis poison guide breakdown, the Shield Transmutation is the only way to overcome poison. You’re allowed a handful of seconds in the toxic poison gas before William is struck with immediate death.
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You don’t get the Shield Transmutation until you’ve made significant progress. To keep this short and sweet, simply forget about Fortress until you get the Shield Transmutation, and know that Fortress is a joyful hotspot of elite enemies, death, and one of the game’s sternest challenges from start to finish.
Did Fortress flummox you as well? Let us know on the Insider Gaming Discord server.
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Andy is Insider Gaming's Senior Evergreen Editor and has been in the games journalism sphere in one way or another for over 7 years. His video game taste is as…
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