Region Overview
Pharloom Bay is a coastal region at the southeastern edge of Pharloom, where saltwater meets ancient stone. This is where the "salt-stricken waters" mentioned by Alchemist Zylotol lie - the very waters where Plasmium was first discovered.
The area was originally shown in Silksong's 2019 reveal trailer featuring gorgeous blue waters, barnacle-covered structures, and a quaint village populated by shell-wearing NPCs. Cut during development (around 2021-2022), it finally returns in the Sea of Sorrow expansion.
Quick Facts
- Location: Southeast of Bilewater, above Verdania
- Map Color: Bright blue (indicating water)
- Environment: Saltwater shores, hot springs, coral caves
- Difficulty: Late-game recommended
- Total Rosaries: 8 (including 2 hidden)
How to Reach Pharloom Bay
Getting to Pharloom Bay requires you to have progressed past the Bilewater area in the main game. Here's how to find the entrance:
Step-by-Step Route
- Travel to the southeastern section of Bilewater
- Look for a flooded passage near the border with Verdania
- You'll need the Diving Bell Tool (obtained earlier in the DLC) to proceed
- Take the submersible through the underwater tunnel
- Emerge in the Salt Grotto, the first sub-area of Pharloom Bay
Pro Tip: Make sure to stock up on healing items before entering. The first few rooms can be challenging if you're not prepared for aquatic enemies.
Snail Village
The heart of Pharloom Bay is the Snail Village - a peaceful settlement populated by ammonite-like NPCs wearing distinctive spiral shells. This serves as the main hub for the DLC area.
Village Features
- Bench: Central resting point with map updates
- Shell Merchant: Sells unique DLC items and consumables
- Lore Scholar: Provides backstory on Pharloom Bay's history
- Quest Board: Optional side quests for the region
- Bellway Station: Fast travel connection to the main network
Notable NPCs
The Shellkeeper
Village elder who knows the true history of Plasmium. Complete their quest chain to unlock the secret ending path.
Tidecaller Mara
Merchant specializing in underwater equipment. Sells the Coral Charm and Salt Crystal upgrades.
The Drifter
Mysterious figure who appears after defeating the first boss. Offers hints about hidden areas.
Sub-Areas
Pharloom Bay is divided into several interconnected zones, each with unique challenges and aesthetics:
Salt Grotto
Entry area with salt crystal formations. Contains the first bench and connects to Bilewater.
Tidal Caves
Underwater sections with air pockets. Water level changes based on a hidden mechanism.
Thermal Springs
Hot spring area with healing properties. Home to unique enemy types and a mini-boss.
The Anchorage
Ruined harbor with iron architecture. Contains clues about Pharloom's maritime past.
Plasmium Depths
Deep underwater lab where Plasmium was first extracted. Final area with the main boss.
Crystal Reef
Optional area filled with rare collectibles. Requires a special key from the Shellkeeper.
Enemies & Bosses
Common Enemies
The bay is home to sea-themed creatures, many redesigned from early trailer concepts:
- Cragglites: Crustacean enemies with hard shells. Weak point is their underbelly.
- Barnacle Crawlers: Stick to walls and ceilings, drop down when you pass.
- Salt Jellies: Floating enemies that explode on contact.
- Kelp Stalkers: Camouflage in seaweed, ambush with quick strikes.
- Coral Sentries: Stationary turret-type enemies that shoot spines.
Boss Encounters
The Tidewarden
Main boss of Pharloom Bay. A massive crustacean guardian corrupted by concentrated Plasmium.
Location: Plasmium Depths
Shell Specter (Mini-boss)
Ghostly remains of an ancient shell-dweller. Uses water-based attacks and can phase through walls.
Location: Thermal Springs
Collectibles
Pharloom Bay contains several unique collectibles exclusive to the DLC:
Collectible Checklist
- Rosaries: 8 total (6 visible, 2 hidden)
- Shell Fragments: 15 total (trade with Tidecaller Mara)
- Lore Tablets: 5 total (reveal Plasmium backstory)
- New Tool: Diving Bell (required for progression)
- New Crest: Tidal Crest (boosts underwater abilities)
Lore & Secrets
Pharloom Bay holds crucial lore about the origins of Plasmium and Pharloom's maritime history. Here's what we learn:
The Plasmium Origin
Lore tablets reveal that Plasmium was first discovered in the deep waters of Pharloom Bay by Zylotol's master. The substance rises from thermal vents in the ocean floor, possibly connected to something ancient sleeping in the depths...
Secret Areas
- Hidden Shrine: Behind a breakable wall in the Tidal Caves. Contains a unique Charm.
- Sunken Ship: Accessible via a secret passage in The Anchorage. Contains Shell Fragments.
- The Abyss Gate: Mysterious locked door that may connect to future content...
Exploration Tips
Pro Tips
- Equip the Tidal Crest early - it significantly improves underwater mobility
- Watch for bubble streams - they indicate air pockets in underwater sections
- Return to the Thermal Springs after boss fights for free healing
- Talk to the Shellkeeper multiple times - dialogue changes as you progress
- Use the Plasmium Phial in the Depths - it has enhanced effects here
Heads Up: The Tidewarden boss has a second phase that only triggers if you've collected all 5 Lore Tablets. This unlocks additional lore and a secret achievement.
Wrapping Up
Pharloom Bay is a beautiful addition to Silksong that finally delivers on content glimpsed years ago in the reveal trailer. Between the charming Snail Village, challenging underwater sections, and crucial Plasmium lore, this DLC region is essential for any completionist.
Take your time exploring - there are plenty of hidden details that lore enthusiasts will appreciate. And don't forget to complete the Shellkeeper's quest chain for the full experience.
The salt-stricken waters hold many secrets. Dive deep and discover them all!