D&D Solo Self-Found (SSF) Rules Checklist

SSF is Dark and Darker's most beloved seasonal mode — active for the first 3 weeks of each season. Use this checklist to confirm you're following all restrictions, and check the FAQ for common edge cases.

SSF Window (S9)

Apr 28 – May 19

Season 9, 2026

Current Status

Ended

Ended May 19, 2026

After SSF

Trading Unlocks

May 19, 2026 onward

Am I Following SSF Rules?

Check each restriction you are complying with. All must be checked to be SSF-compliant.

  • I am not trading items with other players.

    Player-to-player item transfer is completely disabled during SSF.

  • I am not using the Marketplace / Trades Guild.

    The auction and trade post are locked for SSF characters.

  • All my equipped gear came from dungeon runs.

    Gear must be looted from chests, mobs, or extracted from players you killed in-dungeon.

  • I have not received items from other players.

    No gift trades, no drop-and-pick-up from teammates.

  • I understand party items are still SSF if I found them.

    You can party with others — only items you personally extract count as SSF-tagged for your character.

Check each rule you are following above.

SSF FAQ

Can I trade my SSF character after SSF ends?

Yes — SSF restrictions lift automatically when the window ends (May 19, S9). Your character and items carry over with no permanent restrictions.

Can I access the Trades Guild during SSF?

No — the Trades Guild (auction/marketplace) is locked while SSF is active for your character.

Does party play invalidate SSF?

No — you can still party. Items you personally loot and extract remain SSF-tagged for you; items teammates find are theirs.

Can I use gold found in the dungeon?

Yes — gold you loot counts as self-found. You can spend it in merchant shops within the dungeon/lobby if applicable.

What happens if I pick up an item a teammate dropped?

Picking up items another player dropped violates SSF — this counts as receiving an item from another player.

Can I still do High Roller during SSF?

Yes — High Roller is available during SSF, but trading restrictions still apply.

SSF Progression Tips

  • → Prioritize extracting early over high-risk fights — inventory full of uncommons beats dying with one rare.
  • → Focus on looting Goblin Caves and Ice Caverns first — high chest density relative to danger.
  • → Build toward a consistent class kit early: one weapon, one armor set, utility potions.
  • → Use the first week to gear a second character as a backup — SSF runs are high-variance.
  • → Save your best gear extracts for mid-week runs, not Friday evenings when lobbies fill with PvP squads.
  • → Blue gear (Rare) is your SSF milestone — prioritize chest routes in dungeon rooms, not corridor fights.
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