You don't need Remembrance weapons or unique drops to be strong. Standard weapons with the right affinity and upgrade path can match or exceed legendary weapons.
Recommended Builds
#1: Dual Katana
Two regular Uchigatanas with Blood affinity outperform many unique weapons.
Why it works: Uchigatana is available from the start (Samurai class) and a second from Deathtouched Catacombs. Blood affinity makes them devastating. Regular Smithing Stones upgrade path to +25.
#2: Greatsword
A basic Greatsword with Heavy affinity and Lion's Claw matches legendary colossal weapons.
Why it works: The Greatsword is technically a regular weapon despite its power. Heavy +25 with Lion's Claw Ash of War makes it competitive with any legendary weapon.
#3: Nagakiba Samurai
Nagakiba with Blood affinity provides S-tier katana gameplay without unique weapon limitations.
Why it works: Nagakiba accepts Ashes of War and standard infusions, giving you more flexibility than unique weapons. Blood affinity + Seppuku makes it arguably better than Rivers of Blood for sustained DPS.