Bloodborne is a masterpiece of dark, gothic action RPG design. With its relentless combat, mysterious lore, and eerie atmosphere, the game offers an unforgettable experience. However, its punishing difficulty and cryptic mechanics can be overwhelming for new players. If you're setting out on your first journey through Yharnam, fear not! This guide will provide essential tips to help you survive and thrive in this nightmarish world.
1. Understand the Basics of Combat
Unlike the defensive playstyle of FromSoftware’s Dark Souls, Bloodborne rewards aggressive combat. Here are the core principles to keep in mind:
Dodge, Don’t Block
There are no traditional shields in Bloodborne (aside from the nearly useless wooden shield). Instead, you’ll rely on your quickstep and roll to avoid attacks. Practice dodging through enemy attacks rather than away from them—this keeps you in range to counterattack.
Use the Regain System
Bloodborne’s regain mechanic allows you to recover lost health by striking enemies immediately after taking damage. This encourages you to stay on the offensive rather than retreating to heal.
Tip: Don’t panic if you get hit—strike back quickly to regain your health.
2. Choose Your Starting Weapon Wisely
At the beginning of the game, you’ll choose one of three trick weapons:
- Saw Cleaver: A versatile weapon with balanced speed and power, ideal for beginners.
- Hunter Axe: Slower but more powerful, with excellent crowd control when transformed.
- Threaded Cane: A fast, stylish weapon with longer reach in its whip form, but lower damage output.
Recommendation: The Saw Cleaver is a great starting choice for most players, as it handles well in a variety of situations.
3. Master the Firearm Parry
Your off-hand firearm isn’t just for dealing damage—it’s a critical tool for staggering enemies. Timing your shot just as an enemy attacks will put them into a visceral state, allowing you to perform a devastating visceral attack.
How to Parry:
- Wait for an enemy to begin their attack animation.
- Fire your gun at the peak of their motion (just before their attack lands).
- Approach the staggered enemy and press R1 to execute the visceral attack.
Tip: Practice on the slow-moving enemies in Central Yharnam to perfect your timing.
4. Learn to Read Enemy Patterns
Every enemy in Bloodborne has unique attack patterns. Success comes from observing and learning their movements, so you can anticipate and counter their attacks.
Tips for Studying Enemies:
- Watch how long their attack animations are—some enemies have deceptive delays before striking.
- Circle strafe around enemies to find openings, especially for larger foes.
- Use your firearm or quickstep to interrupt combos.
5. Explore Thoroughly
Yharnam is filled with secrets, shortcuts, and valuable items. Taking the time to explore every corner of the world can make a huge difference in your survival.
Key Things to Look For:
- Shortcuts: Many levels have gates, elevators, or ladders that provide quick access back to earlier areas.
- Lanterns: These act as checkpoints where you can respawn and travel back to the Hunter’s Dream.
- Hidden Items: Look for glowing objects, breakable crates, and suspicious dead ends.
6. Spend Blood Echoes Wisely
Blood Echoes are the currency of Bloodborne, used to level up, buy items, and repair your equipment. Since dying causes you to drop your echoes, it’s important to spend them frequently.
Early Game Priorities:
- Level Up Vitality: Extra health gives you more room for error.
- Upgrade Your Weapon: Visit the Workshop in the Hunter’s Dream to strengthen your weapon with Blood Stones.
- Stock Up on Supplies: Keep a healthy supply of Blood Vials and Quicksilver Bullets for healing and parrying.
Tip: Don’t hoard Blood Echoes—spend them before tackling difficult areas or bosses.
7. Don’t Underestimate the Torch
The torch may seem like a minor tool, but it can be invaluable. Not only does it illuminate dark areas, but it can also intimidate certain beastly enemies, making them hesitate or back away. Equip it in your off-hand when exploring unlit regions.
8. Learn to Manage Your Stamina
Stamina governs your ability to attack, dodge, and run. Managing it carefully is essential for survival:
- Don’t spam attacks—leave enough stamina to dodge away from danger.
- Avoid emptying your stamina bar, as this leaves you vulnerable.
Tip: When fighting bosses, attack in bursts and step back to recover stamina before re-engaging.
9. Understand the Hub World: The Hunter’s Dream
The Hunter’s Dream is your sanctuary in Bloodborne. It’s where you’ll level up, upgrade weapons, and prepare for the challenges ahead.
Important Features:
- The Doll: Speak to the Doll to level up your stats once you acquire your first Insight.
- Workshop: Upgrade and repair weapons here using Blood Stones.
- Bath Messengers: Purchase items and gear using Blood Echoes.
10. Insight: A Unique Resource
Insight is a secondary currency that governs your ability to perceive the world’s horrors. It’s gained by encountering bosses, discovering new areas, or using Madman’s Knowledge.
Insight Effects:
- Unlocks new NPCs and services in the Hunter’s Dream.
- Changes the world: At higher Insight levels, enemies may gain new abilities, and you’ll begin to see previously invisible entities.
Tip: If the game feels too challenging, spend Insight at the Insight Bath to lower your level and reduce difficulty.
11. Prepare for Boss Battles
Bosses are the ultimate test of your skill, and they demand preparation. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:
- Study the Arena: Many boss arenas have obstacles or openings you can use to your advantage.
- Bring Supplies: Stock up on Blood Vials, Quicksilver Bullets, and fire-based items like Molotov Cocktails for beast-type bosses.
- Learn Their Patterns: Most bosses have multiple phases. Focus on surviving the first phase while learning their attacks.
Tip: Use the environment—some bosses can be staggered or trapped using specific tactics.
12. Co-op and Summoning Help
If a boss or area feels insurmountable, you can summon other players for assistance by using a Beckoning Bell. Alternatively, ring the Small Resonant Bell to join another player’s game and practice.
Tip: Make sure you have Insight to use summoning mechanics—each summon costs 1 Insight.
13. Patience is Key
Bloodborne is designed to challenge and reward perseverance. It’s normal to die repeatedly as you learn the intricacies of the game.
Tips for Staying Calm:
- Treat each death as a learning experience.
- Take breaks if frustration builds.
- Experiment with different weapons and playstyles to find what suits you.
Conclusion
Bloodborne is a brutal yet deeply rewarding experience for those willing to embrace its challenges. By mastering its combat, exploring thoroughly, and preparing for battles, you’ll not only survive Yharnam but uncover the rich secrets hidden within its dark streets. Stay aggressive, stay curious, and remember—every death brings you closer to mastery. Good hunting!
