Bushra Griffith
In the world of *Elden Ring*, mastering the Bloodhound's Step skill can be a game-changer for players seeking to dodge attacks with precision and style. However, some players have discovered unconventional methods, often referred to as cheesing, to exploit this skill for maximum efficiency. Cheesing Bloodhound's Step involves combining it with specific builds, weapons, or tactics to create overpowered or unexpected strategies that can outmaneuver even the toughest enemies. Whether it's pairing it with high agility, using it in tandem with certain incantations or sorceries, or timing it perfectly to negate boss attacks, understanding how to cheese Bloodhound's Step can significantly enhance your survivability and dominance in combat. This approach, while sometimes controversial, highlights the creativity and depth of *Elden Ring*'s gameplay mechanics.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Move Name | Bloodhound Step |
| Game | Elden Ring |
| Type | Ash of War Skill |
| Cheese Strategy | Exploiting i-frames and positioning |
| Key Mechanics | Dash through enemy attacks with invincibility frames |
| Effective Against | Bosses with predictable attack patterns (e.g., Malenia, Godfrey) |
| Required Weapon | Rivers of Blood (katana) or any weapon with Bloodhound Step Ash of War |
| FP Cost | 24 FP per use |
| I-Frame Duration | ~12 frames (slightly less than a roll) |
| Distance Covered | Medium (shorter than a roll but faster) |
| Best Use Case | Punishing slow, heavy attacks or closing distance quickly |
| Counterplay | Fast, unpredictable attacks or grabbing |
| Patch Status | As of latest patch, still viable but requires precise timing |
| Difficulty | High (requires practice and timing) |
| Risk/Reward | High risk, high reward (can trivialize fights if mastered) |
| Community Rating | Considered a "cheese" tactic due to its effectiveness and low skill floor |
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What You'll Learn
- Timing the Roll: Master the precise timing to dodge attacks and punish enemies effectively
- Poise Management: Optimize poise to ensure Bloodhound Step remains active during trades
- Weapon Synergies: Pair with fast weapons for seamless combos and maximum damage output
- Distance Control: Use the step to close gaps or create space strategically in combat
- Counterplay Awareness: Anticipate enemy reactions to avoid predictable punishes and maintain dominance
Timing the Roll: Master the precise timing to dodge attacks and punish enemies effectively
In the high-stakes dance of combat, the Bloodhound Step is your graceful pirouette—a move that, when timed perfectly, turns you into an untouchable specter. The key to cheesing this ability lies in understanding its rhythm, not just its mechanics. Unlike a simple dodge, the Bloodhound Step is a calculated repositioning that grants invincibility frames during the roll. To cheese it effectively, you must exploit these frames by synchronizing your input with the enemy’s attack animation. Observe the wind-up—that telltale pause before the strike—and time your roll to activate just as the attack begins. This precision turns evasion into offense, leaving you behind the enemy, primed to counter-attack while they’re still recovering.
Consider the Giant Rats in the Murkwater Cave. Their lunging attack has a distinct, slow wind-up. By rolling precisely as their front legs leave the ground, you’ll not only dodge the strike but also reposition to their flank, where a critical hit deals maximum damage. This isn’t just about survival; it’s about turning every enemy attack into an opportunity. Practice this timing in low-stakes encounters to internalize the rhythm, then apply it to more formidable foes like the Godrick Soldiers, whose sweeping strikes offer a wider window for execution.
However, timing the roll isn’t foolproof. Overcommitment is a common pitfall. The Bloodhound Step’s invincibility frames are finite, and mistiming by even a fraction of a second leaves you vulnerable mid-roll. To mitigate this, pair the ability with a medium-range weapon like the Uchigatana, which allows you to strike quickly after repositioning. Additionally, avoid using the ability against enemies with rapid, unpredictable attacks, such as the Grave Warden’s dual-scythe combo. Here, traditional dodging or blocking is safer.
The true art of cheesing the Bloodhound Step lies in adaptability. Against bosses like Margit, the Fell Omen, study his attack patterns during Phase 1. His vertical slash has a long wind-up, making it ideal for a well-timed roll. Position yourself slightly to his side, roll as his sword begins its descent, and you’ll emerge behind him, ready to unleash a fully charged heavy attack. Repeat this process, and even his most punishing combos become predictable—and punishable.
Mastering this timing transforms the Bloodhound Step from a reactive tool into a proactive weapon. It’s not just about dodging; it’s about dictating the flow of combat. With practice, you’ll recognize the subtle cues in every enemy’s attack, turning their aggression into your advantage. Remember: precision is power, and in the world of cheesing, timing isn’t everything—it’s the only thing.
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Poise Management: Optimize poise to ensure Bloodhound Step remains active during trades
In the high-stakes world of Elden Ring PvP, maintaining Bloodhound’s Step during trades can be the difference between a clutch victory and a humiliating defeat. Poise management is the linchpin here—it’s not just about having high poise but *optimizing* it to ensure your Bloodhound’s Step remains active when it matters most. The key lies in understanding the poise-break threshold of your build and the weapons you’re likely to face. For example, a quality build with 40-50 poise (achieved through the Bull-Goat’s Talisman and the Great Jar’s Arsenal talisman) can withstand a single heavy hit from a colossal sword, allowing Bloodhound’s Step to remain active for a follow-up attack.
To maximize poise efficiency, prioritize equipment that offers the highest poise-to-weight ratio. The Bull-Goat’s Greaves and the Veteran’s Prosthesis are standout choices, providing 14.4 and 12.0 poise respectively while keeping weight manageable. Pair these with the Heavy-Hitting Ash of War waifu—sorry, whetblade, to ensure your attacks stagger opponents before they can break your poise. Avoid over-investing in poise beyond 60-65, as diminishing returns set in, and the additional endurance could be better spent on vigor or mind for survivability.
A common mistake is neglecting to account for hyper-armor frames. Bloodhound’s Step grants hyper-armor during its animation, but only if your poise isn’t broken mid-step. To cheese this mechanic, time your Bloodhound’s Step immediately after an opponent’s attack lands—the brief hyper-armor window will absorb the hit, allowing you to trade favorably. Practice this in the Liurnia Lake Shore area against the dual-wielding knights; their predictable combos are perfect for honing your timing.
Finally, consider the meta. In a landscape dominated by Rivers of Blood and Moonveil spammers, poise management becomes a psychological tool. Opponents conditioned to expect poise breaks will often panic-roll after a failed trade, giving you a free punish. Equip the Fingerprint Stone Shield to taunt your opponent into overcommitting, then capitalize with a well-timed Bloodhound’s Step. Remember: poise isn’t just a stat—it’s a mind game. Master it, and you’ll cheese your way to the top of the colosseum.
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Weapon Synergies: Pair with fast weapons for seamless combos and maximum damage output
The Bloodhound Step's true potential is unlocked when paired with weapons that complement its speed and agility. Fast weapons, particularly those with rapid strike capabilities, synergize beautifully with this Ash of War, creating a whirlwind of attacks that leave enemies reeling. Imagine a ballet of steel, where each step triggers a flurry of strikes, blurring the line between movement and offense. This isn't just about dealing damage; it's about creating an unstoppable rhythm that disrupts your opponent's defenses.
Consider the Rivers of Blood katana. Its inherent bleed buildup and swift slashes make it a prime candidate for Bloodhound Step cheese. Each step triggers a rapid two-hit combo, maximizing bleed procs and staggering foes before they can react. Similarly, the Cleanrot Knives, with their innate scarlet rot application, become even more devastating when paired with the Ash's agility. The rapid movement allows you to close distances and unleash a torrent of rot-infused strikes, melting through even the toughest armor.
For a more unconventional approach, experiment with thrusting swords like the Estoc or the Rapier. While not traditionally "fast" weapons, their long reach and piercing damage combine surprisingly well with Bloodhound Step's evasive nature. Dodge through attacks, close the gap with a step, and deliver a precise, high-damage thrust before retreating to safety. This tactic requires more precision but rewards skilled players with a unique and effective playstyle.
Remember, weapon choice is crucial for maximizing Bloodhound Step's cheese potential. Prioritize weapons with high attack speed, innate status effects, or unique damage types that complement the Ash's mobility. Experiment with different combinations, discover synergies that suit your playstyle, and unleash the full fury of this powerful Ash of War.
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Distance Control: Use the step to close gaps or create space strategically in combat
The Bloodhound Step is a powerful tool in combat, but its true potential lies in mastering distance control. By understanding the step's mechanics and timing, you can manipulate the battlefield to your advantage, closing gaps to punish opponents or creating space to reposition and regain stamina.
Here's a breakdown of how to cheese Bloodhound Step for optimal distance control:
Example: Imagine a scenario where you're facing a heavy-hitting opponent who relies on close-quarters combat. They're predictably aggressive, constantly rushing towards you. Instead of engaging directly, you utilize Bloodhound Step to dash just out of their reach, forcing them to overextend. As they stumble forward, you counter with a well-timed attack, capitalizing on their momentum.
Analysis: This example highlights the step's ability to disrupt an opponent's rhythm. By strategically creating distance, you force them to adjust their approach, potentially leaving them vulnerable. The key lies in anticipating their movements and timing your steps to maximize the distance gap.
Takeaway: Bloodhound Step isn't just about flashy dodges; it's about dictating the flow of combat. Use it to control the distance, forcing opponents into unfavorable positions and creating opportunities for decisive strikes.
Steps to Master Distance Control:
- Observe and Predict: Pay close attention to your opponent's attack patterns and movement tendencies. Identify their preferred range and anticipate their next move.
- Timing is Crucial: Don't spam Bloodhound Step. Time your dashes to coincide with your opponent's attacks, creating maximum distance and potentially leaving them open.
- Mix it Up: Don't become predictable. Alternate between closing the gap for aggressive plays and creating space for defensive maneuvers. Keep your opponent guessing.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Experiment with different timings and distances in training mode. Hone your reflexes and develop a feel for the optimal step range against various opponents.
Cautions:
- Stamina Management: Bloodhound Step consumes stamina. Be mindful of your stamina bar and avoid overusing the step, leaving yourself vulnerable to counterattacks.
- Environmental Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings. Dashing into walls or off ledges can be disastrous. Use the environment to your advantage, but don't let it become a liability.
Mastering distance control with Bloodhound Step elevates your combat prowess. By strategically closing gaps and creating space, you gain a significant advantage over opponents, dictating the flow of battle and increasing your chances of victory. Remember, it's not just about the step itself, but about using it intelligently to manipulate the battlefield and outmaneuver your foes.
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Counterplay Awareness: Anticipate enemy reactions to avoid predictable punishes and maintain dominance
In the high-stakes dance of Elden Ring’s PvP, the Bloodhound’s Step is a fleeting shadow, a momentary invincibility frame that players exploit to dodge attacks and punish overextension. Yet its predictability is its Achilles’ heel. Opponents quickly learn to bait the ash, forcing users into vulnerable recovery animations. Counterplay awareness isn’t just about reacting—it’s about manipulating the enemy’s expectations. For instance, instead of using Bloodhound’s Step immediately after a roll, delay it by a split second. This micro-pause disrupts the opponent’s timing, making their punish attempt whiff, leaving them open to your counter.
Consider the psychological game at play. Players conditioned to exploit Bloodhound’s Step often commit to heavy, punishable attacks when they anticipate its use. By feigning vulnerability—such as rolling directly toward an opponent—you can bait out these attacks. Then, instead of stepping, backstep or use a quick weapon art to capitalize on their aggression. This tactic hinges on understanding the enemy’s read on your habits. If you’ve been stepping predictably, they’ll expect it; if you mix in delays or feints, their reactions become exploitable.
A practical drill to enhance counterplay awareness is to record or analyze PvP matches where Bloodhound’s Step failed. Identify patterns: Did you step after every roll? Did you use it only during enemy combos? Once these tendencies are clear, consciously vary your usage. For example, step during your own offensive pressure instead of defensively. Pair it with a light attack or a sprint to close distance, forcing the opponent to react to your aggression rather than baiting your step. This shifts the dominance from them to you.
Finally, leverage environment and spacing to amplify counterplay. In tight areas, opponents may hesitate to commit to punishes for fear of getting clipped by terrain. Use this to your advantage by stepping into walls or corners, where their attacks are more likely to miss. Conversely, in open spaces, combine Bloodhound’s Step with lateral movement to create unpredictable angles. The goal is to make your step a tool of chaos, not a telegraphed escape. Master this, and you’ll turn the cheese into a weapon of control.
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Frequently asked questions
The Bloodhound Step is an Ash of War skill in Elden Ring that allows the user to dodge through enemies while leaving a decoy behind. It’s considered powerful because it provides invincibility frames, covers a large distance, and can bypass enemy attacks, making it effective for both evasion and aggressive playstyles.
To cheese Bloodhound Step in PvE, use it to dodge through enemies and position yourself behind them for backstabs or critical hits. Pair it with a fast weapon and high poise to maintain aggression, or use it to escape dangerous situations and reposition safely.
In PvP, cheese Bloodhound Step by using it unpredictably to close gaps or escape. Combine it with a weapon art or spell to catch opponents off guard. However, be cautious of its long recovery time, as skilled players can punish you if mistimed.
Yes, Bloodhound Step synergizes well with fast, high-damage weapons like katanas or curved swords for quick follow-up attacks. Pair it with a bleed or frost build to maximize damage output. Additionally, using a medium or light load for increased mobility enhances its effectiveness.
