Mastering Ludwig: Clever Strategies To Cheese Your Way To Victory

how to cheese ludwig

Cheesing Ludwig, a term often used in gaming to describe exploiting mechanics or strategies to easily defeat a challenging boss, requires a deep understanding of the game's systems and creative problem-solving. In the context of Ludwig, the Holy Blade from *Bloodborne*, players often seek unconventional methods to bypass his formidable attacks and phases. Common strategies include using specific tools like the Tiny Music Box to stun him, exploiting environmental elements, or employing particular builds that maximize damage output while minimizing risk. While these methods may not align with the intended gameplay experience, they highlight the ingenuity of players in overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Characteristics Values
Boss Ludwig, the Holy Blade
Game Bloodborne
Cheese Strategy Using the environment and specific tactics to minimize direct combat
Recommended Level 40-50
Suggested Weapons Any ranged weapon (e.g., Repeating Pistol, Cannon), or fast, high-damage melee weapons
Key Tactic Luring Ludwig into the stairs to get him stuck, allowing for safe attacks
Phase 1 Weakness Thrust damage, visceral attacks when staggered
Phase 2 Weakness Same as Phase 1, but more aggressive tactics needed
Recommended Runes Bloodtinge (for ranged weapons), Arcane (for specific builds)
Recommended Consumables Blood Vials, Quicksilver Bullets, Poison Knives (optional)
Difficulty High, requires precise timing and positioning
Risk High, as Ludwig can break out of the cheese tactic if not executed perfectly
Reward Ludwig's Holy Blade, 60,000 Blood Echoes, and progression in the game
Notes This strategy is considered less honorable but effective for struggling players

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Exploit Ludwig's slow start: Focus on aggressive early game strategies to gain an advantage before Ludwig adapts

Ludwig's initial sluggishness presents a golden opportunity for players to seize control and dictate the match's tempo. This vulnerability, akin to a dormant volcano, can be exploited through a calculated, aggressive approach during the game's opening stages. By capitalizing on this window, players can amass resources, establish territorial dominance, and create a formidable lead before Ludwig's adaptive mechanisms kick in.

To execute this strategy effectively, prioritize high-risk, high-reward tactics that yield substantial returns within the first 5-7 minutes of gameplay. For instance, in a real-time strategy game, this could involve an early rush with 3-4 units, targeting Ludwig's resource-gathering structures or key defensive positions. In a fighting game context, it might mean employing a mix of high-damage combos and mix-ups to chip away at Ludwig's health bar, aiming for a 20-30% lead before the 2-minute mark. The key is to strike a balance between aggression and sustainability, ensuring that your early game investments don't leave you vulnerable to counterattacks.

Consider the following step-by-step approach: 1) Identify Ludwig's weakest links during the initial phase, such as limited mobility or reduced defensive capabilities; 2) Allocate 60-70% of your initial resources towards offensive units or abilities; 3) Execute a series of coordinated attacks, focusing on high-value targets like resource nodes or strategic chokepoints; 4) Maintain constant pressure, adapting your tactics based on Ludwig's responses, but without overextending. By following this framework, you can create a substantial advantage, forcing Ludwig to play catch-up for the remainder of the match.

However, beware of the pitfalls associated with an overly aggressive strategy. Overextending your forces or neglecting defensive upgrades can leave you susceptible to Ludwig's counterattacks once it adapts. To mitigate this risk, allocate 20-30% of your resources towards defensive structures or abilities, ensuring a safety net in case your initial assault is repelled. Additionally, monitor Ludwig's behavior for signs of adaptation, such as increased aggression or altered movement patterns, and adjust your strategy accordingly.

In conclusion, exploiting Ludwig's slow start requires a delicate balance between aggression and caution. By focusing on high-impact, early game strategies and maintaining a flexible approach, players can establish a dominant position, setting the stage for a successful outcome. Remember, the key to victory lies not only in seizing the initiative but also in adapting to Ludwig's responses, ensuring that your early game investments translate into long-term success. With practice and refinement, this tactic can become a powerful tool in your arsenal, enabling you to consistently outmaneuver Ludwig and emerge victorious.

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Abuse environmental hazards: Use stage layout to trap Ludwig or force predictable movements for easy damage

Ludwig, the Holy Blade, is a formidable boss in *Elden Ring*, known for his aggressive combos and relentless pursuit. However, the arena itself can become your greatest ally if you understand how to manipulate its environmental hazards. The stage’s layout is not just a backdrop—it’s a tool for trapping Ludwig, forcing predictable movements, and creating opportunities for safe, consistent damage.

One of the most effective strategies involves luring Ludwig into the central pillar of the arena. This pillar is not just an obstacle; it’s a choke point. When Ludwig is positioned near it, his attacks often become telegraphed and easier to dodge. For example, his sweeping strikes will collide with the pillar, giving you a brief window to strike back. Additionally, the pillar can disrupt his AI, causing him to pause or adjust his positioning, which you can exploit to land a few hits or heal. The key is patience—wait for him to commit to an attack, then circle around the pillar to punish his recovery frames.

Another environmental hazard to abuse is the arena’s edges. Ludwig’s AI is programmed to prioritize closing the distance, which means he’ll often charge directly at you if you’re near the perimeter. Use this to your advantage by baiting him into running toward the edges, then dodge his charge and roll back toward the center. This not only forces predictable movements but also limits his attack options, as he’ll often perform wide, telegraphed strikes when emerging from a sprint. Repeat this process to chip away at his health while minimizing your risk of taking damage.

For a more aggressive approach, consider using the arena’s narrow pathways to your advantage. During Phase 2, when Ludwig becomes more aggressive and gains new attacks, the stage’s tighter spaces can restrict his mobility. Position yourself in a corner or against a wall, and Ludwig will often struggle to land his wide-arcing swings. This creates a safe zone where you can focus on dodging and counterattacking. Be cautious, though—staying too close to the walls for too long can leave you vulnerable to his grab attack, so maintain awareness and be ready to reposition.

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of summoning allies. While not strictly an environmental hazard, summoning NPCs like Latenna or Ashen Wolves can distract Ludwig and force him into predictable patterns. As he focuses on your summon, you can position yourself near the pillar or an edge, ready to capitalize on his distracted state. This tactic is particularly effective in Phase 1, where Ludwig’s attacks are less chaotic. Just ensure your summon doesn’t aggro him too far from your desired position, as this can disrupt your strategy.

By mastering the stage layout and leveraging its environmental hazards, you can turn Ludwig’s arena into a trap-filled gauntlet that works in your favor. Patience, positioning, and an understanding of his AI are key. With practice, you’ll find that even the Holy Blade’s most fearsome attacks can be neutralized, turning a daunting fight into a manageable—even cheesy—victory.

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Spam high-damage combos: Prioritize moves with long hitstun to prevent Ludwig from counterattacking effectively

In the relentless dance of combat against Ludwig, the Holy Blade, every second counts. His aggressive AI and punishing counterattacks demand a strategy that minimizes his opportunities to strike back. Here’s where spamming high-damage combos with long hitstun becomes your lifeline. Moves like the Transformed Ludwig’s Holy Blade R2 or Charged Bolt of Mercy lock Ludwig into extended hitstun, effectively neutering his ability to retaliate. Pair these with quick, high-damage follow-ups like the Repeating Pistol or Hunter Tools to maximize damage before he recovers.

Consider the Transformed Ludwig’s Holy Blade R2 as a prime example. This move not only deals substantial damage but also stuns Ludwig for a full 1.5 seconds, leaving him vulnerable to a follow-up attack. Combine this with the Repeating Pistol, which fires three shots in rapid succession, and you’ve created a combo that deals over 1,200 damage in under 3 seconds. The key is consistency—practice this sequence until it becomes muscle memory, ensuring you execute it flawlessly even under pressure.

However, spamming isn’t without risk. Over-reliance on a single combo can make you predictable, especially if Ludwig’s AI adapts. To counter this, vary your approach by incorporating other long-hitstun moves like the Charged Bolt of Mercy, which stuns Ludwig for 1.2 seconds and deals 800 damage. Follow it up with a Visceral Attack for an additional 400 damage, keeping the pressure on while maintaining unpredictability.

Timing is critical. Ludwig’s attacks have specific recovery frames, and exploiting these windows is essential. For instance, after his Sweep Attack, there’s a 0.8-second delay before he can act again. Use this moment to unleash your high-damage combo, ensuring he remains stunned throughout. Practice in the Hunter’s Nightmare or Research Hall to refine your timing and combo execution before facing Ludwig in his arena.

Finally, remember that cheese strategies thrive on efficiency, not complexity. Focus on mastering 2–3 high-damage, long-hitstun combos rather than attempting a wide repertoire. This approach not only maximizes damage output but also reduces the cognitive load during the fight, allowing you to react swiftly to Ludwig’s unpredictable movements. With patience, precision, and practice, spamming these combos will turn the tide in your favor, transforming a daunting boss fight into a calculated, repeatable victory.

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Exploit recovery weaknesses: Target Ludwig's vulnerable recovery options with edge-guarding or off-stage pressure

Ludwig's recovery, while robust, has exploitable weaknesses that can be targeted through precise edge-guarding and off-stage pressure. His primary recovery options—Up Special (Egg Toss) and Side Special (Egg Missile)—are predictable and lack horizontal distance, making them vulnerable to well-timed intercepts. By understanding these limitations, players can force Ludwig into disadvantageous positions and secure early KOs.

To effectively edge-guard Ludwig, focus on denying his Up Special. This move has significant startup lag and a fixed trajectory, making it easy to punish with fast aerials or projectiles. For example, characters like Pikachu or Samus can use quick multi-hits (such as Pikachu’s Fair or Samus’s Dair) to disrupt the Up Special’s animation. Position yourself slightly above the ledge to bait Ludwig into committing to the move, then strike during the first frames of his ascent.

Off-stage pressure is equally critical. Ludwig’s double jump is slow, and his Side Special (Egg Missile) is primarily a defensive tool rather than a reliable recovery method. Use this to your advantage by forcing him into a corner off-stage. Characters with strong off-stage presence, like Sheik or Zero Suit Samus, can chase Ludwig with extended hitboxes or projectiles, limiting his options. Aim to keep him in the air, where his recovery is most vulnerable, rather than letting him retreat to the ledge.

However, caution is necessary. Ludwig’s Down Special (Poison Cloud) can create temporary safety zones, and his weight makes him difficult to KO vertically. Avoid overcommitting off-stage unless you’re confident in your character’s recovery or have a strong read. Instead, prioritize consistent pressure and look for opportunities to edge-guard when Ludwig is forced to act.

In conclusion, exploiting Ludwig’s recovery weaknesses requires patience, precision, and character-specific tools. By targeting his predictable Up Special and limiting his off-stage options, players can neutralize one of his most critical strengths. Practice edge-guarding scenarios in training mode to refine your timing and spacing, and adapt your approach based on Ludwig’s habits. With consistent execution, this strategy can turn the tide in your favor.

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Use projectiles to zone: Keep Ludwig at a distance with consistent projectile spam to limit their approach options

Projectile spam isn't just a mindless tactic—it's a calculated strategy to dismantle Ludwig's aggression. By maintaining a steady stream of ranged attacks, you force them into a reactive state, limiting their ability to execute their own combos or close the distance. This method leverages the inherent advantage of range, turning the battlefield into a zone of control rather than a chaotic melee.

To execute this effectively, prioritize projectiles with rapid fire rates or wide area coverage. For instance, using a scatter shot or multi-hit arrow can create a no-man's land that Ludwig will hesitate to cross. Aim for consistent, low-damage hits rather than sporadic high-damage shots. The goal is to disrupt their rhythm, not necessarily to deplete their health bar in one go. Keep your distance, but stay mobile—predictable patterns will leave you vulnerable to Ludwig's counterattacks.

However, this strategy isn't without risks. Over-reliance on projectiles can drain resources quickly, especially if Ludwig adapts by dodging or closing the gap faster than anticipated. To mitigate this, mix in occasional dashes or evasive maneuvers to reset the engagement. Additionally, monitor Ludwig's behavior—if they begin to prioritize defense, switch to a more aggressive approach to capitalize on their caution.

The key takeaway is balance. Projectile zoning is most effective when paired with situational awareness and adaptability. Use it to dictate the pace of the fight, but be ready to pivot if Ludwig adjusts their tactics. Master this approach, and you'll transform the battlefield into a chessboard, with Ludwig perpetually on the defensive.

Frequently asked questions

"Cheese Ludwig" refers to using strategies or exploits to defeat Ludwig, the Holy Blade, a challenging boss in *Bloodborne*, with minimal effort or risk.

Common strategies include using the "parry cheese" method with the Gun, exploiting Ludwig's AI by staying near his hind legs, or using the "backstab" technique with a fast weapon.

Cheesing Ludwig is a valid strategy, but some players view it as less satisfying than defeating the boss through intended mechanics. It’s ultimately a personal choice based on your playstyle.

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