In the vast and unforgiving world of Elden Ring, mastering the Bloodhound Step skill can be the difference between life and death. This Ash of War grants players a powerful movement ability, allowing them to blink across short distances at high speed while temporarily becoming invisible. Whether you’re trying to outmaneuver a boss, escape from a PvP invasion, or just enjoy stylish mobility, understanding how to Bloodhound Step effectively is essential. This guide breaks down how to get, equip, and use Bloodhound Step for optimal performance across different combat scenarios.
What is Bloodhound Step?
Overview of the Skill
Bloodhound Step is an Ash of War skill that allows players to dash in any direction, including forward, backward, or sideways, while becoming momentarily invisible. It provides extreme invincibility frames (i-frames), similar to a roll, but with more range and speed. This makes it ideal for dodging attacks, repositioning, or closing gaps with enemies.
- Grants high-speed directional movement
- Offers increased invincibility frames over normal dodges
- Great for both PvE and PvP combat
Because of its versatility and defensive utility, it’s highly favored by players who focus on dexterity builds or who want to avoid taking damage while remaining aggressive in combat.
How to Get Bloodhound Step
Location and Requirements
To acquire Bloodhound Step, you need to defeat a specific enemy known as the Night’s Cavalry found in Dragonbarrow, northeast of the Lenne’s Rise Site of Grace. This enemy only appears at night, so you’ll have to rest until nightfall at a nearby Grace point before it will spawn.
Here’s how to reach the location:
- Head to Caelid and reach the Lenne’s Rise area
- Wait until nighttime at the Site of Grace
- Defeat the Night’s Cavalry roaming the bridge
Once defeated, you’ll receive the Bloodhound Step Ash of War. This can then be applied to any weapon that allows Ash of War infusion, typically small to medium melee weapons.
Recommended Weapon Types
Bloodhound Step works best with weapons that allow quick attacks or hit-and-run strategies. Some popular choices include:
- Katanas
- Straight swords
- Daggers
- Fist weapons
Although heavier weapons can use it, it shines more when paired with speed and dexterity-based loadouts.
How to Use Bloodhound Step
Basic Controls
After equipping the Ash of War on a compatible weapon, you can use Bloodhound Step by holding the skill button (L2/LT) and flicking the movement stick in the desired direction. Your character will blink in that direction and become temporarily invisible while moving.
Key points to remember:
- Consumes a small amount of FP (Focus Points) per use
- Can be chained in quick succession if you have the FP and stamina
- Works even while locked onto enemies
Best Situations for Bloodhound Step
Bloodhound Step isn’t just for flair it serves many purposes during combat:
- Boss Fights: Dodge massive AoE attacks or close in on the boss safely
- PvP: Evade magic spells or break enemy targeting
- Exploration: Avoid enemies or traps while moving through dangerous zones
With proper timing, you can even use it to dodge incoming arrows, projectiles, or spells mid-flight.
Combat Strategies Using Bloodhound Step
Against Bosses
When fighting large bosses with sweeping or delayed attacks, Bloodhound Step gives you the edge by letting you reposition with ease. The key is to watch for attack wind-ups and blink to the side or behind them. This allows for immediate counter-attacks without risking a hit from follow-up moves.
In PvP Encounters
Invasions and duels are where Bloodhound Step truly shines. Opponents often rely on lock-ons or predictable tracking. A well-timed blink can completely throw them off, giving you the chance to punish their whiffed attacks.
Tips for PvP:
- Use unpredictability: Blink backwards when they expect a forward rush
- Pair it with fast weapons for hit-and-run tactics
- Manage FP carefully don’t spam and leave yourself vulnerable
Build Synergies and Optimization
Stat Recommendations
While Bloodhound Step doesn’t scale directly with any stat, it’s best used with characters that focus on mobility and speed. Recommended build focuses include:
- Dexterity: Increases damage output with fast weapons
- Mind: Boosts FP pool for more frequent Step usage
- Endurance: Supports stamina recovery and gear load
Ideal Gear Choices
To maximize the benefits of Bloodhound Step, you’ll want to equip lightweight armor for faster movement and better stamina conservation. Some talismans can also enhance your dodge ability or recover stamina faster.
- Green Turtle Talisman: Increases stamina recovery speed
- Erdtree’s Favor: Improves HP and stamina overall
- Lightweight armor sets: Keep you in the medium roll range
Limitations and Counters
When Not to Use Bloodhound Step
While powerful, Bloodhound Step isn’t always the best option. Overuse can drain your FP, leaving you without resources for healing or spells. Additionally, some bosses have unpredictable AoEs or tracking attacks that can still hit you if your timing is off.
Countered in PvP
Experienced PvP players may anticipate your Bloodhound Step and bait your movement with delayed swings or spells. Be sure to vary your approach and avoid falling into predictable patterns.
Tips for Mastery
Practice and Timing
Bloodhound Step is most effective when used with precise timing. Practice using it to dodge at the last second for maximum invincibility. Watch enemy patterns and practice in low-stakes fights until it becomes second nature.
Don’t Rely Solely on It
Like all tools, Bloodhound Step is best used as part of a complete combat strategy. Pair it with parries, ranged attacks, or crowd control spells to remain unpredictable and effective in all situations.
Bloodhound Step is one of the most powerful mobility tools in Elden Ring, offering unmatched speed, versatility, and defensive potential. Whether you’re taking on massive bosses or agile PvP enemies, mastering this skill can elevate your gameplay and keep you one step ahead of danger. With the right build, careful resource management, and tactical use, Bloodhound Step can be your ultimate tool for survival and domination in the Lands Between.