Bloodborne - Tips & Tricks

One of the biggest games currently available on the new Playstation 4 console is Sony's action-RPG Bloodborne. However, this game is no walk in the park – it's inspired by the incredibly difficult and spirit-crushing Dark Souls games. If you are just jumping in, you'll want to check out our list of tips and tricks to help you survive as your explore Yharnam. 

Blood Echoes

This is the currency in the world of Yharnam. Using Blood Echoes, you can buy all kinds of items. The Bath Messenger is one vendor available. You can also level up your character with Blood Echoes in Hunter's Dream. Blood Echoes aren't too hard to get, but you can also kill werewolves in central Yharnam for more if you need to. 

Remember that when you die – you drop all of your Blood Echoes. You can go back and pick them up, but so can enemies. When you are looking for a foe carrying your echoes, look for glowing purple eyes. 

Defense

While this game tends to learn towards the offensive side more often, defense is still an important part of gameplay. You always want to avoid getting hit by the enemy – your health is precious and tough to recover. Learn to evade and defend against your foe and you'll last much longer. 

Helping Hands

There are many NPCs throughout Yharnam who need help in some way. Helping these characters can get you some great perks, so don't just turn everyone down! You may find that one of these side quests gives you an useful ally, a new weapon, or other benefits. 

Hunter's Dream

This area is your safe haven in Yharnam. There are no enemies here, and you are able to store extra items here. You can also change your character here, weapons and equipment. Get to this area through the central Yharnam lamp. 

Know When to Run

Although Bloodborne focuses more on the offensive then some other action-RPGs, you still always have the option to walk away. Before you engage a random enemy, make sure you take stock of yourself. Are you prepared to take on these foes? Can you take out all the enemies, or will they surround you quickly? Answer these questions and know when to run instead. 

Lanterns & Flame

Lanterns and flame found in the world can signify different things. For example, a white flame over a dead enemy means they have an item available for you to pick up. A red lantern found at a door means someone has a tip, item, or bonus objective for you. Keep an eye out for these useful icons so you don't miss anything. 

Saving Ammo

While you do have a sidearm available, it's best not to use it. Ammo is extremely limited in this game, and wasting it on enemies might mean you are screwed later on! Only use your ammo in dire situations, when you really need it in order to survive. 

Stealth

It is possible to overtake an enemy stealthily in this game. You can walk slowly in order to avoid making noise and attracting attention. You can also throw pebbles in order to throw an enemy off of your trail – they'll be distracted, so you can take advantage of the situation. When you approach from stealth, use a powerful charge attack to take them down quickly. 

Weapons

There are different types of weapons available in the game, and you'll need to try a few in order to figure out which one bests suits your play style. Do you want to be faster? Do you want to have more power behind each strike? Learning what is best for you will help you excel in every battle.