Bloodhound Step is one of the most sought-after Ashes of War in Elden Ring, and for good reason. It grants players a powerful teleport-style dodge that can be a game-changer during intense battles. If you’ve ever seen another Tarnished vanish and reappear behind their enemy in a flash, they were likely using this exact ability. This powerful skill not only looks stylish but also gives players a significant tactical advantage in both PvE and PvP. Knowing where to find Bloodhound Step can elevate your Elden Ring experience, especially if you favor dexterity-based or evasive builds.
What Is Bloodhound Step?
Understanding the Ash of War
Bloodhound Step is an Ash of War that allows players to perform a swift, nearly invisible dash in any direction. It’s especially effective for dodging attacks or closing distance quickly. Unlike standard dodging or rolling, Bloodhound Step offers invincibility frames (i-frames) for a longer period and covers more ground in less time.
Why Players Seek It Out
This Ash of War has become extremely popular among players due to its usefulness in both avoiding enemy attacks and repositioning during combat. It’s particularly valuable in PvP, where timing and movement are everything. Players who master the use of Bloodhound Step can become extremely hard to hit, making them a nightmare for less agile opponents.
Where to Find Bloodhound Step
Location: Dragonbarrow in Caelid
Bloodhound Step can be obtained by defeating a specific Night’s Cavalry boss in the Dragonbarrow region of Caelid. This area is known for its high-level enemies and corrupted environment, so prepare for a challenge if you’re heading there early in the game.
Step-by-Step Guide to Finding It
- First, head to the northeastern part of Caelid, specifically to the Dragonbarrow region.
- Look for the Lenne’s Rise Site of Grace near a broken bridge. You’ll want to activate this as a fast-travel point.
- The Night’s Cavalry only appears at night, so if it’s daytime, rest at the Site of Grace and pass time until nightfall.
- Once night arrives, ride west across the bridge. You will encounter the Night’s Cavalry patrolling the road.
- Defeat the Night’s Cavalry to receive the Bloodhound Step Ash of War as your reward.
Night’s Cavalry Boss Tips
The Night’s Cavalry you face in Dragonbarrow is not a pushover. He rides a massive horse, wields a powerful halberd, and has aggressive attack patterns. Here are some tips to make the fight more manageable:
- Use Torrent (your mount) to stay mobile and kite the boss effectively.
- Wait for the cavalry to swing, dodge sideways, and counterattack quickly before backing away.
- Don’t get greedy with your hits take one or two strikes and retreat.
- Spirit Ashes can be summoned to help in this area, so consider using them to divide the boss’s attention.
How to Use Bloodhound Step
Applying It to Your Weapon
Once you have the Ash of War, head to a Site of Grace. From the menu, choose ‘Ashes of War’ and apply Bloodhound Step to a compatible weapon, typically one that allows for standard or keen infusions. Keep in mind that not every weapon can use this skill, so choose wisely.
Combat Applications
Bloodhound Step is ideal for players who prefer fast-paced combat. You can use it to:
- Evade powerful boss attacks that are hard to dodge with a normal roll.
- Close distance between you and a ranged opponent.
- Confuse enemies in PvP by rapidly changing your position.
- Escape bad situations when overwhelmed by mobs.
Stamina and Timing
While Bloodhound Step is powerful, it still consumes stamina. Spamming it can leave you vulnerable if you run out, so learn the timing and use it strategically. In PvP, using it too often can also make your movements predictable to experienced players.
Advantages Over Regular Dodge
Longer Distance
Compared to the standard dodge roll, Bloodhound Step covers more ground quickly. This gives you more flexibility to reposition in combat, especially when fighting multiple enemies or large bosses.
Improved I-Frames
The invincibility frames during the Bloodhound Step are more generous than those of normal dodges. This means you can go through dangerous attacks that would normally hit you mid-roll.
Momentum Shifting
Whether you’re playing aggressively or defensively, Bloodhound Step helps shift momentum. You can quickly dash behind a boss for backstabs or retreat from a miscalculated move in a heartbeat.
When to Avoid Using Bloodhound Step
Not Ideal for Heavy Builds
While powerful, Bloodhound Step doesn’t necessarily suit every build. Heavy armor and strength-focused players might prefer tanking or blocking rather than dodging. Using Bloodhound Step in such builds can sometimes be inefficient or unnecessary.
Predictability in PvP
In competitive PvP, relying too much on Bloodhound Step can make you predictable. Skilled opponents may bait you into dashing into traps or AoE attacks. Vary your movements and avoid forming a habit loop during fights.
Weapon Compatibility
Not all weapons allow you to equip Ashes of War freely. If your build is centered around a unique weapon or boss weapon with a special skill, you may not be able to use Bloodhound Step at all. Check your weapon type before planning your build around it.
Alternatives to Bloodhound Step
Quickstep
Quickstep is a more accessible Ash of War that offers a fast dodge similar to Bloodhound Step. While it doesn’t have the same range or invisibility effect, it’s still useful and available much earlier in the game.
Raptor of the Mists
This Ash of War allows you to dodge incoming attacks by transforming into mist and countering. It’s less mobile than Bloodhound Step but still gives you creative defensive options.
Bloodhound Step is a standout Ash of War in Elden Ring for players who value mobility, evasion, and dynamic combat. Found in the perilous Dragonbarrow region of Caelid, this powerful ability requires you to defeat a challenging Night’s Cavalry boss at night. Once obtained, it can dramatically change how you approach both PvE and PvP. Mastering its use will give you an edge in fights, letting you evade, reposition, and strike with incredible speed. Whether you’re aiming to dodge lethal boss swings or outmaneuver skilled invaders, Bloodhound Step provides the tools you need to stay one step ahead in the Lands Between.