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Is Blood-Starved Beast Harder Than Amelia? A Hunter’s Perspective

The age-old question plaguing aspiring Hunters in Bloodborne: Is the Blood-Starved Beast (BSB) harder than Vicar Amelia? The answer, like most things in Bloodborne, is nuanced and depends heavily on individual playstyle, build, and when you choose to tackle each boss. However, in most cases, the Blood-Starved Beast presents a steeper initial learning curve than Vicar Amelia, making it arguably harder for many players on their first playthrough. This is primarily due to its aggressive moveset, potent poison buildup, and relatively small arena. Amelia, while visually intimidating and capable of devastating attacks, provides more opportunities for dodging, healing, and exploiting her weaknesses.

Diving Deeper: Why the BSB Holds the Edge

The challenge of the BSB hinges on several key factors that often trip up new players:

Aggression: The BSB is relentless. It leaps, swipes, and lunges with almost no respite, forcing players into a defensive stance that can quickly deplete stamina. New players, still learning the rhythm of Bloodborne‘s combat, often struggle to find openings.
Poison: This is the BSB’s signature weapon. Its attacks inflict rapid poison buildup, which, if allowed to fully accumulate, can quickly drain health and lead to a swift demise. Managing poison requires awareness, timely use of Antidotes, and a preemptive approach – all skills that many players are still developing when facing this boss.
Limited Space: The arena for the BSB is relatively small, making it difficult to create distance for healing or strategic positioning. This claustrophobic environment amplifies the pressure of the BSB’s relentless attacks.
Early Encounter: The BSB is typically encountered earlier in the game than Amelia. Players may not have fully upgraded weapons, optimized their stats, or acquired key items like Fire Paper, making the fight significantly more challenging.
Dodging Requirements: The BSB’s erratic movements require precise dodging, particularly to the sides. Dodging backward often leaves you vulnerable to its lunges, forcing players to master a more advanced dodging technique.

Amelia’s Apparent “Easier” Nature

While Vicar Amelia is undoubtedly a formidable opponent, she presents challenges that are, arguably, more manageable for new players:

Telegraphing Attacks: Amelia’s attacks are generally well-telegraphed, providing ample warning for players to react accordingly. Her wind-up animations are longer and more distinct than the BSB’s rapid flailing.
Vulnerable Openings: Amelia is particularly vulnerable after certain attacks, such as her prayer animation, allowing players to punish her with sustained damage. These opportunities are less frequent and more difficult to exploit against the BSB.
Larger Arena: The arena for Amelia is significantly larger than the BSB’s, providing more space for maneuvering, healing, and strategic positioning. This allows players to create distance and recover from mistakes.
Fire Weakness: Amelia is highly susceptible to fire damage. Using Fire Paper or the Flamesprayer can significantly increase your damage output and shorten the fight.
NPC Summon: Players have the option to summon an NPC Hunter for assistance in the Amelia fight. While the NPC may not be the most effective combatant, they can provide a valuable distraction and absorb some of Amelia’s attacks.

It’s Not Just About Raw Difficulty: Player Skill and Build Matter

Ultimately, the perceived difficulty of each boss is subjective and influenced by factors beyond the inherent challenges they present. A player with a strong focus on strength and heavy weapons might find Amelia easier to stagger and punish, while a player with a more agile, skill-based build might excel at dodging the BSB’s attacks.

Furthermore, your level, weapon upgrades, and understanding of the game mechanics all play a crucial role. A player who has thoroughly explored Central Yharnam, upgraded their weapon to +3, and learned to parry effectively may find the BSB a relatively straightforward encounter. Conversely, a player who rushes straight to Amelia with a poorly upgraded weapon and limited experience may struggle significantly.

The Games Learning Society explores how games teach complex skills, which is certainly relevant when tackling challenging encounters like the BSB and Amelia. Consider how the Bloodborne forces you to learn and adapt to overcome obstacles. You can learn more at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Blood-Starved Beast and Vicar Amelia

1. What is the best strategy for beating Blood-Starved Beast?

Use Pungent Blood Cocktails to distract the BSB, then attack its back. Dodge aggressively to the sides, not backward. Use Fire Paper to inflict extra damage.

2. What is the best strategy for beating Vicar Amelia?

Use Fire Paper to exploit her fire weakness. Target her limbs to stagger her and create openings for visceral attacks. Dodge her attacks and heal when necessary.

3. What level should I be when fighting Blood-Starved Beast?

A level range of 20-30 is generally recommended for the BSB.

4. What level should I be when fighting Vicar Amelia?

A level range of 30-40 is generally recommended for Vicar Amelia.

5. Which weapon is best for Blood-Starved Beast?

Faster weapons like the Saw Cleaver or Threaded Cane (whipped form) are effective against the BSB due to their speed and ability to exploit openings.

6. Which weapon is best for Vicar Amelia?

Weapons with good reach and damage, like the Hunter Axe or Ludwig’s Holy Blade, are effective against Amelia. The transformed modes of these weapons can also help to stagger her.

7. How do I cure poison quickly in Bloodborne?

Use an Antidote to instantly cure poison buildup. Keep several on hand during the BSB fight.

8. Where can I find Fire Paper?

Fire Paper can be found throughout Yharnam, purchased from the Bath Messengers in the Hunter’s Dream, or obtained as loot from enemies.

9. What is the best way to dodge Blood-Starved Beast’s attacks?

Dodge towards its attacks and slightly to the side. This will allow you to get behind it and avoid most of its offensive maneuvers.

10. Can I summon help for the Blood-Starved Beast?

Yes, you can summon Alfred to assist you in the BSB fight if you have spoken to him earlier in the game.

11. Can I summon help for Vicar Amelia?

Yes, you can summon Henriett to assist you in the Amelia fight. Her summon sign is located near the Grand Cathedral lamp.

12. Is Blood-Starved Beast weak to any particular damage type besides Fire?

The BSB is also somewhat weak to serrated weapons. The Saw Cleaver in its base form is serrated, providing a damage bonus.

13. What are the Blood-Starved Beast’s attack patterns?

The BSB has a variety of attacks, including swipes, lunges, and poison spit. Pay attention to its body language to anticipate its moves and dodge accordingly.

14. What are Vicar Amelia’s attack patterns?

Amelia’s attacks include swipes, slams, and healing. Pay attention to her glowing hands when she tries to heal and interrupt her to prevent her from regaining health.

15. Should I fight Blood-Starved Beast or Vicar Amelia first?

While you can fight Amelia first, it is generally recommended to fight the Blood-Starved Beast first. This will allow you to gain valuable experience and upgrade your weapon before tackling the arguably tougher challenge of Amelia (at that stage of the game). Beating BSB also opens up new areas that can further strengthen your hunter.

Is Blood Starved Beast harder than Amelia?