Is Cleric Beast the Easiest Boss in Bloodborne? A Hunter’s Perspective
The question of whether the Cleric Beast is the easiest boss in Bloodborne is one that sparks a lot of debate among hunters. While it’s a very common sentiment and often cited as such, the answer isn’t quite as straightforward as it seems. In short: yes, for most players, the Cleric Beast is the easiest boss, especially for newcomers to the Soulsborne genre. However, “easiest” is relative, and depends heavily on player skill, build, and familiarity with the game’s mechanics. Let’s delve deeper into why this is and explore the nuances of this iconic encounter.
Why the Cleric Beast is Considered Easy
Several factors contribute to the Cleric Beast’s reputation as a relatively simple boss fight:
- Early Encounter: The Cleric Beast is encountered incredibly early in the game. By this point, you will have had some basic tutorials to understand how the game is played.
- Telegraphic Attacks: The Cleric Beast’s attacks, while powerful, are generally slow and easily telegraphed. This gives players ample opportunity to learn its attack patterns and react accordingly. Veterans of Soulsborne games will recognize these large, sweeping motions and readily adapt their dodging strategy. Newcomers learn this skill.
- Large Arena: The Great Bridge provides a large and open arena, giving players plenty of room to maneuver and avoid the Cleric Beast’s attacks. There are no environmental hazards or cramped spaces to worry about.
- Straightforward Mechanics: The fight is a simple, brute-force encounter. There are no phases, no tricky gimmicks, and no elemental resistances to exploit. It’s just hunter versus beast in a test of skill and endurance.
- Vulnerability to Fire and Serration: The Cleric Beast, being a beast-type enemy, is weak to fire and serrated weapons. This allows players to use Molotov Cocktails and weapons like the Saw Cleaver or Saw Spear to deal significant damage.
The Counterarguments: Why the Cleric Beast Might Not Be the Easiest
Despite these factors, some argue that the Cleric Beast isn’t necessarily the easiest boss:
- First Boss Jitters: For players entirely new to Bloodborne or the Soulsborne genre, the initial shock and unfamiliarity can make the Cleric Beast seem overwhelming. The game’s learning curve is steep, and mastering dodging and stamina management takes time.
- Aggressive Playstyle: The Cleric Beast’s relentless aggression can catch inexperienced players off guard. They may panic and make mistakes, leading to quick deaths.
- Lack of Upgrades: Players will usually enter the fight with minimal weapon upgrades and limited healing items. This can make the fight a war of attrition, especially if they’re struggling to consistently dodge attacks.
A Comparison: Cleric Beast vs. Father Gascoigne
It’s important to note that many players find Father Gascoigne, the next mandatory boss, significantly harder than the Cleric Beast. Gascoigne is faster, more aggressive, and has a complex, three-stage fight. Compared to Gascoigne, the Cleric Beast’s simplicity is a welcome respite. In that sense, the Cleric Beast is like a tutorial for new hunters, preparing them for the challenges ahead. This concept of using game environments as learning tools is explored further by institutions like the Games Learning Society through their research. You can learn more about that here: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Conclusion
Ultimately, while some players might find other bosses easier due to specific builds or strategies, the Cleric Beast is generally considered the easiest boss in Bloodborne, particularly for new players. Its slow, predictable attacks, large arena, and vulnerabilities to fire and serration damage make it a manageable challenge for hunters just starting their journey. It serves as an excellent introduction to the game’s mechanics and combat system, preparing players for the tougher challenges that lie ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to the Cleric Beast, providing additional valuable information for Bloodborne players:
1. What level should I be to fight the Cleric Beast?
A level between 10-20 is perfectly adequate for the Cleric Beast. Focus more on upgrading your weapon at the workshop and using effective tactics than simply leveling up.
2. What is the Cleric Beast weak to?
The Cleric Beast is weak to Fire and Serration damage. Molotov Cocktails and weapons like the Saw Cleaver are extremely effective.
3. Can you skip the Cleric Beast?
Technically, yes, you can skip the Cleric Beast and fight Father Gascoigne first. However, you’ll eventually need to kill the Cleric Beast as it drops an item essential for progression.
4. What item does the Cleric Beast drop?
The Cleric Beast drops the Sword Hunter Badge, which allows you to purchase the Saw Spear, Threaded Cane, and Hunter Axe from the Bath Messengers in the Hunter’s Dream. It also enables you to purchase Antidotes and Bold Hunter’s Marks.
5. How do I dodge the Cleric Beast’s attacks?
Dodge towards or through its attacks, rather than away from them. This will position you behind it, giving you a window to strike. Time your dodges carefully to avoid getting caught in its sweeping attacks.
6. What’s the best weapon for the Cleric Beast?
The Saw Cleaver is an excellent choice due to its serrated damage. Alternatively, Molotov cocktails are effective too.
7. How do I heal during the fight?
Create some distance between yourself and the Cleric Beast before attempting to heal. Its attacks have a long range, so be careful not to get caught off guard.
8. Can I parry the Cleric Beast?
No, the Cleric Beast cannot be parried. Focus on dodging and attacking its limbs.
9. Should I lock on to the Cleric Beast?
Locking on can be helpful for focusing your attacks, but it can also limit your movement. Experiment with both locked-on and unlocked playstyles to see what works best for you.
10. What happens if I die to the Cleric Beast?
You will respawn at the last lamp you rested at. You’ll need to retrieve your Blood Echoes from where you died, or they might be picked up by an enemy.
11. Is it possible to summon help for the Cleric Beast?
Yes, if you have acquired the Beckoning Bell, you can summon other players to assist you with the fight.
12. What is the lore behind the Cleric Beast?
The Cleric Beast is believed to be a transformed cleric of the Healing Church, corrupted by the Old Blood.
13. How many Molotov Cocktails should I bring to the fight?
Having 5-10 Molotov Cocktails can significantly speed up the fight, especially if you’re struggling with melee attacks.
14. What is the easiest strategy for beating the Cleric Beast?
Stay close to the Cleric Beast and focus on attacking its limbs. Damaging its limbs will cause it to stagger, allowing you to land more attacks. Use Molotovs when you have an opening.
15. Is the Cleric Beast harder on New Game Plus (NG+)?
Yes, the Cleric Beast will have increased health and damage in NG+, but your character will also be stronger, with better weapons and stats.