Navigating the Nightmare: Your Next Steps After Father Gascoigne in Bloodborne
So, you’ve managed to put down Father Gascoigne, the tormented hunter-turned-beast, in the haunting streets of Yharnam. Congratulations, Hunter! But the hunt is far from over. Now, the pivotal question arises: where do you go next? The answer is straightforward, yet branching:
After you’ve killed Father Gascoigne, immediately light the Tomb of Oedon lamp. This crucial act saves your progress and provides a vital respawn point. Then, head up the stairs to the right of the lamp. You should now be standing in front of a large gate.
You’ll need the Oedon Tomb Key, which you received after defeating Gascoigne, to unlock it. However, don’t rush in just yet. Before opening the gate, explore the left-hand corner of the area. You’ll find a gap in the fence. This leads to a lower area of Yharnam.
This is where the path diverges. The gate leads to the Cathedral Ward, the more direct route and next main area of the game. The gap in the fence, however, leads down into a sewer system, connecting to other previously inaccessible areas. Both paths are valid, and which one you choose first depends on your playstyle and level of preparedness.
If you are new to the game, the Cathedral Ward is going to give you some important new tools and items. However, the area below is home to some very helpful materials for upgrading your items.
Choose your path Hunter, for the night is dark and full of terrors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Post-Gascoigne Exploration
What should I do immediately after beating Father Gascoigne?
Immediately after defeating Father Gascoigne, your top priority is to activate the Tomb of Oedon lamp. This serves as a crucial checkpoint, ensuring you won’t have to repeat the Gascoigne fight if you fall in subsequent encounters. Then, collect your thoughts and consider which path to take, either through the gate to Cathedral Ward or down the gap in the fence.
Is Father Gascoigne a mandatory boss?
Yes, Father Gascoigne is a mandatory boss in Bloodborne. Defeating him is essential to progressing the main storyline and opening up new areas like the Cathedral Ward. There’s no way around facing him if you intend to complete the game.
What is the significance of the Oedon Tomb Key?
The Oedon Tomb Key is a key item acquired after vanquishing Father Gascoigne. It unlocks the large gate near the Tomb of Oedon lamp, granting access to the Cathedral Ward, a critical location in Bloodborne’s narrative. Without this key, progression is halted.
Should I explore the Cathedral Ward before going down the gap in the fence?
Whether you explore the Cathedral Ward or venture down the gap first is a matter of personal preference. The Cathedral Ward is generally considered the more straightforward path and is recommended for those who want to follow the main storyline. The area accessible via the gap offers opportunities for item collection and exploration.
What dangers await me in the Cathedral Ward?
The Cathedral Ward is teeming with threats. Expect to encounter numerous enemies, including Church Servants, Wheelchair Mob, and larger beasts. Navigating the area requires caution and strategic combat, as enemies are often positioned to ambush unsuspecting hunters.
What are the benefits of exploring the area accessible via the gap in the fence?
Exploring the area accessible through the gap in the fence allows you to access earlier areas like the Central Yharnam sewers. This route presents a chance to collect valuable items, such as Blood Stone Shards for weapon upgrades, and to unlock shortcuts that make navigating Yharnam easier.
What is the Hunter Chief Emblem and where do I get it?
The Hunter Chief Emblem is a key item that can be purchased from the Messengers in the Hunter’s Dream for 10,000 Blood Echoes. This emblem unlocks the main gate in the Cathedral Ward, providing an alternate route to Vicar Amelia. While not mandatory (the back way is free), it’s a shortcut for players who have accumulated a large number of Blood Echoes.
Who is Vicar Amelia and how do I reach her?
Vicar Amelia is a mandatory boss found in the Grand Cathedral, located within the Cathedral Ward. To reach her, you must navigate through the Cathedral Ward, either by opening the main gate with the Hunter Chief Emblem or by exploring the side paths. She is a formidable opponent, testing your combat skills and strategic use of items.
Is the Blood-Starved Beast optional?
Yes, the Blood-Starved Beast is an optional boss located in Old Yharnam. While defeating it isn’t required to complete the main story, it grants access to the Pthumeru Chalice, which unlocks Chalice Dungeons, providing additional content and challenges.
What order should I fight the bosses in Bloodborne?
The general consensus for the best boss order is as follows:
- Cleric Beast (Optional)
- Father Gascoigne
- Blood-Starved Beast (Optional)
- Vicar Amelia
- The Witch of Hemwick (Optional)
- Shadow of Yharnam
- Rom, the Vacuous Spider
- Darkbeast Paarl (Optional)
This is only a suggestion, and you are free to adapt this order to your needs and playstyle.
How do I get to Old Yharnam?
To get to Old Yharnam, you must first progress to the Cathedral Ward. From there, look for a side exit leading to the Healing Church Workshop. Navigate down the tower by carefully dropping to lower levels, and eventually you’ll find a path that leads to Old Yharnam.
What level should I be to fight Vicar Amelia?
A recommended level range for facing Vicar Amelia is between level 25 and 30. It’s also essential to upgrade your weapon to at least +3 or +4 to deal sufficient damage. Focus on leveling up Vitality for more health and Strength or Skill, depending on your weapon of choice.
Where is the Upper Cathedral Ward and how do I access it?
The Upper Cathedral Ward is a hidden, optional area located in Bloodborne. To access it, you need to acquire the Upper Cathedral Key. This key can be found in the Healing Church Workshop, in the hidden area accessible by dropping down the scaffolding. It is one of the optional areas with lots of things to see and do.
What is the password in Bloodborne and when do I get it?
The password in Bloodborne is “Fear the old blood”. You obtain this password automatically after defeating Vicar Amelia. This password is used to unlock a specific location later in the game, furthering the narrative and granting access to new areas.
Where can I learn more about the educational aspects of video games?
If you’re interested in the intersection of learning and video games, check out the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The Games Learning Society explores the potential of games as tools for education and engagement. This is a great opportunity for game studies and education!
Remember, Hunter, the journey through Yharnam is fraught with peril, but also filled with hidden wonders and profound discoveries. Choose your path wisely, and may the good blood guide your way!