Who Should I Fight First in Bloodborne?
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The question of who to fight first in Bloodborne is more nuanced than it might initially seem. While the game pushes you toward Cleric Beast early on, and many consider him the “first boss,” a more strategic answer is: Father Gascoigne.
Let’s be clear: Cleric Beast is technically the optional first boss you’ll encounter, accessible by climbing the Great Bridge in Central Yharnam. However, tackling him before Father Gascoigne can be significantly more challenging, especially for new players.
Why Father Gascoigne First?
- Teaches Fundamental Mechanics: Gascoigne is a masterclass in Bloodborne’s combat system. He forces you to learn to dodge, parry, and manage your stamina effectively. His aggressive nature demands quick reflexes and smart positioning. Mastering these skills against him will serve you well throughout the entire game.
- More Manageable Arena: The graveyard arena where you fight Gascoigne, while enclosed, provides more cover and opportunities for strategic movement compared to the open expanse of the Great Bridge.
- Story Progression: Defeating Gascoigne opens up more of Central Yharnam and allows you to progress the story significantly. He acts as a crucial stepping stone.
- Learning Aggression: Gascoigne is incredibly aggressive, which forces you to be equally aggressive. This is a core tenet of Bloodborne’s combat philosophy, encouraging players to be proactive rather than passive.
- Accessible Location: The path to Gascoigne is relatively straightforward and introduces you to key areas within Central Yharnam. You’ll encounter valuable resources and insights along the way.
Why Not Cleric Beast First?
- Large Health Pool: Cleric Beast has a massive health bar, making the fight feel like a drawn-out slog, especially with limited resources early in the game.
- Vast Arena: The large arena can make it difficult to consistently deal damage and can lead to frustration as you chase after the boss.
- Less Strategic Combat: While still requiring some skill, the Cleric Beast fight often devolves into dodging and swinging, lacking the strategic depth of the Gascoigne encounter.
- Limited Resources: Beating Cleric Beast without upgrading your weapon and stats can be extremely difficult with the limited resources you have at the start of the game.
- Less Educational: He is bigger and has more health but does less damage than Father Gascoigne, which encourages bad habits such as trying to tank the hits, something that gets you killed later on.
How to Reach Father Gascoigne:
- From the Central Yharnam lamp, proceed through the streets, dealing with villagers and beasts.
- Look for the sewer path near the large bonfire mob.
- Navigate the sewers, being cautious of the giant rats and the large pig.
- Emerge from the sewers near a large gate.
- Find a path to the right, leading uphill to a graveyard.
- Father Gascoigne awaits you in the graveyard.
Tips for Defeating Father Gascoigne:
- Parry: Gascoigne is highly susceptible to parrying, especially in his human form. Practice your timing with the Blunderbuss or Pistol.
- Molotov Cocktails: These are extremely effective against Gascoigne, especially when he transforms into his beast form.
- Music Box: If you spoke to Gascoigne’s daughter, you’ll receive a Music Box. Using it during the fight will stun him momentarily, providing an opportunity for attack. Be careful, though, as overuse can enrage him.
- Tombstones as Cover: Use the tombstones in the graveyard to your advantage, creating space and blocking his attacks.
- Aggressive Combat: Don’t be afraid to get in close and be aggressive. Dodging towards him can often be more effective than dodging away.
While the game may point you to the Cleric Beast first, tackling Father Gascoigne first is the wiser choice for a new player. It is the proper way to learn the combat and get the best out of what the game has to offer. He provides a more valuable learning experience and opens up the game in a more meaningful way. Once you’ve conquered Gascoigne, you’ll be much better equipped to face the Cleric Beast and the challenges that lie ahead in Yharnam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Cleric Beast easier than Father Gascoigne?
No, generally Cleric Beast is not easier than Father Gascoigne for new players. While Cleric Beast is large and intimidating, his attacks are more telegraphed. However, his massive health pool and the large arena make the fight a test of endurance. Father Gascoigne, on the other hand, is faster and more aggressive, forcing you to learn key combat mechanics like dodging and parrying. Therefore, for those new to the game, Father Gascoigne is usually the more difficult of the two.
What level should I be when fighting Father Gascoigne?
Aim to be around level 15-20 before facing Father Gascoigne. This will provide you with enough health and stamina to withstand his attacks and execute your own offensive maneuvers. Focus on leveling up your Vitality and Strength/Skill, depending on your chosen weapon.
What weapon is best for Father Gascoigne?
The Saw Cleaver and Hunter Axe are both excellent choices for fighting Father Gascoigne. The Saw Cleaver’s versatility and quick attacks allow for effective parrying and dodging. The Hunter Axe, when transformed, provides good range and crowd control, helpful for dealing with his aggressive attacks.
Can I summon help for Father Gascoigne?
Yes, you can summon help for Father Gascoigne. Look for the summoning bell near the graveyard entrance. Keep in mind that summoning help will increase Gascoigne’s health, so ensure your co-op partner is skilled and well-equipped. You can summon Alfred, who is a valuable hunter NPC.
What are the weaknesses of Father Gascoigne?
Father Gascoigne is vulnerable to parrying in his human form. He is also weak to fire, making Molotov Cocktails highly effective. The Music Box, obtained from his daughter, can also stun him momentarily, providing an opportunity for attack.
How do I get the Music Box?
To get the Music Box, you need to find Gascoigne’s daughter in Central Yharnam. She is located in a window in the area near the Central Yharnam lamp. After speaking with her a few times, she will eventually give you the Music Box.
What is the best strategy for dodging Father Gascoigne’s attacks?
The best strategy is to dodge towards him, rather than away. This will allow you to get behind him and create openings for attack. Pay close attention to his attack patterns and learn the timing of his swings.
How do I parry Father Gascoigne?
To parry Father Gascoigne, you need to use your Blunderbuss or Pistol just as he is about to attack. The timing can be tricky, so practice makes perfect. A successful parry will stagger him, allowing you to perform a Visceral Attack for significant damage.
What happens if I run out of Blood Vials during the fight?
If you run out of Blood Vials, you have a few options. You can try to farm more vials from enemies in Central Yharnam. You can also use the rally system, which allows you to regain health by attacking enemies immediately after taking damage. If all else fails, you may need to retreat and restock before attempting the fight again.
Is there a way to skip Father Gascoigne?
No, there is no way to skip Father Gascoigne if you want to progress the game. He guards the entrance to the Cathedral Ward, a crucial area for advancing the main story.
What reward do I get for defeating Father Gascoigne?
Upon defeating Father Gascoigne, you will receive the Oedon Tomb Key. This key unlocks the gate to the Cathedral Ward, allowing you to continue your journey.
What should I do after defeating Father Gascoigne?
After defeating Father Gascoigne, proceed to the Cathedral Ward using the Oedon Tomb Key. Explore the area, speak to NPCs, and look for the Vicar Amelia boss fight.
How can I upgrade my weapons early in the game?
You can upgrade your weapons by visiting the Workshop in the Hunter’s Dream. You will need Blood Stone Shards and Blood Echoes to upgrade your weapons. Blood Stone Shards can be found throughout Central Yharnam, and Blood Echoes are obtained by defeating enemies.
What are the best stats to focus on early in the game?
Early in the game, focus on leveling up your Vitality to increase your health and Strength/Skill to improve your weapon damage. Depending on your chosen weapon, prioritize either Strength or Skill. Don’t neglect your Endurance, as it determines your stamina.
How do I repair my weapons in Bloodborne?
You can repair your weapons by visiting the Workshop in the Hunter’s Dream. Repairing your weapons requires Blood Echoes and is essential for maintaining their effectiveness. Weapons degrade over time as you use them, so regular maintenance is important.