Elden Ring: From Wimp Whacks to WHAM! How to Land Those Sweet Critical Hits
Let's face it, Tarnished. You've spent hours getting pummeled by colossal lobsters and giant, angry broccoli people. You're dodging like a hummingbird on espresso, but your attacks feel like you're swatting flies with a pillow. Fear not, fellow struggler! This guide will turn your weak taps into earth-shattering critical strikes.
1. The Backstab: A Sneak Attack That Won't Get You Arrested (Probably)
We all love a good sneak attack, especially when it means massive damage. Backstabbing is your bread and butter for critical hits on unsuspecting enemies. Here's the gist:
- Get behind them: This might sound obvious, but giant enemies with swords the size of your house can be tricky to navigate. Use pillars, enemy attacks, or your amazing parkour skills to become their shadow.
- The critical window: Don't just shove your sword in their back like a maniac (although, that might work on some enemies). There's a sweet spot where a critical animation triggers. Aim for that and watch the health bar melt!
Pro-Tip: Some sneaky beakies (a.k.a. assassin enemies) might try the same trick on you. Keep your eyes peeled and be ready to counter-stab them in the face!
2. Parry and Riposte: The Art of Turning Their Strength Against Them
Feeling fancy? Then why not deflect an enemy's attack and punish them with a devastating riposte? Here's the rundown:
- The Parry: This requires a well-timed block with your shield just as the enemy's attack lands. Parrying takes practice, but the window is generous for most attacks.
- The Riposte: Once you parry successfully, a visceral attack animation will play. This is your chance to unleash a powerful counter that deals massive critical damage.
Word to the Wise: Not all enemies can be parried. Big, lumbering oafs with tree trunks for arms? Probably not. But agile enemies with swords or thrusting attacks are fair game.
3. Stance Break: When You Knock Them Silly and Do a Happy Dance (Optional)
Stance Breaking is all about overwhelming your opponent and leaving them open for a critical hit. Here's the lowdown:
- Beat down their guard: Hit an enemy repeatedly with strong attacks (hold the attack button). This depletes their invisible stance meter.
- The critical window: Once their stance breaks, they'll be stunned for a moment. This is your prime opportunity to land a critical hit with a regular attack (just tap the button).
Fun Fact: Some colossal enemies have multiple "critical spots" that open up after a stance break. Experiment and find the sweet spot for maximum damage (and giggles)!
4. Sleep Tight, Don't Let the Mimics Bite: The Power of Status Effects
Elden Ring isn't just about bashing things. Some enemies can be put to sleep with items or spells. While they slumber, unleash a critical hit for massive damage!
This tactic is particularly effective against:
- Those creepy guys who throw exploding pots: Put them to sleep and then wake them up with a critical hit... right next to their friends!
- Mimics: Don't be fooled by their innocent chest disguise. Put them to sleep and then unleash your fury! Just make sure it's actually a mimic and not a real chest filled with your dreams...
Remember: Not all enemies are susceptible to sleep. Experiment and see what works best!
Now go forth, Tarnished Champion! With these critical strike tactics in your arsenal, you'll go from "why am I even trying?" to "look at me, I'm Elden Ring Jackie Chan!"
