Bloodborne: 5 Tips to Surviving Your First Hour in Yharnam

With FromSoftware’s Bloodborne making its way to the PS Plus lineup this month, there are many folks who will be experiencing the unforgiving world of Yharnam for the first time; and if the souls-style of gameplay isn’t your thing, getting through that first hour of Bloodborne can be an excruciatingly painful experience. Here are a few light tips to keep you alive for longer than two seconds.

1. No Pausing

Bloodborne doesn’t have a conventional “pause” option. When you bring up the menu items, everything is still happening around you in real time, with the potential to cause real danger. Be aware of your surrounding area whenever you want to stop and check your inventory.

2. Origins

Before you officially start Bloodborne, much like Dark Souls, you will be given origins to choose from. In my own playthrough, I’ve found that my “Noble Scion” Origin didn’t actually impact the game in the long run- only my starting stats. Because “Milquetoast” and “Lone Survivor” have stats that are more evenly distributed than the others, these could be good options for new players.

3. Dodge/Parry Those Attacks (or Avoid Enemies Altogether)

The enemies around Yharnam have a certain pattern of attack. If learned, it will make them easier to dodge and, ultimately, defeat. Direct confrontation without some kind of plan, (especially in the beginning) will more than likely get you killed. Many enemies travel in packs, making them that much harder to take down. Striking them first can be hugely beneficial, but if you get hit first, try attacking them back. The Regain system will restore a lost part of your health. Or, if you’re like me, avoid some of these enemies altogether. In my own first hour of Bloodborne, I remember avoiding my share of henchman like the plague.

4. Accept the Fact You Will Die. Often.

It’s going to happen. FromSoftware has pointed out it’s supposed to happen. Bloodborne has a steep learning curve, but don’t lose your patience.

5. Explore Everything

Central Yharnam has much to offer, but at the same time much can go overlooked. There are shortcuts everywhere, it only takes a bit of time and a good eye to find them.