Ludwig the Accursed is one of the most haunting and memorable bosses in the world of Bloodborne, a game filled with terror, tragedy, and twisted monstrosities. As the first boss in The Old Hunters DLC, Ludwig presents players with an unforgettable challenge. Understanding his strengths and, more importantly, his weaknesses is vital for anyone looking to survive this horrifying encounter. This topic will explore Ludwig’s combat patterns, his story, and most crucially, his weaknesses, providing players with the tools they need to emerge victorious.
Who Is Ludwig the Accursed?
Ludwig was once a revered hunter of the Healing Church, famous for his bravery and his role in defending Yharnam. However, as with many figures in Bloodborne, his descent into madness and monstrosity paints a much darker tale. After succumbing to the effects of the Old Blood, Ludwig transforms into a grotesque beast, losing his humanity and becoming the very thing he once hunted.
His transformation results in the abomination known as Ludwig the Accursed. Yet within this monster lies a trace of the man he once was, evident in the second phase of the fight when he becomes Ludwig the Holy Blade. This duality makes the battle not only mechanically intense but also emotionally stirring.
Battle Phases Overview
The fight against Ludwig is split into two distinct phases:
- Phase One – Ludwig the Accursed: An unpredictable and beastly phase where Ludwig fights on all fours, attacking with erratic movements and brutal aggression.
- Phase Two – Ludwig the Holy Blade: A more composed, humanoid phase where Ludwig wields his iconic Holy Moonlight Sword, bringing a different fighting style that demands new tactics.
Ludwig the Accursed Weaknesses
1. Fire Damage
Ludwig, like many beast-type enemies in Bloodborne, is especially vulnerable to fire. This elemental weakness is one of the easiest for players to exploit. Fire Paper, Fire-infused weapons, and the Flame Sprayer are all excellent tools to bring into the fight. Attacking Ludwig with fire-based damage causes him to flinch more often, creating openings for additional strikes.
- Use Fire Paper on melee weapons to boost fire output.
- Consider bringing the Flamesprayer or upgraded Hunter’s Torch for added utility.
- Oil Urns can amplify fire damage if thrown before using fire attacks.
2. Head and Legs as Weak Spots
During phase one, Ludwig’s head and legs are his most vulnerable parts. Attacking these areas can stagger him or lead to a visceral attack. His head, in particular, is an ideal target when he rears up or after specific attacks that leave him exposed. His legs, though harder to reach, can be consistently targeted for a more cautious and steady approach.
Striking the head often triggers a stagger, allowing for a visceral attack that deals massive damage. Be mindful, however, as Ludwig’s constant movement makes landing headshots tricky. Players should wait for specific animation cues, such as after a leap or slam attack, to reliably punish.
3. Bolt Damage (Less Effective, But Useful)
Though not as effective as fire, Ludwig is moderately weak to bolt damage, especially during the second phase. If your build favors bolt weapons like the Tonitrus or if you’re stocked up on Bolt Paper, these can still deal solid damage, especially against his more armored-looking form in the Holy Blade phase.
Strategies for Phase One: Ludwig the Accursed
Understanding Attack Patterns
In his beast form, Ludwig is chaotic and aggressive. His attacks often come in rapid, sweeping motions, sometimes covering a wide area. He frequently charges or leaps across the arena, making positioning a key element to success. Staying underneath him or near his flanks reduces the risk of being hit by his front-facing attacks.
- Watch for his frontal charge and dodge diagonally to avoid it.
- When Ludwig rears up, prepare to dodge backward or to the side.
- Use short windows between combos to land hits on his legs or head.
Exploiting Weaknesses
Using fire attacks during phase one is most effective here. Combine Fire Paper with aggressive head targeting to maximize damage and increase your chances of staggering him. Keep an eye on your stamina, as overcommitting can leave you open to counterattacks. If you’re using the Flamesprayer, aim at his chest and head when he pauses.
Transition to Phase Two: Ludwig the Holy Blade
At 50% health, Ludwig will shift into his second phase. A cutscene plays where he remembers his former identity and draws the Holy Moonlight Sword. From this point onward, his fighting style becomes more knight-like, with wide, sweeping slashes and energy-based attacks.
New Attack Style
This phase is less erratic but still dangerous. Ludwig’s sword swings are powerful and have long reach. He mixes melee attacks with arcane energy slashes that require good timing to dodge. Staying close to him can actually be safer than keeping your distance, as it allows you to interrupt his casting or melee charge-ups.
Fire Still Works, But Bolt Becomes Viable
While fire remains a viable choice, Ludwig’s new form has slightly better fire resistance. Bolt Paper becomes more effective here, especially if your weapon naturally benefits from bolt scaling. Players who favor arcane builds can also use tools like Augur of Ebrietas or Executioner’s Gloves to deal damage at a safer range.
Additional Tips and Recommendations
1. Summon Help if Needed
If the fight proves too difficult, players can summon NPCs or co-op partners. Valtr, Master of the League, can be summoned just outside the arena. While his damage may not be high, he serves as an excellent distraction to relieve pressure.
2. Equip Beast Hunter Badge Weapons
Weapons such as the Saw Cleaver or Saw Spear, which deal bonus damage to beasts, are excellent choices against Ludwig. These weapons also tend to be fast and easy to handle, making them great for dodging and countering.
3. Manage Stamina Carefully
Throughout both phases, stamina management is key. It’s tempting to go all-in after a successful dodge, but always reserve enough stamina to escape if Ludwig counters. This is especially true in the second phase, where a single combo can be deadly.
4. Patience Is Crucial
Ludwig is designed to overwhelm. Players must be disciplined, waiting for clear openings rather than forcing damage. Dodging into attacks rather than away from them often yields better results, particularly when fighting in close quarters.
Persistence and Planning Lead to Victory
Defeating Ludwig the Accursed is no small feat. His grotesque design, erratic behavior, and lore-rich presence make him one of Bloodborne’s most iconic bosses. By exploiting his elemental weaknesses especially fire targeting his head and legs, and learning his attack patterns, players can turn the tide in this brutal battle. With patience, preparation, and a bit of courage, even the most cursed can be overcome. Understanding Ludwig’s weaknesses not only brings victory but also reveals the tragic beauty hidden within this monstrous hunter’s fall from grace.