Elden Ring, the critically acclaimed action RPG from FromSoftware, has captivated gamers with its rich open-world design, challenging boss encounters, and intricate combat mechanics. Among the many mechanics that players must master is the concept of invincibility frames (I-frames), a crucial tool in surviving tough battles. These frames allow players to Elden Ring Runes avoid taking damage during specific actions, making them a vital part of dodging attacks and surviving some of the game’s most intense encounters. While dodging remains the primary way to trigger I-frames, Elden Ring DLC content offers additional ways to incorporate invincibility into your combat strategy. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the various ways to gain I-frames and explore strategies for mastering this essential technique.
Understanding Invincibility Frames (I-Frames)
Before diving into the various methods of acquiring I-frames, let’s first clarify what they are and how they function in Elden Ring.
In simple terms, I-frames are brief moments during which your character becomes invulnerable to damage. These moments of invincibility are essential during combat, especially in Elden Ring, where enemies can deal devastating damage with just one hit. Whether you’re facing a massive boss or multiple enemies, the ability to avoid damage during key moments can be the difference between life and death.
The most common way to trigger I-frames is by dodging, but there are other techniques and mechanics—especially in the DLC—that provide additional opportunities to use I-frames to your advantage. Knowing when and how to trigger these frames can greatly enhance your survivability, especially in the game’s most punishing encounters.
Ways to Gain I-Frames in Elden Ring
While dodging remains the main method of acquiring I-frames in Elden Ring, there are several alternative techniques that can help you gain invincibility during combat. Let’s take a closer look at these methods, including those introduced in the DLC.
1. Dismounting Torrent – Riding into Battle with Invincibility
One of the lesser-known ways to gain I-frames in Elden Ring is through Torrent, the trusty steed that accompanies players throughout their journey. Torrent isn’t just a fast mode of travel—when used correctly, dismounting from Torrent can grant a brief period of invincibility.
How It Works: While riding Torrent, players can dismount just before an enemy’s attack lands to gain I-frames. This technique is particularly useful in fast-paced combat situations where you need to quickly reposition or avoid damage.
Timing the Dismount: To perform this maneuver successfully, you need to time the dismount precisely. As an enemy’s attack approaches, quickly dismount and watch as your character briefly becomes invulnerable to the incoming strike. After landing, you can immediately counterattack, giving you a moment to punish your enemies for their missed strike.
While the window for invincibility is short, it can be a game-changer in intense battles, particularly against fast-moving or aggressive enemies in both the base game and the DLC content.
2. War Ashes and Weapon Skills Granting I-Frames
Another significant way to obtain I-frames is through War Ashes—special weapon skills that not only provide offensive capabilities but also grant defensive advantages, including invincibility frames. These skills can be crucial during intense combat scenarios, especially against powerful bosses or large groups of enemies. Here are some of the notable War Ashes that provide I-frames:
Quickstep
Description: Quickstep is a versatile ability that allows players to perform a swift dodge in a chosen direction. It’s perfect for players who prefer an agile playstyle and want to quickly close the distance between them and their enemies.
I-Frame Benefit: The skill grants a set of I-frames that make it easier to dodge incoming attacks while remaining mobile. This is especially useful against fast-moving enemies or during boss fights where dodging is essential.
Ideal Use: Quickstep is great for hit-and-run tactics. Use it to dodge enemy attacks while positioning yourself for a counterattack.
Hound Step
Description: Similar to Quickstep, Hound Step offers quick and agile movement. This skill is beneficial for players who want to stay stealthy and agile in combat, making it ideal for dodging and repositioning.
I-Frame Benefit: The I-frames granted by Hound Step allow you to evade attacks, making it easier to navigate through difficult fights, especially in dense enemy clusters or during high-stakes boss battles.
Ideal Use: Hound Step is particularly useful when trying to keep your distance from multiple enemies, or when navigating around the edges of a large boss arena.
Unyielding Vow
Description: For players who prefer a more defensive approach, Unyielding Vow offers both offensive and defensive benefits. It temporarily boosts your defensive stats and grants I-frames when activated.
I-Frame Benefit: This skill is perfect for those who need a little extra protection during combat. The I-frames offered by Unyielding Vow can help you avoid incoming attacks while also making you harder to hurt for a short period.
Ideal Use: Unyielding Vow is excellent for prolonged encounters where you need to absorb some hits but want to avoid certain lethal blows.
Mist Raptor
Description: Mist Raptor allows players to dash through enemies while gaining I-frames. This skill enhances mobility and lets you move through crowds of enemies with ease.
I-Frame Benefit: The I-frames granted by Mist Raptor allow you to pass through enemies unharmed, which is extremely useful when trying to escape tight situations.
Ideal Use: This skill is particularly effective when dealing with multiple enemies or trying to reposition in chaotic fights.
Hound Dexterity
Description: This skill is focused on agility and speed. Hound Dexterity enhances your ability to dodge while also boosting your damage output.
I-Frame Benefit: The I-frames provided by Hound Dexterity help you evade attacks while allowing you to maintain a fast pace, delivering high-damage strikes on the move.
Ideal Use: Use Hound Dexterity for a fast-paced, evasive combat style where you’re always on the move and never stationary.
Dynasty Mastery
Description: Dynasty Mastery is designed for players who want to keep the pressure on enemies while dodging their attacks. This skill grants I-frames while allowing you to continue dealing damage.
I-Frame Benefit: This skill combines offense and defense by allowing players to dodge while still maintaining a strong offensive presence.
Ideal Use: Dynasty Mastery is perfect for aggressive builds that prioritize constant damage output without sacrificing evasion.
Tips for Maximizing I-Frames in Elden Ring
Now that we’ve explored the various methods of obtaining I-frames in Elden Ring, let’s talk about how to incorporate these techniques into your gameplay for maximum effectiveness.
1. Master the Timing of Your I-Frames
One of the key aspects of using I-frames effectively is timing. Dodging, dismounting from Torrent, or activating weapon skills all require precise timing to avoid taking damage. It’s essential to learn enemy attack patterns and anticipate when to activate your I-frame abilities. Practice is crucial—spend time learning the attacks of bosses and enemies so that you can anticipate and avoid them more effectively.
2. Combine Different I-Frame Techniques
Don’t hesitate to combine different methods of acquiring I-frames. For instance, if you’re riding Torrent and approaching a boss’s attack, you can dismount at the perfect moment to gain invincibility. Then, immediately follow up with a Quickstep to reposition or attack. Combining techniques makes your evasive tactics more fluid and adaptable.
3. Experiment with Builds
The effectiveness of I-frames can vary depending on your build. If you favor a fast and agile combat style, focus on building around skills like Quickstep or Hound Dexterity. Alternatively, if you prefer a more defensive or tanky build, you might want to incorporate Unyielding Vow for added protection while dodging.
4. Use I-Frames for Aggressive Playstyles
I-frames aren’t just for defense—they can be used offensively as well. For example, using Dynasty Mastery allows you to dodge while maintaining pressure on your enemies. This type of build can be particularly rewarding during boss fights, where both offense and defense are required to maintain the upper hand.
5. Practice Your I-Frame Timing in the DLC Content
With the introduction of new enemies and mechanics in the Elden Ring DLC, there will be new opportunities to refine your I-frame strategy. DLC bosses tend to have varied attack patterns and can be unforgiving, so mastering the art of dodging and timing your I-frames will be key to surviving these encounters.
Conclusion – Dominating Combat with I-Frames
In Elden Ring, mastering the use of I-frames is an essential skill for surviving tough combat scenarios. While dodging remains the primary method of obtaining I-frames, the DLC content introduces several new techniques—such as Torrent’s dismount and various War Ashes—that can provide significant advantages in battle. By understanding the mechanics of I-frames, experimenting with different builds, and practicing your timing, you can enhance your survivability and elevate your combat strategy.
Whether you’re facing the game’s challenging bosses, navigating through hordes of enemies, or just trying to survive the brutal open-world environment, I-frames are a key to cheap Elden Ring Runes success. Use them wisely, and you'll be able to conquer even the toughest challenges Elden Ring has to offer.
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