Jumping attacks are a powerful offensive tool in Elden Ring, offering unique advantages in both open combat and against specific enemy types. Mastering their timing and application can significantly improve your damage output and create openings for critical hits.
What is a Jumping Attack?
A jumping attack is performed by pressing the jump button and then immediately pressing the light or heavy attack button. This allows your character to leap into the air and deliver a powerful strike upon landing. The type of attack (light or heavy) determines the animation and properties of the jump attack.
Advantages of Jumping Attacks
- Staggering Power: Jumping heavy attacks, in particular, have a high 'stance damage' or 'poise damage' component. This means they are very effective at breaking an enemy's guard or staggering them, leaving them vulnerable to a critical hit.
- Opening Up Enemies: Many enemies have predictable attack patterns. A well-timed jump attack can interrupt their actions or catch them as they recover from their own attacks.
- Mobility and Evasion: The jump itself can sometimes evade low-sweeping attacks or projectiles, allowing you to close distance or reposition while preparing an offensive move.
- Surprise Factor: Enemies may not always anticipate a sudden jump attack, making it a useful tool for initiating combat or surprising a distracted foe.
When to Use Jumping Attacks
- Against Heavily Armored Enemies: Enemies with high poise or heavy armor are prime targets for jump attacks, as they are more susceptible to being staggered.
- To Punish Openings: After an enemy finishes a long attack animation, a jump attack can be a safe and damaging way to punish their recovery.
- Initiating Combat: A jump attack can be a good way to start a fight, potentially staggering an enemy before they can react.
- Against Large Bosses: Many large bosses have weak points on their legs or bodies that can be targeted with jump attacks, often leading to a stagger.
Tips for Effective Jumping Attacks
- Timing is Key: Practice the timing of your jump attacks. You want to land the hit as you touch the ground for maximum effect.
- Jump Heavy Attacks: For most situations where you want to stagger an enemy, the jumping heavy attack is your go-to.
- Weapon Choice: Certain weapons, like greatswords and colossal weapons, have particularly devastating jumping attacks due to their inherent poise damage.
- Stamina Management: Jumping attacks consume stamina, so ensure you have enough to perform the attack and potentially dodge afterward.
Incorporating jumping attacks into your combat rotation can significantly enhance your effectiveness in Elden Ring. They are a versatile tool for dealing damage, breaking enemy poise, and creating crucial openings for devastating critical hits.