Mounted combat on your spectral steed, Torrent, offers a unique and dynamic way to engage with the world of Elden Ring. Mastering its mechanics allows for swift hit-and-run tactics, effective evasion, and the ability to tackle certain enemies and situations with greater ease.
Summoning and Dismounting Torrent
You can summon Torrent using the Spectral Steed Whistle, typically found early in the game. Dismounting can be done by pressing the same button or by performing certain actions like attacking or using an item. Torrent can be summoned and dismissed almost anywhere, except in specific indoor locations or boss arenas.
Basic Mounted Combat
While on Torrent, you gain access to a new set of combat options:
- Movement: Torrent offers superior mobility, allowing you to quickly close distances, circle enemies, or escape danger.
- Attacks: You can perform light and heavy attacks with your equipped weapon while mounted. These attacks often have a wider arc and can hit multiple enemies.
- Jumping Attacks: Torrent can also perform jumping attacks, which are particularly effective for dealing high poise damage.
- Spirit Ashes: You cannot summon Spirit Ashes while mounted.
When to Use Mounted Combat
- Against Large Groups of Enemies: Torrent's mobility and wide attack arcs make him excellent for dealing with multiple weaker foes.
- Hit-and-Run Tactics: For enemies with predictable but powerful attacks, you can ride in, land a few hits, and quickly retreat.
- Against Certain Field Bosses: Many open-world bosses are designed with mounted combat in mind. Their attack patterns can often be exploited by circling them on Torrent.
- Navigating Dangerous Areas: Torrent allows you to quickly traverse areas with environmental hazards or numerous enemies.
Mounted Combat Strategies
- Circle and Strike: The most common strategy is to circle your target on Torrent, waiting for an opening to attack, then quickly disengaging.
- Targeting Weak Points: Some enemies have specific weak points that are easier to hit from horseback.
- Utilize Jumping Attacks: Jumping heavy attacks from Torrent can quickly stagger many enemies, setting them up for a dismounted critical hit.
- Be Aware of Torrent's Health: Torrent has his own health bar. If he takes too much damage, he will be temporarily unavailable. You can heal him by using a Flask of Crimson Tears while mounted.
- Dismount for Criticals: While you can perform critical hits on horseback, it's often safer and more effective to dismount after staggering an enemy to perform the critical hit animation.
Limitations of Mounted Combat
- Cannot Use Spirit Ashes: This is a significant drawback, as Spirit Ashes are invaluable for drawing aggro.
- Limited Maneuverability in Tight Spaces: Torrent is less effective in confined areas or dense environments.
- Vulnerability to Certain Attacks: Some attacks, especially those with wide AoE or sweeping motions, can easily hit both you and Torrent.
Mounted combat is a vital aspect of Elden Ring's open-world des. By mastering Torrent's capabilities, you can significantly enhance your combat effectiveness and explore the Lands Between with greater confidence and speed.