Bleed builds in Elden Ring have become a dominant force, especially in both PvP and PvE scenarios. Thanks to the Hemorrhage status effect, which deals a percentage of an enemy’s max HP upon buildup, Bleed-centric builds are capable of shredding even the tankiest bosses or players in seconds. If you're looking to maximize your damage output using the Bleed mechanic, here's a breakdown of the top 10 builds tailored to that purpose.
Whether you’re looking to experiment with Arcane scaling or dual-wield katanas, these builds offer a strong foundation. Many of them are best complemented when you invest early, and if you're short on resources, you can always buy Elden Ring runes or buy Elden Ring items to jumpstart your progression.
1. Rivers of Blood Katana Build
Arguably the most iconic Bleed weapon in Elden Ring, the Rivers of Blood katana excels in mid-range aggression. Its special weapon art, Corpse Piler, unleashes a rapid flurry that inflicts heavy Bleed buildup and solid fire damage. Pair this with high Arcane and Dexterity to unleash devastating combos.
Best With: White Mask, Lord of Blood’s Exultation, Seppuku (off-hand weapon)
2. Dual Nagakiba Build
Nagakiba offers incredible range for a katana, and when dual-wielded with Seppuku applied on both weapons, it becomes a monster in both PvE and PvP. This build focuses on Dexterity and Arcane for maximum Bleed procs.
Recommended Strategy: Mix in jumping attacks and use blood-infused affinities.
3. Ghiza’s Wheel Strength Bleed Build
If you enjoy big weapons with big impact, Ghiza’s Wheel is your go-to Bleed option. This colossal weapon delivers massive Hemorrhage buildup and can be enhanced with Talismans to push damage even further.
Stat Focus: Strength and Arcane. Works well with heavy armor for poise trading.
4. Reduvia Dagger Build
This early-game Arcane-scaling dagger is deceptively powerful. Reduvia’s Blood Blade skill gives it ranged pressure, which is especially helpful against evasive players in PvP.
Tips: Use dual Reduvia for aggressive play and stack Arcane to accelerate Bleed effects.
5. Dual Curved Swords with Blood Affinity
Twinblades like Scavenger’s Curved Sword or Bandit’s Curved Sword, when dual-wielded and blood-infused, apply Bleed at an incredible rate. This build thrives on fast, relentless pressure.
Pro Tip: Combine with Rotten Winged Sword Insignia and Thorny Cracked Tear for stacking damage.
6. Moghwyn’s Sacred Spear Build
Moghwyn’s weapon skill, Bloodboon Ritual, covers a wide area and applies Hemorrhage quickly. It scales well with Arcane and is particularly effective in crowd-control scenarios or when farming.
Ideal Use Case: PvE farming and AoE engagements. You may want to buy Elden Ring runes if you're farming for specific upgrade levels.
7. Claws Bleed Build (Hookclaws or Raptor Talons)
Claws are excellent for rapid-hit Bleed builds. With high mobility and jump attack boosts, this setup is designed for players who enjoy a fast, agile playstyle.
Enhancements: Use Raptor’s Black Feathers for a boost to jumping attacks.
8. Blood Uchigatana Build
Accessible early and extremely versatile, the Uchigatana can be upgraded and customized for Blood affinity. With Seppuku and a high Arcane investment, this build is consistent from start to finish.
Synergy: Combine with Bleed Ashes of War like Bloody Slash for effectiveness.
9. Dexterity/Arcane Twinblade Build
The Eleonora’s Poleblade is a stylish twinblade that mixes Bleed and fire. Its unique skill has great tracking and quick hits that almost guarantee Hemorrhage within seconds.
Great Against: Fast-moving enemies or invaders due to its speed and style.
10. Hybrid Magic Bleed Build (Swarm of Flies + Melee)
Swarm of Flies is a Blood incantation that applies Bleed from range. Paired with a weapon like the Blood Uchigatana or Reduvia, this build is ideal for players who like mixing melee with magic.
Stat Spread: Focus on Arcane, Mind, and Vigor. It’s wise to buy Elden Ring items like FP-boosting Talismans for this playstyle.
Bleed builds offer a potent combination of speed, style, and raw power. Whether you’re going solo against a major boss or diving into invasions, these setups provide both damage and thrill. And if you’re looking to experiment without grinding, you can always buy Elden Ring runes or buy Elden Ring items to streamline your build and focus on the gameplay.
Bleed remains one of the most satisfying and effective mechanics in Elden Ring. Try out a few of these builds and find which one suits your approach to the Lands Between.
