Bloodborne Gehrman Boss Guide: Defeat the First Hunter
Master the Bloodborne Gehrman boss fight with expert strategies, attack breakdowns, and tips to defeat the First Hunter. Get the latest guide now!
Published: Bloodborne Wiki Editorial Team
Table of Contents
Introduction to the Final Confrontation
Facing bloodborne gehrman at the end of FromSoftware's masterpiece is the ultimate test of every skill you have acquired throughout the night of the hunt. This emotional and brutal encounter determines the fate of the Hunter's Dream, making victory essential for unlocking specific game conclusions. Understanding his mechanics will mean the difference between a triumphant awakening and endless torment.
Tip
Listen closely to the haunting arrangement of Gehrman, The First Hunter soundtrack as you fight; community report data suggests that staying in sync with the rhythm helps players time their dodges against his fluid weapon transitions.
Phase 1: Mastering the Scythe and Mobility
During the opening phase, bloodborne gehrman wields the Burial Blade in its two-handed scythe form, delivering sweeping attacks with deceptive reach. When he drags the blade along the ground, he is preparing a powerful upward slash that can catch rolling players. You must resist the urge to spam attacks, as his poise allows him to hyper-armor through light weapon strikes.
Attack Type
Danger Level
Recommended Counter-Strategy
Scythe Sweep
Moderate
Dodge forward and to the right to bypass the hitbox.
Overhead Slam
High
Sprint behind him immediately for a charged backstab.
Wind-up Dash
Severe
Parry with your firearm just as he reaches the apex of his dash.
According to player experience reports, gun parrying is your most reliable tool in this phase. Shoot him right as he begins his forward dash to trigger a visceral attack. Additionally, when he transitions to his one-handed curved sword and blunderbuss stance, his attack speed increases dramatically, requiring you to rely on quick side-steps rather than slow rolls.
Phase 2: The Power of the Moon
Once his health pool drops significantly, bloodborne gehrman will emit a massive shockwave that buffs his attacks with arcane wind pressure and grants him the ability to teleport. This phase is characterized by relentless aggression and aerial dive-bombs.
Run from the AOE: Immediately sprint backward when he begins charging his glowing white aura to avoid the staggering explosion.
Track the Teleport: Watch for shimmering mist on the ground to predict where he will reappear behind you.
Punish Recovery Frames: Strike him twice with a fast weapon immediately after he completes his aerial dive attack, then retreat.
During this frantic phase, maintaining your lock-on while managing the camera can be challenging. If you need a refresher on the game's official merchandise and platform details, you can visit the PlayStation Store Bloodborne Page to check compatibility and community highlights.
Recommended Build and Equipment Comparison
Preparation is just as important as mechanical execution. Equipping the right attire and runes will mitigate the heavy physical and arcane damage dealt by bloodborne gehrman.
Gear Category
Best Choice
Alternative Option
Primary Benefit
Garb Set
Charred Hunter Garb
Crowfeather Set
High physical and fire defense
Caryll Rune
Great Lake
Clawmark
Boosts overall damage reduction
Firearm
Hunter Pistol
Evelyn
Faster bullet travel speed for reliable parries
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you summon help for the bloodborne gehrman fight?
Yes, you can summon other players for assistance if you have not yet triggered the subsequent secret ending boss, depending on your multiplayer progression.
What is the best weapon to use against bloodborne gehrman?
Fast serrated weapons like the Saw Cleaver excel in this fight due to their quick recovery frames and bonus damage against beast-like or humanoid foes when transformed.
How do I unlock the fight with bloodborne gehrman?
You must refuse the offer at the end of the game after defeating Mergo's Wet Nurse, assuming you have consumed three Third Cords if you wish to fight the secret final boss afterward.
Why is bloodborne gehrman considered one of the best bosses?
The narrative weight, paired with the brilliant musical score and a balanced duel of hunters, makes bloodborne gehrman a pinnacle of action RPG design.
