In the vast, challenging world of Elden Ring, mastering combat techniques is essential for survival and success. One intriguing combat mechanic that has caught the attention of many players is the Vacuum Slice. This move is part of a skill set that can enhance a player’s offensive capabilities by combining speed, precision, and range. Vacuum Slice isn’t just a flashy attack it offers strategic advantages in both PvE and PvP situations, allowing players to control the battlefield and deal damage efficiently. Learning how to execute Vacuum Slice, when to use it, and how it fits into your build can significantly improve your overall gameplay experience.
What is Vacuum Slice?
Vacuum Slice is a weapon skill or combat ability in Elden Ring that generates a swift, slicing attack with a unique visual effect resembling a vacuum or shockwave moving forward. This skill propels a slashing arc toward enemies at a distance, allowing players to hit foes beyond melee range. The move is typically associated with specific weapons or ashes of war that grant this special skill, giving the wielder an edge in combat by blending speed with extended reach.
The distinct feature of Vacuum Slice is its ability to cover a wider area compared to regular slashes, making it effective for hitting multiple targets or controlling enemy positioning. This makes it valuable during mob encounters as well as duels against agile opponents.
How to Obtain and Use Vacuum Slice
To access the Vacuum Slice skill, players need to find certain weapons or ashes of war that come with this ability. Many players discover Vacuum Slice attached to katanas or curved swords, but it may also appear on other weapon types depending on updates or patches. Equipping the correct ash of war or weapon automatically grants access to the skill.
- Find a weapon or ash of war with Vacuum Slice as its unique skill.
- Equip the weapon or apply the ash of war at a blacksmith or site of grace.
- Use the skill by pressing the weapon skill button (usually L2/LT on controllers) while holding the weapon.
- Practice timing the attack to maximize its range and impact.
Effective use of Vacuum Slice requires good positioning and timing to ensure the attack hits enemies before they close the gap or dodge.
Strategic Advantages of Vacuum Slice
Vacuum Slice brings several benefits to combat in Elden Ring, making it a popular choice for many players aiming to balance offense and defense:
- Extended Reach: The vacuum effect projects the slash forward, allowing players to hit enemies at a distance without moving in too close.
- Fast Execution: The skill activates quickly, giving less time for opponents to react or block.
- Wide Hitbox: The sweeping arc covers more space than regular attacks, effective against groups of enemies.
- Interrupts Enemy Attacks: The quick strike can stagger foes or interrupt their combos, opening opportunities for follow-up attacks.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for PvE crowd control and PvP duels where mobility and quick bursts matter.
These advantages make Vacuum Slice a flexible skill to incorporate into many builds and playstyles.
Combining Vacuum Slice with Other Combat Techniques
To get the most out of Vacuum Slice, it’s important to combine it with other combat strategies and equipment:
- Pair with Fast Weapons: Vacuum Slice works well with weapons that have quick swings, allowing for rapid combos.
- Use with Buffs: Applying weapon buffs such as fire or magic can increase damage output when using Vacuum Slice.
- Dodge and Counter: Use Vacuum Slice immediately after dodging to catch enemies off guard.
- Follow Up with Charged Attacks: After Vacuum Slice hits, follow up with charged heavy attacks for maximum damage.
- Combine with Summons: Use spirit summons or allies to distract enemies while you attack from a distance with Vacuum Slice.
Strategically blending Vacuum Slice with your overall combat rhythm enhances your offensive capabilities and survivability.
Best Builds to Maximize Vacuum Slice
Players interested in optimizing Vacuum Slice typically focus on builds that emphasize Dexterity or a mix of Dexterity and Intelligence, depending on the weapon or ash of war involved. Here are some general build tips:
- High Dexterity: Many weapons that use Vacuum Slice scale well with Dexterity, improving attack power and skill effectiveness.
- Focus on Stamina: Managing stamina is key to using Vacuum Slice repeatedly without leaving yourself vulnerable.
- Enhance Mobility: Equip armor and talismans that improve movement speed and rolling to capitalize on Vacuum Slice’s hit-and-run potential.
- Use Magic or Buffs: Incorporate buffs that increase weapon damage or provide elemental effects to boost overall damage.
These build considerations help ensure you maximize the potential of Vacuum Slice in both solo play and multiplayer.
Tips for Mastering Vacuum Slice
To become proficient with Vacuum Slice, practice and patience are essential. Here are some useful tips:
- Practice timing against different enemy types to understand range and hitbox.
- Watch enemy attack patterns and use Vacuum Slice to punish openings.
- Use the skill to control space, forcing enemies to reposition or retreat.
- Don’t rely solely on Vacuum Slice mix it with standard attacks and defensive moves.
- Experiment with different weapons and ashes of war to find the version of Vacuum Slice that fits your style best.
Regularly practicing these strategies will build muscle memory and improve your combat effectiveness.
Vacuum Slice in Elden Ring is more than just a flashy skill it’s a versatile combat technique that offers extended reach, quick execution, and crowd control capabilities. By incorporating Vacuum Slice into your arsenal, you can enhance your combat strategy, deal damage from a safer distance, and maintain pressure on enemies in both PvE and PvP settings. Understanding how to obtain, use, and optimize Vacuum Slice with the right build and tactics will make you a more formidable warrior in the Lands Between. Whether you prefer fast-paced offensive plays or tactical engagements, Vacuum Slice provides a dynamic option to elevate your Elden Ring experience.