Ashen Combat: A how to

## Overview

Ashen is considered a "Souls-like", as it borrows many of the combat mechanics featured in Dark Souls and other From Software titles. For example, Ashen utilises almost the same stamina system as its predecessor. The stamina is naturally regenerating, but can be boosted by talisman/consumables, or reduced by armor, shield, or items. The stamina's max cap can also be altered by talisman and consumable Ashen Feathers. The lock on system is soft auto-aim for your weapons, but slowly tracks an enemy's dodges. The player may use blocks and dodges to avoid damage from enemies, though both cost stamina for every roll, block, or dip (backwards). This system makes it crucial to monitor your stamina level, dedicating some stamina towards dealing damage while saving some for hasty blocks or dodging.

## Stamina attacks

All attacks require some amount of stamina; light attacks cost less than heavy attacks. This is again amplified by the single-handed weapon costing less stamina per attack then the double-handed counterpart. General tips on using these weapons are as follows:

* **Single-handed light attacks**: Low stamina cost; good as 3-ofs, quickly rolling in, hitting thrice, and rolling out before taking damage.
* **Single-handed heavy attacks**: Medium stamina cost; mainly used as finishers, but with certain weapons come interesting tactics. The hammer weapons use the heavy attack as a huge area finisher with good results, while the hooked club uses a lunge attack then a roll back in just one heavy attack (effectively dodging retaliation).
* **Double-handed light attacks**: Medium stamina cost; huge amounts of damage for their costs, but in turn take time and precision.
* **Double-handed heavy attacks**: High stamina cost; extremely slow, but reward a hit with massive damage and even stun/knockdown.

## Lock-on System

It is recommended to leave this on for convenience as it's not always in use. The player should activate it when near enemies and then turn it off again (it auto-disengages when sprinting, or when far enough away from enemies). Generally speaking, lock-on is helpful when in combat against slower enemies, but is considered weaker against small/fast enemies that utilize dodges.

## Dodges and Blocks

Dodges and blocks are interchangeable overall, only difference being playstyle. Dodges require slightly less stamina, and give relief from the fight. The roll is effective at getting space while the backwards dodge is more useful for counterattacks. When an enemy is charging you the best plan of action is to charge them back, and then roll forward as they attack. You will dodge most attacks and even (with careful hesitation) their second attack, while giving you time to gain stamina as they waste theirs. The Block does require more stamina, but also wastes their stamina and in AOE attacks is quite useful as dodges won't save you. It is quite adept at blocking spears and preventing most any damage.

## Using Items

Consumables can be equipped to your Consumable hot bar. These consumables can heal you or apply a health or stamina regeneration bonus. Potions and items are great helps when adventuring away from a ritual stone. Use your Healing Gourd swigs wisely as they restore a lot and your goal is to use them effectively. Sometimes saving a last swig in a near dire situation when you're almost there. Other times using the last swig to survive and retreat is the right idea.

## Bosses (generalized)

In the end, the only real way to get better at combat is knowing how to fight, and putting it into action. Enemies are sometimes challenging when you are low on health or under-leveled. The bosses are a different story; if you can't beat one, then most likely it is your AI's fault. To find a match just turn off AI and wait for someone to join your game at the entrance to the dungeon. Use items and hold out to do little bits of damage until you win.

further reading:

* Ashen Combat Items
* Weaponry
* Items