Overview
Know when status damage is valuable and when to change plans.
How it works
This guide breaks the topic into the concrete decisions that matter in an actual playthrough, separating progression requirements from optional improvements.
How to approach it
Follow the stages in order, then use the linked character, region, boss and equipment references when you need more detail.
Common mistakes
Do not assume optional steps are mandatory or that all encounters remain unchanged after major story progression.
Status effects guide: bleed, frostbite, rot and poison: step by step
Build-up and triggering
Statuses build through repeated suitable attacks; a target usually needs to reach a threshold before the effect occurs. Different enemies can have different thresholds or immunities.
Bleed and frost
Bleed causes a burst when triggered on a susceptible target. Frostbite also changes the target’s state; a plan that depends entirely on chain procs can fail against resistant bosses.
Poison and rot
Damage-over-time status can reward sustained spacing if the target can be afflicted. Carry appropriate curing consumables when exploring rot-heavy regions.
Madness and other effects
Some status types have narrow applicability. Test the specific enemy category rather than assuming every status is universally useful.