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How to Backstab

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A backstab is a combat mechanic that a player can perform on certain humanoid enemies. Read on to learn more about backstabs and how to perform them!

List of Contents

What is a Backstab?

A Type of Critical Attack

A staple from other Souls games, backstabs are a type of critical attack that the player can perform on humanoid enemies that are around their height.

These can be performed with almost any weapon, though they are exceptions.

How to Perform a Backstab

Player Must Be Behind the Enemy

Backstab Behind Enemy.jpg

You need to make sure you are aligned directly behind the enemy in order to perform a backstab.

Once you're sure you're directly behind them, press and hold R1.

If done correctly, this will play a different animation than a basic attack and will either kill the enemy outright or down them.

Cannot be Performed with Shield

It should be noted that you cannot perform backstabs with weapons equipped to your left hand.

This will merely just play the normal attack animation.

Best Used to Take out Isolated Enemies

Backstab Enemy Elden Ring.jpg

Trying to pull a backstab off in a group of enemies isn't impossible, but may be difficult due to the sheer number.

The backstab works best in picking off enemies that are placed apart from each other, where you can pick them off one by one.

Elden Ring Related Guides

Elden Ring Tips and Tricks

Beginner's Guide: All Tips and Tricks

Tips and Tricks

Tips for Beginners
Character Creation Guide Best Starting Keepsakes
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What Happens When You Die? -
General Tips and Tricks
How to Leave a Boss Fight How to Pause the Game
How to Get to The Roundtable Hold How to Respec
How to Increase Memory Slots How to Alter Garments
How to Make Hostile NPCs Friendly All Walking Mausoleum Locations
How to Write Messages What To Do When You Can't Summon (Co-Op)
All Weather Effects -
Exploration Tips
How to Use Sites of Grace How to Use Stakes of Marika
How to Fast Travel How to Use Summon Pool Stakes
Day and Night Cycle Differences How to Change Time
All Illusory Wall Locations All Painting Locations and Rewards
How to Get Into the Academy of Raya Lucaria How to Get to Nokron
All Portals and Teleport Locations All Imp Statue Locations and Rewards
Movement and Combat Tips
How to Sprint How to Parry
How to Guard Counter How to Backstab
Hidden Combat Mechanics -

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