Defeating the Blood-Starved Beast in Old Yharnam is a major milestone for Bloodborne players, as it officially opens up the game world significantly. After surviving the toxic onslaught of this optional boss, hunters are often left wondering where to direct their steps next. Fortunately, slaying this creature unlocks multiple paths, essential progression triggers, and secret zones throughout Yharnam.

Exploring the Healing Church Workshop

Returning to Oedon Chapel in Cathedral Ward reveals that a previously locked door on the right side has finally opened. Taking the elevator inside leads directly to the Healing Church Workshop, a vertical tower area filled with deadly enemies and valuable loot. Players can explore the top levels for weapon upgrades or carefully drop down through the inner wooden beams to reach the streets below.

Bypassing the Cathedral Gates

Descending through the bottom of the Healing Church Workshop leads to an elevator back up into the main Plaza of Cathedral Ward. This route allows players to pull a lever opening the massive iron gates without having to spend 10,000 Blood Echoes on the Hunter Chief Emblem. Checking in on daily gaming news can help players discover hidden progression shortcuts and optimal leveling strategies across classic action RPGs.

Venturing Into Hypogean Gaol

After vanquishing the Blood-Starved Beast, terrifying new enemies known as Snatchers spawn in key locations around Cathedral Ward. Allowing one of these sack-wielding foes to defeat you will trigger a cutscene that transports your hunter to Hypogean Gaol, an eerie underground prison. This early visit gives access to powerful blood stone shards, unique armor sets, and an optional encounter with Darkbeast Paarl.

Challenging Vicar Amelia in the Grand Cathedral

With the main gates of Cathedral Ward unlocked, players can ascend the long stone staircase toward the Grand Cathedral. Here awaits Vicar Amelia, a key boss who guards the password necessary for main story progression. Defeating Amelia unlocks access to the Forbidden Woods, ensuring your journey continues smoothly through the broader nightmare of Yharnam.