Patch 1.06 nerfed bleed. Patch 1.07 buffed frost sorceries. Where do these two status effects stand now? This comparison reflects the current state after all patches.
Bleed
Percentage HP damage on bosses
Strengths
- Still deals percentage HP damage on proc
- More weapon options with innate bleed
- Lord of Blood's Exultation + White Mask synergy intact
- Arcane scaling still strong
- Rivers of Blood still S-tier despite nerf
Weaknesses
- Buildup reduced in 1.06
- Seppuku nerfed
- Corpse Piler damage reduced
- Bleed-immune enemies unchanged
- Community perception worse than reality
VS
Frost
Damage amplification and versatility
Strengths
- 20% absorption debuff is universally strong
- Frost sorceries buffed in 1.07
- Can be reset with fire for multiple procs
- Cold infusion available on any standard weapon
- Works on more enemy types than bleed
Weaknesses
- Lower per-proc damage than bleed
- Frost-immune enemies exist
- Requires fire for optimal proc cycling
- Less dedicated gear synergy
- Fewer weapons with innate frost
Verdict
Post-patches, frost is arguably the better long-term investment — it was buffed while bleed was nerfed. But bleed still deals more total damage when it works. The best approach: have both available and use whichever the enemy is weaker to.