Madness stuns players and deals damage. Bleed chunks percentage HP. Both are terrifying in PvP. But which is actually better for winning duels and invasions?
Madness
Crowd control and one-shot setups
Strengths
- Stuns opponent for a free follow-up hit
- Frenzied Burst has sniper range
- Howl of Shabriri hits multiple opponents
- Stun + follow-up can one-combo kill
- Less common, so opponents are less prepared
Weaknesses
- Only works on Tarnished (players)
- Zero PvE utility against non-player enemies
- Requires Faith AND Arcane investment
- Frenzy incantations have long windups
- If madness doesn't proc, you're vulnerable
VS
Bleed
Consistent percentage damage
Strengths
- Hemorrhage deals guaranteed percentage HP damage
- Works passively through normal combat
- Many fast weapons build bleed naturally
- Lord of Blood's Exultation damage boost on proc
- Doesn't require specific incantation loadout
Weaknesses
- Opponents can equip Bloodbane Talisman
- Nerfed in 1.06
- Bleed buildup can be outpaced by healing
- Hemorrhage doesn't stun like madness
- Very common, so opponents know how to counter
Verdict
Madness is better for burst kills and invasions — the stun creates guaranteed follow-up damage. Bleed is better for sustained dueling — the passive buildup adds damage without committing to specific incantations. Use madness for ambush playstyles, bleed for aggressive pressure.