Damn. I've been so out of touch when it comes to these kind of games that it didn't even occur to me to change weapons to gain the upper hand in the fight. Then again, the fact that I'm still getting used to the long sword is indication that I should probably not jump around just yet
Great in depth post, man.
I like to have a melee weapon and a range weapon if i want to keep my distance (especially if the monster is insanely strong)