
Combat encounters in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 are perilous, and with Henry’s journey at stake, mastering various battle techniques becomes crucial for survival. One game-changing technique is the Master Strike, which, when executed skillfully, can significantly shift the balance of a fight in your favor.
Acquiring the Master Strike skill enhances your swordfighting capabilities, providing a strategic advantage and potentially saving you from frustrating reloads after an untimely demise. It is undoubtedly one of the most effective techniques Henry can acquire, and understanding how to employ it is imperative for success in the game.
Unlocking Master Strike in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

To unlock the coveted Master Strike technique, players must first complete the Laboratores quest—secured once they reach Troskowitz. Following Henry’s critical confrontation with local guards and tavern patrons, head over to speak with Bara, who can be found near the guardhouse entrance. Engage her in conversation until she introduces you to Tomcat, a renowned swordmaster.

Tomcat is located with a group of Romani nomads just west of Troskowitz, beyond the ridge that lies behind Bozhena’s hut. After conversing with him and acquiring fundamental swordfighting techniques, he agrees to teach you the Master Strike—but only if you can defeat him in a duel.
Be forewarned: this duel may present a significant challenge. At this early stage of the game, Tomcat possesses a formidable offensive style, dealing heavy damage in quick succession. Players often find themselves lacking the stamina, health, or overall damage output to win this encounter. If defeated, you’ll emerge from the duel with your health drastically depleted. Thus, consider returning to this duel later or practicing until you can effectively read his fighting patterns.
If you’re intent on challenging Tomcat, a strategic approach would be to exhaust him first—utilize Perfect Blocking without riposting, and incorporate the sword combos he previously taught you to gain an edge.
Using Master Strikes

A Master Strike serves as an unblockable counter-attack exclusive to sword combat, whether using a long or short sword, and is regarded as one of the most effective fighting techniques in KCD 2. To execute a Master Strike, ensure your guard is positioned opposite your opponent’s stance, then make your move when the green shield icon becomes visible. This action allows Henry to parry the enemy’s attack, seamlessly transitioning into an unblockable counter-strike.
Additionally, players can perform a Master Strike immediately following a Perfect Block. Timing is critical here; the window for executing a Master Strike aligns closely with the timing for a Perfect Block, but it’s essential to maintain proper sword positioning—your weapon must be directed opposite to your opponent’s weapon for success.
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