The ultimate strategy for avoiding conflict is simply not to engage in it at all. However, if a confrontation is inevitable, then minimizing damage through effective evasion becomes paramount. This concept translates not only to real-life scenarios but also prominently features in numerous video games.
Dodging attacks can be challenging, and standing strong to absorb the blows is not always a viable strategy. Thus, players often turn to the art of parrying—a technique that allows them to deflect an enemy’s strikes and potentially destabilize their aggressor.
In various action games, parrying transforms from a mere defensive measure into an exciting tactical option that can disorient foes, whether accompanied by the satisfying sound of clashing weapons or a subtle near-miss.
1. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
The Definitive Parrying Experience
Most Soulslike games offer multiple defensive tactics, including dodging and blocking. Yet, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice demands that players master the art of parrying, elevating it beyond a simple choice—it becomes essential for survival.
In Sekiro, players must time their parry to the millisecond, ideally 200 milliseconds before the enemy strike lands. This precision not only mitigates damage but also erodes the opponent’s posture, setting them up for decisive retaliatory strikes.
While some heavy attacks require unique countermeasures, successful parries can force an enemy into a vulnerable position, emphasizing a combat style rooted in patience and tactical superiority.
2. Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance
Put Your Back Into It
In Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance, players control Raiden, a high-powered cyborg capable of executing devastating attacks. Timing is crucial when he retaliates against incoming attacks. By striking back at the ideal moment, Raiden can unbalance opponents and open them up for follow-up attacks in Blade Mode.
This mechanic introduces a learning curve, compelling players to master Raiden’s timing to orchestrate devastating combos against multiple foes.
3. Hi-Fi Rush
Parry On The Beat
Hi-Fi Rush incorporates rhythm into its combat, requiring players to time their actions with the game’s soundtrack. Chai can parry attacks on the beat, allowing him to reflect damage back at opponents, seamlessly integrating offensive and defensive mechanics.
This rhythmic combat experience extends to mini-games in battles against larger foes, where precision in timing can yield significant advantages, dramatically altering the battle’s outcome.
4. Nine Sols
Timing Is Everything
In the 2D realm of Nine Sols, Yi’s parry mechanism pushes players to execute near-perfect timing. An early or late attempt results in penalty, necessitating focused precision to avoid excessive damage.
As players progress, they can unlock advanced parrying abilities, allowing for enhanced defensive maneuvers that can counteract nearly any assault.
5. Lies Of P
Feel That Impact
The parry mechanics in Lies of P marry familiarity with innovation, presenting a rewarding challenge. Players can time their guard to absorb incoming attacks perfectly, nullifying damage altogether.
Unique to Lies of P is the ability to parry powerful strikes, a feature that enhances strategy and engages players. The audio and visual feedback accompanying perfect parries amplify the satisfaction of successfully avoiding harm.
6. Devil May Cry 5
“Royal Guard!”
Dante’s Royal Guard ability, which allows him to absorb attack energy and unleash it back at opponents, taps into the game’s reward system for skilled timing. Unlike traditional defensive maneuvers, this counter stance encourages strategic play, making it easier to dominate foes once mastered.
7. Sifu
With Your Bare Hands
Sifu introduces a layered defensive strategy encompassing blocks, parries, and dodges for varying types of attacks. Players must dynamically assess situations and choose the optimal method, fostering a fluid combat experience.
The capstone of the combat system is its simplicity and effectiveness, encouraging players to develop instinctual defensive habits and master the rhythm of combat to thrive.
8. Resident Evil 4 (2023)
You Can Parry A Chainsaw
The 2023 remake of Resident Evil 4 emphasizes parrying as a core mechanic. Players may now effectively deflect physical attacks using Leon’s knife, including the formidable chainsaw of Dr. Salvador. This exhilarating feature brings a dynamic edge to defensive gameplay.
9. On Guard!
Swashbuckler Style
En Garde captures the spirit of classic swashbuckling with a parry system that enhances its blade-based combat. Timing is key, as players must discern between different attack types and engage accordingly, making strategic parries essential for success against groups of foes.
10. Batman: Arkham City
Parry Three Dudes At Once
Batman: Arkham City showcases a refined parry system, allowing players to counter multiple attacks simultaneously. The clarity of the upbeat blue alerts signals opportunities for counterattacks, captivating a broad audience with its engaging combat mechanics and strategic depth.
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