How to Parry Bloodborne: Mastering the Art of Combat
Bloodborne, the challenging action RPG developed by FromSoftware, is known for its fast-paced combat system. One of the key mechanics in the game is parrying, which allows players to deflect enemy attacks and counter with devastating blows. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of parrying in Bloodborne and provide you with the essential tips and strategies to master it.
What is Parrying in Bloodborne?
Before we dive into the meat of the article, let’s clarify what parrying is in Bloodborne. Parrying is a defensive mechanism that allows players to deflect an enemy’s attack by timing a well-placed dodge or block. When done correctly, parrying can be a game-changer, leaving enemies stunned and vulnerable to attacks. Parrying is not only essential for dodging attacks but also for building up health and momentum in combat.
Understanding the Parry Window
To parry an enemy attack, you’ll need to time your dodge or block within a specific window. This window is known as the parry window, and it’s crucial to understand its mechanics to successfully parry.
Here are the key factors to consider:
- Timing: The parry window is usually around 1-2 frames long, so you’ll need to time your dodge or block precisely.
- Direction: The parry window is specific to each attack, so you’ll need to focus on the direction of the attack to position yourself correctly.
- Attack pattern: Enemies have unique attack patterns, so you’ll need to learn their rhythms and react accordingly.
How to Parry in Bloodborne
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the step-by-step guide on how to parry in Bloodborne:
- Dodge: Use L1 + Circle (PS4) or Left Stick + A (Xbox) to dodge to the left or right.
- Block: Use R2 (PS4) or Right Trigger (Xbox) to block the attack.
- Timing: Time your dodge or block within the parry window, taking into account the attack’s direction and pattern.
Tips and Tricks for Parrying
Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you master the art of parrying:
- Focus on the enemy’s attack pattern: Learn each enemy’s attack pattern and react accordingly. Some enemies have predictable attacks, while others have more random patterns.
- Use your stamina wisely: Parrying can be exhausting, so make sure to conserve your stamina and use it strategically.
- Master your dodge: Practice your dodges to improve your timing and reflexes.
- Block when necessary: Blocking can be a useful secondary option when parrying, especially against slower-moving enemies.
Parrying Against Specific Enemies
Different enemies require different parrying strategies. Here’s a breakdown of how to parry against some of the most common enemies:
| Enemy | Parrying Strategy |
|---|---|
| Hunters | Dodge their initial grab attack, then parry their slash attack. |
| Wretches | Block their swinging attacks, then parry their head-butt attack. |
| Clerics | Parry their slow, sweeping attacks, then dodge their faster stab attacks. |
Conclusion
Parrying is a crucial aspect of Bloodborne’s combat system, and mastering it can give you a significant edge in combat. By understanding the parry window, timing your dodges and blocks, and using your stamina wisely, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a parrying pro. Remember to stay focused, adapt to each enemy’s attack pattern, and use your block as a secondary option. With practice and patience, you’ll be parrying like a pro in no time!
Additional Resources
For more Bloodborne tips and strategies, check out:
- Bloodborne Wiki for detailed enemy data and combat strategies.
- Bloodborne Subreddit for community discussions and tips.
- IGN’s Bloodborne Guide for detailed walkthroughs and combat strategies.