Mastering the Parry: How Many Times Do You Need to Parry Radagon?

The answer is three. You need to successfully parry Radagon three times to break his poise and open him up for a critical riposte. This strategy, while risky, can significantly shorten the fight against this formidable boss in Elden Ring. Mastering the parry timing is crucial, but the payoff is immense. Let’s delve into the art of parrying Radagon and explore some related strategies and tips.

Understanding Radagon’s Parry Mechanics

Radagon’s moveset is diverse, incorporating both slow, telegraphed attacks and quick, unpredictable strikes. Not all of his attacks are parryable, but many of his melee strikes offer the opportunity. Identifying the parryable attacks is the first step. Look for attacks where his hammer connects directly with you, rather than generating shockwaves or elemental effects. These direct physical attacks are your prime targets for parrying.

The most consistent attacks to parry are usually his standard melee swings, especially those where he telegraphs his hammer coming down in a predictable arc. You’ll need a shield with the “Parry” skill. The Buckler is arguably the best choice due to its generous parry window. Once you have your shield, it’s all about timing. Watch Radagon’s movements closely and activate the Parry skill just before his weapon connects. A successful parry will deflect the attack and leave him momentarily vulnerable.

After three successful parries, Radagon will stagger, allowing you to perform a critical strike. Position yourself in front of him and press the critical attack button (usually R1/RB). The riposte deals significant damage, making parrying a viable strategy for skilled players.

Tips for Successful Parrying

• Practice Makes Perfect: Head to a lower-level area and practice parrying against enemies with similar attack patterns. This will help you internalize the timing.
• Observe Attack Animations: Pay close attention to Radagon’s stance and the wind-up of his attacks. Each attack has a unique tell that indicates when you should parry.
• Don’t Parry Everything: Some attacks, like his AOE ground slams or lightning-infused strikes, are better dodged. Focus on parrying his standard melee swings.
• Use a Light Load: A lighter equipment load allows for quicker dodging and more precise movement, which is crucial for positioning and reacting to Radagon’s attacks.
• Consider the Buckler: As mentioned earlier, the Buckler’s generous parry window makes it an excellent choice for parrying Radagon.
• Manage Your Stamina: Parrying consumes stamina, so avoid spamming the Parry skill. Time your parries carefully to avoid being caught with low stamina.
• Be Patient: Radagon is a tough opponent, and mastering the parry timing takes time and practice. Don’t get discouraged if you fail repeatedly at first.
• Experiment with Parry Frames: Experiment with different shields and talismans that increase parry frames to see what works best for you.
• Learn his Combos: Understanding the length of his combos can help you avoid parrying too early or too late.
• Mix Parries with Dodges: Don’t rely solely on parrying. Combine parries with well-timed dodges to avoid taking unnecessary damage.

FAQs: Radagon and Parry Strategies

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further enhance your understanding of Radagon and the strategies you can use to defeat him.

1. Can you parry all of Radagon’s attacks?

No, not all of Radagon’s attacks can be parried. Focus on parrying his standard melee swings, where he directly connects with his hammer. Attacks that generate shockwaves or elemental effects are generally unparryable.

2. What shield is best for parrying Radagon?

The Buckler is often considered the best shield for parrying due to its extended parry window. Other small shields can also work, but the Buckler provides the most forgiving timing.

3. Is parrying Radagon a viable strategy?

Yes, parrying Radagon is a viable strategy for skilled players. Successfully parrying three times will stagger him, allowing for a critical riposte that deals significant damage.

4. What are Radagon’s weaknesses?

Radagon is weak to fire damage. Weapons and spells that deal fire damage, such as the Blasphemous Blade and fire Incantations, can be very effective against him. He is also vulnerable to being staggered and having his poise broken.

5. Can Radagon be backstabbed?

No, Radagon cannot be backstabbed. However, he can be staggered and his poise broken through other means, such as parrying or using weapons that deal high poise damage.

6. What level should I be to fight Radagon?

It’s recommended to be around level 150 when fighting Radagon, with at least 40 points invested in Vigor to avoid being one-shotted.

7. Is Radagon resistant to bleed?

Yes, Radagon is highly resistant to most status effects, including bleed. Weapons that rely heavily on bleed damage may be less effective against him.

8. What is the best summon for fighting Radagon?

Black Knife Tiche is a popular choice for summoning against Radagon, as it can quickly close the distance and deal significant damage. Mimic Tear is another option, as it can mimic your build and provide valuable support.

9. What is the best weapon against Radagon?

Weapons that deal high poise damage, such as Colossal Greatswords and dual-wielded Katanas, are effective against Radagon. Weapons that deal fire damage are also highly recommended.

10. Can Radagon get scarlet rot?

Yes, Radagon is susceptible to scarlet rot, frostbite, and poison. While he is resistant, these status effects can still be applied with enough persistence.

11. What armor is best against the Elden Beast (the follow-up fight)?

The Crucible Tree Armor set is highly effective against holy damage, which is the primary damage type of the Elden Beast. It can be found in the Deeproot Depths.

12. Is the Elden Beast immune to status effects?

Yes, the Elden Beast is immune to all status effects in Elden Ring.

13. What damage is Elden Beast not immune to?

The Elden Beast is not immune to physical damage types, although it has high resistance to most elemental damage. Sorcery users should opt for high-poise-damage spells like Rock Sling to regularly stun the Elden Beast.

14. Why is Radagon so tall?

Radagon’s height is likely due to his lineage as a god and his connection to Queen Marika. His children, including Radahn, also inherited his large stature.

15. What does Marika and Radagon share?

Marika and Radagon share a single body. When the player finds Marika at the end of the game, she transforms into Radagon, revealing that they are one and the same. This plays a significant role in the game’s lore and story.

Beyond the Parry: Additional Strategies

While parrying is an effective strategy, it’s not the only way to defeat Radagon. Experiment with different builds, weapons, and strategies to find what works best for you. Consider using fire damage, exploiting his weaknesses, and managing your stamina effectively. Summoning a powerful Spirit Ash can also provide valuable support and distract him during the fight.

Remember that Radagon is just one part of the final boss encounter. After defeating him, you’ll face the Elden Beast, which requires a different set of strategies and tactics. Be prepared to adapt your approach and adjust your build accordingly.

Elden Ring is a complex and challenging game, but with practice, patience, and a willingness to experiment, you can overcome any obstacle. Whether you choose to parry Radagon to oblivion or rely on other strategies, the key is to understand his moveset, exploit his weaknesses, and never give up.

To delve deeper into the mechanics and lore of games, consider exploring resources like the Games Learning Society, which fosters research and understanding of game-based learning. You can find more information at GamesLearningSociety.org. Good luck, Tarnished, and may you achieve Elden Lord status!