What Can You Not Parry? A Comprehensive Guide to Unparryable Attacks
The thrill of a perfectly timed parry, the satisfying clang of steel against steel, and the vulnerability it creates in your opponent are core to the combat systems of many games and even real-world martial arts. However, understanding what you can’t parry is just as vital as knowing what you can. In essence, you cannot parry attacks that bypass the standard rules of engagement, whether due to their sheer size, inherent magical nature, or unconventional delivery. These often include massive attacks, magical effects that aren’t melee attack rolls, or simply attacks designed to be unblockable. Mastering the art of defense means recognizing these limits and adapting your strategy accordingly.
Understanding the Limits of Parry
Parrying is more than just blocking; it’s a precise, timed maneuver to deflect an incoming attack, leaving your enemy open to a counter. This precision is why certain types of attacks simply cannot be parried. Size matters, unconventional weaponry is tricky, and outright magical effects are generally off-limits. Let’s break down the categories of attacks that defy the parry.
The Size Factor
One of the most consistent limitations across various games and even real-world scenarios is the inability to parry attacks from overwhelmingly large opponents. Think colossal dragons, towering giants, or massive siege engines. The sheer force and momentum behind these attacks are simply too much to redirect with a standard parry. Attempting to parry such attacks usually results in staggering, significant damage, or even immediate defeat.
Unconventional Weaponry and Attacks
Certain weapons and attack types are designed to bypass traditional parrying techniques. This can include:
- Whips and Flails: The flexible and unpredictable nature of these weapons makes them incredibly difficult to parry. Their arc is irregular, and the force is distributed differently than a standard bladed weapon.
- Shield Bashes: While some games might allow parrying of a shield bash under specific circumstances, generally, the blunt force trauma delivered by a shield is considered unparryable.
- Grab Attacks: These involve the enemy physically seizing you, leaving no opportunity to parry.
- Unarmed Attacks from Certain Creatures: While a humanoid opponent’s punch might be parryable, good luck trying to parry a bear’s swipe.
Magical Attacks
Parrying spells is a tricky area that depends heavily on the rules and system.
- Melee Spell Attacks: If a spell involves a direct, physical attack with a weapon (like a magic sword), it might be parryable, so long as the game’s mechanics allow it.
- Area-of-Effect Spells: Spells that affect a wide area, like firestorms or magical explosions, are typically unparryable.
- Direct Damage Spells: Magic missiles or lightning bolts are usually considered unparryable because they are considered ranged attacks and don’t have a melee roll attack.
“Unblockable” Attacks
Some games feature attacks specifically designated as “unblockable.” These are often telegraphed with a distinct visual cue, like a red glow or a unique animation. They are designed to force the player to dodge, reposition, or interrupt the attacker rather than relying on a parry. This adds another layer of complexity.
FAQs: Expanding Your Parry Knowledge
Here are some frequently asked questions to further refine your understanding of what you can and cannot parry:
1. Can I parry any attack with any shield?
Not necessarily. While some games allow any shield to parry, the effectiveness can vary. Smaller shields might have a smaller parry window or higher stamina cost, making it harder to parry effectively. Some shields might not be able to parry certain types of damage at all.
2. Is a guard counter the same as a parry?
No, but they are related. A guard counter is a defensive move that typically follows a successful block and allows for an immediate counterattack. A parry is a more precise and timed maneuver that deflects the attack entirely, often creating a larger opening for a counter.
3. Can you parry with a light attack?
Rarely. Most games and martial arts systems require a dedicated parry action, often tied to a specific button or movement. However, some niche builds or unique weapon skills might allow for parrying with a light attack, but it’s the exception, not the rule.
4. Can a sword parry a bullet?
Theoretically, maybe, but practically, no. The speed and force of a bullet are far too great for a sword to effectively parry, even if the sword was incredibly sharp and the bullet was made of a soft metal.
5. Is it better to block or parry?
It depends on the situation. Blocking is a safer, more reliable defensive maneuver that reduces damage. Parrying is riskier but offers a much greater reward, creating an opening for a powerful counterattack.
6. Can I parry Malenia in Elden Ring?
Yes! Malenia, despite being a notoriously difficult boss, can be parried. In fact, skilled players have defeated her using only the parry mechanic. This showcases the power and versatility of parrying when mastered. However, her unique attacks and rapid pace make it a challenging feat.
7. Are colossal weapons parryable?
Most colossal weapons are not parryable when wielded with two hands in Elden Ring. However, some colossal weapons might be parryable when used one-handed, depending on the specific weapon and the game’s mechanics. Always test to know for sure.
8. How do you parry a Jedi (in games that allow it)?
Parrying in Star Wars games often involves hitting the “block” or “deflect” button just before an incoming blaster shot or lightsaber strike connects. A perfectly timed parry will deflect the projectile or blade back at the attacker, creating an opportunity for a counterattack.
9. Can you parry an unblockable attack?
No. By definition, unblockable attacks cannot be blocked or parried. The only way to avoid damage from these attacks is to dodge, reposition, or interrupt the attacker.
10. Can you parry a spell?
It depends on the type of spell. If the spell involves a melee spell attack (like a magical sword strike), then it might be parryable. However, spells like fireballs, lightning bolts, or area-of-effect spells are typically unparryable.
11. Can you parry an abomination?
This depends on the game’s mechanics and the specific abomination. Some games might allow you to parry certain attacks from abominations, especially those involving physical weapons. However, attacks like grabs, bites, or special abilities are likely unparryable.
12. Can a dagger parry?
Yes, especially if it’s a specialized parrying dagger. These daggers are designed with a wider guard and other defensive features to better protect the hand and effectively deflect incoming attacks.
13. Can a shield deflect bullets?
Yes, a ballistic shield is specifically designed to stop or deflect bullets and other projectiles. These shields are used by law enforcement, military, and other security personnel.
14. Can an axe parry a sword?
Yes, an axe can parry a sword, particularly if the sword strikes the metal portion of the axe. However, it’s not an ideal parrying weapon due to the axe’s weight and balance, which can make precise deflections difficult.
15. Can you parry every enemy in a game?
No. As a general rule, enemies that are extremely large, non-humanoid, or use unconventional attack methods are typically unparryable. For instance, you might be able to parry a soldier, but not a giant bat.
The ability to parry separates a novice from a master in combat whether its in real life or in video games. Knowing what can not be parried makes you a grand master.
You can learn more about how games impact learning at the Games Learning Society website, GamesLearningSociety.org.