Mastering the Art of Counterattacks in Dead Island 2

Counterattacking is a crucial skill for survival in the zombie-infested streets of Hell-A in Dead Island 2. It’s not enough to simply swing wildly; knowing when and how to counterattack can turn the tide of even the most desperate encounters. The core of the counter system revolves around timing your defensive moves to exploit enemy attacks, creating openings for powerful strikes.

How Counterattacks Work in Dead Island 2

The fundamental mechanic involves either a perfectly timed block or dodge just as a melee attack from a zombie is about to land. Successful execution of this timing will stun the attacking zombie, briefly immobilizing it. A button prompt will then appear above the stunned enemy, usually either Square on PlayStation or X on Xbox. Pressing this button will initiate a savage counterattack animation where your Slayer delivers a significant blow, often dealing extra damage or creating a knockdown.

The specific mechanics are as follows:

• Timing is Key: The block or dodge needs to be precisely timed, just as the enemy’s attack is connecting. Early or late attempts will result in a normal block/dodge or even a missed counter opportunity.
• Stun State: When timed correctly, the enemy becomes stunned, clearly indicated by a momentary pause in its animations and a brief highlight.
• Button Prompt: A visual button prompt (Square/X) will appear. This indicates that a counterattack is available.
• Counter Animation: Pressing the indicated button triggers a unique counter animation, causing significant damage to the enemy.

Blocking vs. Dodging for Counters

While both blocking and dodging can trigger a counterattack, blocking is generally more reliable for initiating counters. Here’s a breakdown:

• Blocking: When using characters who have block abilities (like Carla or Ryan) pressing LB on Xbox or L1 on PlayStation allows for a fairly straightforward block. With precise timing, this block can stun enemies and display the counter prompt.
• Dodging: Dodging in Dead Island 2 is performed by pressing the LB or L1 button while moving the left control stick. While it is great for evasion, only certain enemy attacks trigger a stunned state when successfully dodged, making it less predictable and potentially less rewarding for setting up counters. It can also sometimes require a brief second or two for the counter prompt to appear after a successful dodge. This small delay can be fatal when facing a horde.
  • Dodging does offer some advantages, mainly greater mobility. If you are struggling with your timing for a block, sometimes getting out of the way and creating some space to reassess is a good idea. However, if your primary goal is to set up a counter, blocking is likely a better choice for most players.

The Advantages of Counterattacking

Mastering the counter system provides numerous advantages:

• Damage Boost: Counterattacks deal significantly more damage than standard attacks, enabling you to take down tough zombies more efficiently.
• Crowd Control: Knockdowns from counterattacks provide invaluable crowd control, giving you breathing room in chaotic situations.
• Momentum Shift: A successful counterattack can break the rhythm of an enemy assault, turning a defensive posture into an offensive opportunity.
• Reduced Incoming Damage: By stunning enemies, you temporarily eliminate a threat, reducing the amount of incoming damage in close encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I dodge in Dead Island 2?

You can dodge in Dead Island 2 by pressing the LB/L1 button while simultaneously moving the left control stick in the desired direction. This allows you to quickly evade zombie attacks.

2. Why can’t I block in Dead Island 2?

Some characters, such as Amy and Bruno, do not have a block ability by default. You need to have the right skill card equipped for blocking. If your character can block, press LB (Xbox) or L1 (PlayStation) to use this defensive skill.

3. Can any character block?

No, only certain characters have the ability to block attacks, while others can dodge attacks by default. Characters like Carla or Ryan can block, while Amy and Bruno can dodge.

4. What is the best character to pick for a beginner?

Jacob is generally considered the best character for beginners in Dead Island 2. He possesses well-rounded abilities that are easy for new players to grasp.

5. Is blocking better than dodging for counters?

Yes, blocking is generally more reliable for triggering the stun required for a counterattack. While dodging can be useful for evading, it doesn’t always create the perfect openings for a counter.

6. What weapons are best for counters?

There isn’t a single weapon that’s inherently better for counters, as the system is tied to timed dodges and blocks, not weaponry. However, faster weapons, such as knives and swords, can be used in the counterattack animations, which allows you to quickly switch back to defensive.

7. What is Fury Mode and how does it relate to counters?

Fury Mode is a powerful state in which your character becomes temporarily more potent. It’s activated by pressing both analog sticks (console) or G (PC) when the Fury Meter is full. While Fury Mode doesn’t directly affect counterattacks, it allows you to take advantage of counter opportunities and maximize their effectiveness through enhanced damage output.

8. Can you counter multiple zombies at once?

While you can’t counter multiple enemies with a single counter animation, the well timed stun of one can open a safe window to dodge and then block to set up another counter, quickly turning the tables on a large crowd.

9. Can you drive cars in Dead Island 2?

No, there are no driveable vehicles in Dead Island 2.

10. What skills complement counterattacks?

Skills that increase damage output and critical hit chance can synergize effectively with counterattacks. Look for skills that boost your melee damage, as counterattacks fall under this type of damage.

11. What should I do if I can’t seem to time my blocks or dodges correctly?

Practice makes perfect! Try focusing on the enemy’s animations and look for the wind-up before the attack connects. Timing your dodge or block within that brief window will lead to a stun. Also, make sure you are using a character that can block, if you are trying to use that to trigger counters. If you are finding blocking too hard for the attack speed, try and learn to dodge instead.

12. Is Drop Kick or Flying Kick better?

Drop Kick is generally considered superior to Flying Kick. It’s more powerful, creates space, and is great for crowd control and momentum.

13. How do you initiate a drop kick?

To execute a drop kick, sprint, jump, and then click in the right analog stick.

14. What level should I fight The Butcher in Dead Island 2?

The Butcher is not a creature in Dead Island 2. You may be confusing this with the Diablo games. In Dead Island 2, there are other strong, special zombies to watch out for, such as Crushers and Screamers.

15. Can I change my character mid-game?

No, you cannot change your character mid-game in Dead Island 2. Choose your Slayer wisely at the start of your playthrough, as their innate abilities and stats will influence your playstyle.

By mastering the timing and nuances of the counterattack system, you’ll be much better equipped to survive the zombie-infested streets of Hell-A and take on even the toughest of foes in Dead Island 2. Remember, practice makes perfect!