Mastering the Parry: A Comprehensive Guide to Parryable Objects in Cuphead

In the whimsical yet challenging world of Cuphead, the parry mechanic is your best friend. It’s not just a defensive maneuver; it’s a key strategy for building your super meter and even triggering special effects. But what exactly can you parry? The general rule of thumb is: anything pink is parryable. However, like any good rule, there are nuances and exceptions. From projectiles to character-specific attacks, this guide will arm you with the knowledge to become a parry master in Cuphead.

The Golden Rule: If It’s Pink, Parry It!

At its core, the parry system in Cuphead revolves around the color pink. Any object or enemy attack highlighted in this vibrant hue is fair game for a parry. This includes a wide array of projectiles, character features, and even environmental elements. Executing a parry involves pressing the jump button a second time while airborne and in contact with the parryable object. A successful parry not only negates the damage but also fills your super meter, which is essential for unleashing powerful special attacks.

Exceptions and Nuances to the Parry Rule

While the “pink equals parry” rule holds true most of the time, there are a few exceptions and nuances to keep in mind:

• Ghost Revivals: When playing co-op, you can parry your fallen teammate’s ghost to revive them with one health point. While this is a valuable maneuver, it does not contribute to your super meter.

• Character-Specific Abilities: Some characters, like Ms. Chalice, have unique parry mechanics. Ms. Chalice parries during her dash, allowing for more precise and versatile parries compared to Cuphead and Mugman’s traditional jump-parry.

• Objects that Don’t Build Super Meter: Not every parryable object will fill your super meter. For example, the co-op revival parry and certain enemy attacks may grant invincibility frames but won’t contribute to your special meter. This is rare, but important to remember.

Character-Specific Parryable Attacks

Many bosses in Cuphead feature specific attacks that are designed to be parried. Knowing these attacks is crucial for maximizing your super meter and gaining an edge in battle.

• Sal Spudder (The Root Pack): This irate potato shoots three dirt clumps followed by a pink worm. The worm is parryable and provides a significant boost to your super meter.

• Ribby and Croaks: Certain attacks from this boxing frog duo are pink and parryable. Identifying these attacks can significantly simplify the fight.

• Cagney Carnation: Look for parryable objects during this floral frenzy. Successfully parrying these objects can help you navigate the chaotic boss fight and build your super meter quickly.

• Grim Matchstick: Watch for parryable fireballs during this dragon’s aerial assault. Parrying these projectiles is essential for surviving his relentless attacks.

• Werner Werman: The parryable corks that are shot from Werner Werman’s soup cans will fill your super meter!

• Chef Saltbaker: Chef Saltbaker often features a parryable item that will fill your super meter.

Helpful Charms for Parrying

Several charms can enhance your parrying abilities and make the game easier:

• P. Sugar: This charm automates the parry process, making you parry automatically when you jump. This is particularly useful for challenging parry sequences or when dealing with multiple parryable objects simultaneously.

• Smoke Bomb: While not directly related to parrying, the Smoke Bomb provides invincibility during dashes, making it easier to avoid damage while positioning yourself for a parry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you parry anything that is pink in Cuphead?

Yes, the general rule is that any object or enemy attack that is pink can be parried in Cuphead. However, there are a few exceptions, like reviving a co-op player’s ghost, which doesn’t build your super meter.

2. Does parrying always fill the super meter?

Most parryable objects will increase your super meter, but there are exceptions. For example, parrying a co-op partner’s ghost to revive them does not build your super meter.

3. How does Ms. Chalice parry differently?

Ms. Chalice has a unique parry mechanic. Instead of pressing the jump button to parry, she parries during her dash. This allows for more precise and versatile parries, making her a popular choice for many players.

4. What is the Parry Slap?

The Parry Slap is the game mechanic that allows players to parry pink objects. It requires pressing the jump button again while already jumping, when contacting a pink object.

5. What is P. Sugar, and how does it help with parrying?

P. Sugar is a charm that makes your character automatically parry when you jump. This is very useful for bosses with parryable objects in difficult locations, like Ribby and Croaks and Cagney Carnation.

6. Can you parry the worm in the Sal Spudder fight?

Yes, the pink worm that Sal Spudder shoots after the three dirt clumps can be parried. This is a good way to build your super meter during this fight.

7. Can you parry the tongue in the Hilda Berg fight?

Yes, Hilda Berg’s tongue is pink, so it can be parried. However, it’s very fast and not recommended to parry in her first form.

8. What happens when you parry another player’s ghost in co-op mode?

Parrying another player’s ghost will revive them with one health point. It’s a crucial strategy for staying alive in co-op mode, but it won’t fill your super meter.

9. Is Ms. Chalice considered cheating?

No, Ms. Chalice is not considered cheating. She provides a different playstyle with her unique abilities, but she is an intended part of the game.

10. How do you parry the potato in the Root Pack fight?

You parry the pink worm that Sal Spudder shoots after the three dirt clumps. Jump over the dirt and press the jump button again to parry the worm.

11. What is the best way to practice parrying in Cuphead?

A great way to practice parrying is to revisit early levels with parryable objects. Focus solely on parrying each object to refine your timing and technique. The Games Learning Society emphasizes the importance of practicing fundamental skills, a principle that applies perfectly to mastering parrying in Cuphead. You can learn more about effective learning strategies at GamesLearningSociety.org.

12. Are there any bosses where parrying is essential for survival?

While parrying is always helpful, some bosses, like Grim Matchstick and Werner Werman, have attacks where parrying is almost essential for survival and building your super meter.

13. Can you parry the eels in the Cala Maria boss fight?

The eels themselves cannot be parried, but you need to be careful to avoid being turned to stone during this fight, as Cala can shoot rays that turn you to stone into Medusa.

14. What are the benefits of parrying in Cuphead?

Parrying in Cuphead offers several benefits, including:

• Negating damage from enemy attacks.
• Filling your super meter.
• Triggering special effects (like reviving a co-op partner).
• Gaining an edge in challenging boss fights.

15. Does Cuphead turn evil if you make the wrong choices?

In one of the game’s endings, the Cuphead brothers are tricked by the devil into becoming his servants (which is the bad ending).

Final Thoughts

Mastering the parry mechanic in Cuphead is essential for success. By understanding the “pink equals parry” rule, recognizing exceptions, and practicing your timing, you’ll be well on your way to conquering the Inkwell Isles. So, get out there, jump, and parry your way to victory!