U4GM - Why Parrying Is Still Worth Learning – Elden Ring Combat Fundamentals
In the vast and unforgiving world of Elden Ring Runes, combat mastery often makes the difference between life and death. While many players opt for powerful spells or heavy weapons, parrying remains one of the most rewarding and skill-intensive techniques in the game. Despite its steep learning curve, parrying is still worth learning—and for good reason.
The Power of Parrying in Elden Ring
Parrying allows players to counter an enemy's attack at the perfect moment, opening them up for a devastating critical hit. This mechanic isn’t new to FromSoftware games, but in Elden Ring, it has taken on even greater significance due to the game’s vast array of enemies and diverse combat styles.
Unlike simple blocking or dodging, parrying is high risk and high reward. It requires timing, patience, and a deep understanding of your opponent’s moves. However, the payoff can be immense. Mastering this skill lets you take down even the most challenging foes without relying on brute strength or heavy armor.
Why Parrying Is Still Worth the Effort
For newer players, it might be tempting to skip parrying in favor of safer tactics, especially in early areas where farming Elden Ring runes seems more important. However, investing the time to learn how to parry pays off in multiple ways:
Efficiency in combat: Successfully parried enemies are left vulnerable, allowing you to deal massive damage and end fights quickly.
Rune preservation: Dying repeatedly due to inefficient combat wastes precious runes. Parrying can reduce your death count and help you accumulate runes faster.
Confidence building: There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of parrying a boss’s killing blow. The more you learn this technique, the more confident you become in every fight.
Combining Parrying With Your Rune Strategy
If your goal is to maximize your time and resources in the game, learning to parry can directly support your rune farming strategy. Whether you’re saving up to level up or looking to enhance your gear, minimizing deaths and clearing enemies efficiently will help you keep and grow your rune count. Some players also choose to buy Elden Ring runes cheap through trusted online stores to speed up progression. Regardless of your approach, learning to parry ensures you get more value out of every rune you earn or purchase.
When and Where to Practice Parrying
The best way to learn is to start small. Early-game enemies, especially humanoid NPCs and soldiers, are great targets for practicing your parry timing. Equip a small shield or parrying dagger and study their attack patterns. Over time, your reaction time will improve, and you’ll start parrying without even thinking about it.
Once you’re comfortable with basic enemies, try using parry against more complex foes. Knights, invaders, and even some bosses can be staggered if your timing is perfect. The satisfaction of turning a deadly fight in your favor with one well-timed parry is unmatched
In a game as challenging as Elden Ring, every tool in your arsenal matters. While parrying may not be the easiest mechanic to learn, it offers a deep sense of mastery and control that no other combat style provides. It also directly supports your rune accumulation strategy, whether you're grinding naturally or looking to buy Elden Ring runes cheap to gain an edge.
Take the time to learn it—you'll thank yourself every time an enemy crumples to the ground after a successful parry.
Want to level up faster and spend less time grinding? Consider combining your skills with strategic rune management to make the most of your journey through the Lands Between.