Parrying in Elden Ring is one of the most satisfying mechanics to master, but it can also be one of the most punishing if done wrong. In my early hours of exploring the Lands Between, I realized just how crucial parrying can be when facing powerful enemies and invaders. Learning to parry efficiently doesn’t just save you from death—it can be a strategic way to collect Elden Ring Runes quickly, especially when you face rune-rich foes that drop valuable loot after a successful critical hit.

When I first started experimenting with parrying, it felt nearly impossible. I missed most of my attempts and often ended up taking more damage than I dealt. However, over time and with plenty of practice, I developed a system that helped me get the timing right. Below are five practical tips, based on experience and experimentation, that will help you improve your parry timing and gain an edge in battle.

1. Use the Right Shield or Weapon

Not all shields or weapons are ideal for parrying. To perform a reliable parry, you need a small or medium shield with the Parry skill, or certain weapons like bucklers and fist weapons that come with the ability to parry. The Buckler is a great starting option, offering a slightly longer parry window which makes timing more forgiving for beginners.

2. Focus on Humanoid Enemies First

Practicing on humanoid enemies like soldiers or knights is the best way to get the feel for parry timing. These enemies have predictable swing patterns and can help you develop muscle memory. As you progress and collect more Elden Ring Runes from these easier foes, you’ll become more confident and efficient in combat.

3. Watch the Wind-Up, Not the Weapon

One of the biggest mistakes I made was watching the weapon instead of the enemy’s movement. It’s tempting to react to the sword’s motion, but what helped me improve was focusing on the enemy’s shoulder or torso. Most attacks begin with a clear wind-up motion, and learning to react to that visual cue can significantly boost your success rate.

4. Practice Parrying in Low-Risk Areas

Don’t practice parrying during boss fights or crucial encounters. Instead, spend time in safer areas like Limgrave or the Weeping Peninsula. This gives you a low-pressure environment to practice and helps you gather Elden Ring runes for leveling up as you learn. With enough time, you’ll not only master the mechanic but also boost your character’s stats and combat effectiveness.

5. Don’t Spam Parry—Be Patient

Patience is the key. I used to spam the parry button out of panic, which never worked. Instead, wait for the enemy to commit to their attack, then parry with precision. The goal is to land a perfect counter, not to guess your way through the fight. Remember, quality over quantity.

Mastering parry timing in Elden Ring isn't easy, but it's absolutely worth the effort. Not only does it feel rewarding when you execute a perfect parry, but it also opens up new opportunities to earn more Elden Ring Runes and take on tougher challenges. Whether you're looking to perfect your skills or gather more Elden Ring runes for leveling up, understanding the rhythm of combat and enemy behavior will set you apart as a seasoned Tarnished.

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