U4GM - Elden Ring: 24 Tips to Master Parrying and Counterattacks Parrying in Elden Ring is one of the most rewarding — and punishing — mechanics in the game. A successful parry can instantly turn the tide of a fight, staggering enemies and opening them up for a devastating riposte. But it also carries risk, especially when timed poorly. Whether you're brand new to parrying or want to refine your skill, these 24 tips will help you counterattack like a pro. 1. Use the Right ShieldNot every shield can parry. Small and medium-sized shields like the Buckler or the Parrying Dagger offer quicker parry frames. Avoid greatshields unless you're blocking, not parrying. 2. Practice on Low-Stakes EnemiesStart with foot soldiers or undead near the First Step Site of Grace. Their slow, predictable attacks are ideal for learning the parry timing. 3. Watch the Wind-UpDon’t react to the enemy’s first movement. Instead, learn the full animation arc. Parry too early or too late, and you'll take the hit. 4. Adjust for Weapon TypesLarger weapons like greatswords and halberds often have a longer delay between wind-up and strike, requiring slightly later parry timing. 5. Use the Buckler for TrainingThis shield has a wider parry window than most, making it a solid choice for mastering the fundamentals before moving on to other tools. 6. Avoid Parrying Multi-Hit CombosSome enemies unleash chained attacks. It’s often better to dodge or block the first few hits before attempting a parry on the final strike. 7. Incorporate Guard CountersIf parrying feels too risky, remember that blocking and then pressing heavy attack right after a block can trigger a powerful guard counter — safer and still effective. 8. Parry with the Parrying DaggerThis offhand weapon is lightweight and fast. It’s perfect for Dex builds focused on reaction-based combat. 9. Keep Your Camera FocusedLocking on ensures your parry direction stays accurate, especially against fast-moving targets or in close quarters. 10. Use Spirit Ashes to DistractSummoning can give you the space to safely test out parry timing. While enemies are locked onto your Spirit Ash, practice your windows from the side. 11. Two-Handing Removes ParryRemember that if you're two-handing a weapon, you lose the ability to parry unless it's something like a fist weapon that allows it. 12. Don’t Spam the Parry ButtonEach parry attempt has recovery frames. If you miss, you're vulnerable — patience and timing are better than mashing the button. 13. Study Boss PatternsSome mini-bosses and humanoid enemies can be parried. Spend the first phase observing attack cues and exploit them in phase two. 14. Use Talismans for HelpTalismans like the Carian Filigreed Crest help reduce FP costs if you're mixing parries with Ashes of War, making stamina and FP management easier. 15. Upgrade Your WeaponsOnce you've parried, you’ll need a good weapon to land a solid riposte. Make sure your weapon is enhanced with Elden Ring Runes and smithing stones for max impact. 16. Try Slow-Mo TrainingIf you're struggling, record your fights and slow down the playback. This helps isolate the exact moment to press parry. 17. Stay Calm Under PressureMissing one parry isn’t the end. Don’t panic and start flailing. Back off, reset, and try again. 18. Parry in PvP with CautionPlayers have varied timing and often bait parries. Stick to reading their habits over time rather than guessing. 19. Parry with Ashes of WarSome Ashes like “Carian Retaliation” function like magical parries, allowing you to deflect spells and counter with magic-based retaliation. 20. Mind Your Equipment LoadThe heavier your load, the slower your recovery. Stay in medium load or lower for ideal parry performance. 21. Use U4GM Resources to ExperimentIf you're looking to test various parry setups without endless grinding, resources like U4GM offer fast access to different Elden Ring Items for training or experimentation. 22. Reset at Grace if NeededOver-practicing in one area can build bad habits. Reset your route at a nearby Site of Grace to refresh your targets and stay sharp. 23. Understand Enemy Super ArmorNot all enemies can be parried. Some have hyper armor or simply don't stagger. Learn which foes are parryable and which aren’t. 24. Combine Parrying with StrategyYou don’t need to parry every enemy. Sometimes it’s best used as a surprise tactic in a broader strategy, especially when you’re short on Elden Ring Runes and want to avoid unnecessary deaths. Mastering the parry mechanic in Elden Ring won’t happen overnight, but with these tips, your counterattack game will start to shine. As you improve, you’ll find yourself leaning less on brute force and more on finesse. And remember, having the right Elden Ring Items and gear — whether earned through grinding or accessed via services like U4GM — can give you the flexibility to practice more effectively.