A Complete Guide for Elden Ring’s Parrying System

PDF download Download Article
Dominate boss battles and PVP fights by parrying
PDF download Download Article

Parrying is a mechanic in Elden Ring that allows you to deflect and stagger an opponent in order to gain a free guaranteed critical hit. It requires precise timing, but with a little practice, you can get good at parrying and use this ability to dominate in boss battles or PVP fights. This wikiHow article teaches you everything you need to know about parrying in Elden Ring.

Parrying in Elden Ring

You need to have a shield with a parry skill in order to parry. Press L2 or T2 at the precise moment of an attack to parry the attack and stagger your opponent. After a successful parry, your opponent is open to a critical attack or Riposte. Not all attacks or enemies can be parried.

Section 1 of 6:

How to Parry

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/96\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/96\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    In order to do this, you must have a shield with the parry skill equipped in your left hand. Press the Skill button (usually L2/T2 on a controller) at the exact moment before an attack lands. This requires precise timing. If your timing is correct, you will stagger your opponent and leave them open to a guaranteed critical attack, or a Riposte.
    • Different shields have different windows for when you can successfully parry. Generally speaking, smaller shields (such as a buckler) have the largest number or active frames when a parry can be successfully performed.
    • Not all shields have the parry skill.
    • Not all enemies, bosses, or attacks can be parried.
    • Bosses may need to be parried a few times before they are staggered.
    • A successful parry also leaves you invulnerable to attacks for a few frames after the attack. This can give you a window to escape a large group of enemies.
    2. Advertisement
Section 2 of 6:

The Three Stages of the Parrying Mechanic

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f9\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f9\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    These are the animation frames in which your character is preparing to parry. During this stage, your character is still vulnerable to attack.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b9\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b9\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    These are the frames of the animation in which your character can perform a successful parry if hit during this time. The number of active frames varies depending on the shield you are using. Some shields only have one active frame. The buckler shield has 5 active frames at 30 frames per second.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d3\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d3\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This is the final stage of the parry animation. This is usually the largest number of frames. If hit during this stage, your character will receive damage to health and stamina similar to blocking.
    4. Advertisement
Section 3 of 6:

Attacks that Can be Parried

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2b\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2b\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Particularly melee attacks from humanoid enemies, such as soldiers. You can parry most attacks from weapons that are swung in an arch. The only exception is jump attacks and attacks from colossal two-handed weapons.
Section 4 of 6:

Attacks that Cannot Be Parried

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/75\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/75\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Projectiles and spells cannot be parried unless you have a specific skill. For example, the Carian Retaliation skill can dispel incoming magic projectiles and transform them into glintblades which you can fire back at your opponent. The Storm Wall skill can deflect incoming projectiles.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c2\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c2\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    For example, golems and trolls cannot be parried. However, omens can be parried.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/33\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/33\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    These are the one melee attack that can't be parried.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/98\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/98\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    However, two-handed weapons held in one hand can be parried.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/28\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/28\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    For example, giant bats cannot be parried, but warhawks can be parried.
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/45\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/45\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-11.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    For example, Tree Sentinel's horse bash and charge attack cannot be parried. Nor can Margit's hammer smash. [1]
    7. Advertisement
Section 5 of 6:

Parrying Ashes of War

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/12\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/12\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-12.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Carian Retaliation is a skill that allows you to parry as well as dispel incoming magic projectiles. It will deflect magic projectiles and transform them into 3 Glintblades you can launch back at your opponent. Carian Retaliation can be purchased from Pidia, Carian Servant for 3,000 ruins in Caria Manor. [2]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/cd\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/cd\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-13.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Storm Wall allows you to deflect incoming projectiles as well as parry attacks. It can be used on small and medium-sized shields. You can find it north of Stormhill Shack around the collapsed bridge. Defeat the teardrop scarab in the outcropping to the west to obtain Storm Wall. [3]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7d\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-14.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-14.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7d\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-14.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-14.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Thop's Barrier has slightly better parrying stats when applied on a small or medium-sized shield. It can also deflect magic, but it doesn't give you Glintblades. Thops's Barrier has 3 startup frames and 5 active frames of animation. It can be found in the Church of Irith. It is dropped by a teardrop scarab after delivering the Academy Glintstone Key to Thops. [4]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/75\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-15.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-15.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/75\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-15.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-15.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Golden Parry can parry attacks from a greater distance. It is dropped by teardrop scarabs in the Capital Outskirts. [5]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5f\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-16.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-16.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5f\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-16.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-16.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If your shield does not have a parry skill, you can purchase one from the vendor at Warmaster's Shack at the start of the game.
    6. Advertisement
Section 6 of 6:

Parrying Tips

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b4\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-17.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-17.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b4\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-17.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-17.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you are new to parrying, start with a small shield, such as a buckler shield. Small shields have a more active frames of animation and fewer startup frames. A larger shield may be better at blocking attacks, but a smaller shield is better for parrying and more forgiving for beginners.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8e\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-18.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-18.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8e\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-18.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-18.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You may be tempted to watch their hands, but you'll be able to respond better by watching their hand instead.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-19.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-19.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-19.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-19.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Enemies usually telegraph their attacks with a wind-up. You will see them pull their weapon back before an attack. Press R2 or T2 as soon as you see the rapid hand movement coming at you. Do not delay. Don't try to parry when the attack lands. By then, it's too late.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/62\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-20.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-20.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/62\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-20.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-20.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You can parry while guarding. Press L1 to guard. Holding a guard will protect you if your parry is unsuccessful.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a3\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-21.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-21.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a3\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-21.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-21.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Study the enemy's attack animation. Look for tells that indicate the proper time to parry.
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5f\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-22.jpg\/v4-460px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-22.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5f\/Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-22.jpg\/v4-728px-Parry-Elden-Ring-Step-22.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The only way to get good at parrying is to keep practicing. Try practicing on low-level enemies, such as the soldiers in Limgrave. Eventually, you will learn muscle memory and it will become almost automatic.
    7. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Connect Switch to a PC: The Ultimate Guide
      How to
      Do 2-Player Split Screen Mode in Fortnite
      The Fastest & Easiest Way to Unlock Full Body Haki in Blox Fruits
      Simple Ways to Get God Human in Blox Fruits
      BitLife Model Career Guide: Steps, Elite Gigs, Auditions, & More
      The Best Fruits in Blox Fruit Ranked
      How to
      Contact Activision
      How to
      Contact PlayStation
      What Is the Best Race in Blox Fruits & How to Change It?
      How to
      Fix a PlayStation 5 Controller Flashing Blue: 6 Tips
      How to
      Make Money Quickly & Efficiently in Stardew Valley
      Your Comprehensive Guide to Getting Tushita in Blox Fruits
      How to
      Make a PS5 Primary for Offline Play & Game Sharing
      How to
      Become President in BitLife: Everything You Need To Know
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.fanbyte.com/elden-ring/guides/how-to-parry
      2. ↑ https://eldenring.wiki.fextralife.com/Carian+Retaliation+(Skill)
      3. ↑ https://eldenring.wiki.fextralife.com/Storm+Wall
      4. ↑ https://eldenring.wiki.fextralife.com/Thops's+Barrier
      5. ↑ https://eldenring.wiki.fextralife.com/Golden+Parry

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 254 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement