So You Want to Counter Like a Boss in Kingdom Come: Deliverance? Ditch the Chicken-Scratch and Learn to Wallop!
Alright, peasant! Let's face it, Kingdom Come: Deliverance combat can be a bit like trying to wrestle a greased pig in a mud puddle. You flail, it squeals, and everyone ends up looking a bit worse for wear. But fear not, for I, your friendly neighborhood bard with questionable hygiene, am here to turn you from a flailing novice to a counter-attacking champion!
First Things First: You Ain't Born With a Parry in Your Pants
Unlike that fetching milkmaid you keep eyeing, master strikes (the fancy term for countering) aren't something you just...have. You gotta earn them, like a true knight errant on a quest for clanging glory. This means befriending the lovely (and slightly grumpy) Captain Bernard in Rattay and completing his little training quests. Think of it as your medieval gym membership, minus the questionable protein shakes.
Pro-Tip: Don't be a knucklehead and try to fight bandits before you've learned the basics. You'll end up looking like a deer caught in headlights – tasty, but not exactly combat-ready.
Unleashing Your Inner Counter-Master: It's All About Timing, Baby!
Now, here comes the tricky part. Master strikes are all about perfect timing. You gotta block that enemy swing right at the tippy-top of their attack animation, just as their weapon whispers sweet nothings to your head. Think of it like catching a fly with a chopstick – precise, and deeply satisfying.
- Visual Cues are Your Best Friend: Keep your eyes peeled for that shimmery green shield icon that pops up when you block just right. That's your cue to unleash your inner Jackie Chan and launch a counter-attack of epic proportions.
- Don't Be Greedy: Master strikes are powerful, but they drain your stamina faster than a lute-playing bard at a free flagon night. Don't get too happy with your newfound power and go all Leroy Jenkins, or you'll be gasping for air faster than a fish out of water.
Advanced Countering Techniques: Because We're All About Showing Off
Once you've mastered the basic counter, it's time to spice things up! Here's where things get fancy:
- The Master Feint: Feeling like a magician? Feint an attack (press the attack button and immediately block) just before the enemy swings. This throws them off balance, leaving them open for a delicious counter-attack.
- Direction Does Matter: Notice how your opponent likes to swing their weapon from the same side every time? Block in the opposite direction just as they attack. This not only parries their blow but also opens them up for a more damaging counter from your dominant side.
Remember: Practice makes perfect (or at least, less bruised). Find a lonely bandit camp (or those ever-so-helpful training dummies) and hone your skills until you can counter like a seasoned pro.
With a little dedication and a whole lot of patience, you'll be dodging blows and countering with the grace of a unicorn on roller skates. So go forth, brave adventurer, and conquer the enemies of Skalitz (and maybe snag that fetching milkmaid while you're at it)!
