Final Fantasy 16: How To Parry [All Tips]

In the adrenaline-fueled world of Final Fantasy 16, mastering the art of parry mechanics can mean the difference between glorious victory and bitter defeat. As an intricate and rewarding combat mechanic, parrying not only grants you a critical survival advantage but also adds a nuanced layer to the FF16’s richly detailed battle system. And while parrying may be a common feature in many action games, its implementation in FF16 stands apart due to its unique activation method, earning applause from both new players and long-time FF series veterans.

What Is Parring In Final Fantasy 16?

Parrying is regarded as a counter-attack measure by Clive in FF16. This attack can only be performed in return for an enemy attack. Parrying helps Clive by slowing down the enemy’s attack and providing enough time to carry out a successful strike on the opponent. 

While going through FF16, Clive will encounter many enemies in close-range combat. In such a situation, a parry attack will provide an advantageous situation for Clive in order to knock down the opponent. Parry attack is considered one of the most powerful attacks if the players use it at the proper time. Failing in engaging Parry attack or performing at the wrong time can lead to severe circumstances in FF16.

How Does Parry Attack Works In Final Fantasy 16?

Well, now you have pretty much an idea about what is Parring in FF16, it is time to explain how this attack can be activated in FF16. The first thing is to understand that a Parry attack is a close-range combat attack and only applies to Melee Attacks. It does not work for the ranged attacks at all. 

In order to activate the Parry attack, there are certain conditions that need to be met.

• As explained earlier, the first one is Clive must be in the close vicinity of the opponent.
• Secondly, Clive must be facing the enemy while he attacks.
• If these two conditions are achieved, the Parry attack can be initiated by pressing the attack button at the right instant. 

Here comes the most important factor in the whole Parry Attack process. It is the timing of the attack. In order to convert the normal attack into Parry, the player must counterattack at the exact same instant when the opponent attacks. The simultaneous attack by both Clive and Enemy will activate Parry and slow down FF16 game time except for Clive.

There’s a unique feature associated with Parrying in Final Fantasy 16. This FF16 feature is the same attack button that can be used for normal Melee attacks as well as for Parry attacks. Players can use the Square button for this purpose in FF16. Unlike in other similar games, where players have to use two different buttons to get a Parry attack outcome, such as deflecting the incoming attack first and then executing a Parry.

Advantages & Disadvantages Of Parry Attacks In FF16

Parry attacks have been discussed so far, and it comes with its own perks and downsides as well. The major advantage a player gets while having the Parry attack is the opportunity to provide huge damage to the opponent in a single strike. Further, it can be initiated with the same button used for normal attacks, it is more convenient to apply in combat.

The major downside associated with the Parry attacks is the bad timing. If the attack happens at the right time, then it’s a cherry on top. On the other side, if it initiates at the wrong moment it leaves Clive vulnerable to the enemy attack. In such cases, there is nothing a player can do to defend the protagonist. Such attacks from the opponents can be fatal or can cause a lot of damage to Clive’s health.

Parry Vs Counter Attack Vs Precision Dodge

Although many other hack-and-slash or real-time live-action games such as Devil May Cry 5, Dark Souls and more have Parry attacks like in FF16, the latter has added a unique feature to it. Its uniqueness lies in the activation method being applauded by long-time Final Fantasy series players.

Besides Parry, there are two more countermeasures or Clive’s Abilities that can be utilized to punish enemies landing an incoming attack: Counter Attack & Precision Dodge. Here is an overview showcasing a comparison between all three core mechanics of Final Fantasy 16.

Mechanic	Execution	Damage Potential	Pros	Cons	Best Usage
Parry	Parry is performed by pressing the attack button when Clive is facing an enemy's melee attack	High, can provide huge damage in a single hit	Parry slows down the enemy’s attack, providing time for a counter. More convenient as the same button can be used for normal attacks.	Wrong timing leaves Clive vulnerable to the enemy's attack.	Best used in close combat scenarios and when enemy's attack is timed.
Counter Attack	Press the relevant button immediately after performing a "Precision Dodge"	High, inflicts more damage than normal hits	Provides a reliable method of avoiding damage then quickly inflicting it. Dodging is possible against any enemy's attack.	Timing is key; dodging too early or late can cause the player to get hit	Ideal for situations where dodging is more reliable than parrying.
Precision Dodge	Press R1 right before an enemy attack to dodge and avoid damage	Can lead to high damage if followed by a counter attack	Precise timing allows dodging without damage and facilitates a precision counter. Ring of Timely Focus can aid with timing.	Difficult to master as it requires accurate prediction of enemy attacks	Best used when it is difficult to predict the exact moment of an enemy's attack.

Mastering the art of parrying in Final Fantasy 16 isn’t just an additional skill, it’s a game-changing strategy. As you navigate Clive’s tumultuous journey, employing well-timed parries can turn the tide in even the most overwhelming battles. With practice and precision for sure, your parries will become a crucial part of your combat, enhancing not only executing the best combos but also Clive’s survival.

With this, I wrap up my Final Fantasy 16 Parry guide where I believe I have mentioned every single useful detail about Parry and 2 more key mechanics related to this combat mechanic. While you’re here, I suggest you go through Final Fantasy 16: How To Beat Benedikta, Eikonic Challenge Mode, and Best Party in FF16 guides to learn more about the game.

Next:

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