To counterattack in Kingdom Come Deliverance, you must press your block button (default 'Q' on PC) at the precise moment your opponent begins their attack animation. This perfectly timed defensive maneuver will automatically execute a parry and riposte, turning your defense into an offensive strike without needing to press any attack buttons.
Mastering the Art of the Counterattack
Counterattacking is a crucial advanced combat technique in Kingdom Come Deliverance, allowing Henry to seamlessly transition from defense to offense. It's an elevated form of blocking that can significantly disrupt enemy attacks and open them up for further damage.
What is a Counterattack?
A counterattack, also known as a Master Strike in Kingdom Come Deliverance, is a specialized defensive move that not only negates an incoming attack but also immediately launches a retaliatory strike. It functions similarly to a perfect block but with an added offensive component. When successfully executed, Henry will parry the enemy's blow and then quickly follow up with an unblockable attack of his own.
The Key to Success: Precise Timing
The most critical aspect of performing a counterattack is timing. You need to activate your block just as your opponent starts their attack. This isn't when their weapon is about to hit you, but rather at the very beginning of their attack animation.
- Anticipation is Key: Watch your opponent's body language. Look for the wind-up or the initial movement that signals an impending strike.
- Press Block Button Only: Unlike regular attacks, you do not need to press any attack buttons (left-click, right-click) to perform a counterattack. Simply pressing and releasing the block button at the perfect moment is sufficient.
- Moment of Truth: Think of it as hitting the block button at the "point of no return" for your enemy's attack. Too early, and you'll just perform a regular block; too late, and you'll get hit.
Benefits of Counterattacking
Utilizing counterattacks effectively offers several advantages in combat:
- Disrupts Enemy Flow: A successful counterattack interrupts the enemy's offensive momentum and can leave them momentarily vulnerable.
- Guaranteed Damage: The riposte component of a counterattack is often unblockable by the enemy, ensuring you land a free hit.
- Stamina Management: It's an efficient way to deal damage while conserving your own stamina, as you're not constantly attacking or parrying.
- Style and Efficiency: It makes combat feel more fluid and rewarding, allowing you to dominate fights with skill rather than brute force.
- Defense Becomes Offense: It transforms a purely defensive action into a powerful offensive move.
Practice Makes Perfect
Mastering counterattacks requires practice and patience. Here are some tips to help you improve:
- Start with Captain Bernard: The combat trainer, Captain Bernard, at the Rattay combat arena is your best resource. He teaches Master Strikes and allows you to practice them against him repeatedly without consequence.
- Observe Attack Patterns: Pay close attention to different enemy attack animations. Each weapon type and opponent will have slightly varied timings.
- Isolate Opponents: When facing multiple enemies, try to engage them one-on-one to better focus on their attack tells.
- Don't Spam: Resist the urge to spam the block button. A single, well-timed press is what you need.
- Utilize Training Weapons: Practice with wooden weapons in the arena to get a feel for the timing without the pressure of lethal combat.
- Equip Light Armor (Initially): Lighter armor can sometimes make Henry feel more agile, potentially making the timing feel more intuitive during practice.
| Action | Input (PC Default) | Timing | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Counterattack | Q (Block) | Exactly as enemy starts their attack | Parry + Unblockable Retaliatory Strike |
| Perfect Block | Q (Block) | Just before enemy weapon hits | Block + Enemy Staggered, Minor Stamina Drain |
| Regular Block | Hold Q (Block) | Any time enemy attacks | Block + Significant Stamina Drain, No Retaliation |
By integrating the precise timing of your block with your opponent's attack initiation, Henry can turn the tide of battle with devastating counterattacks.
For further insights into combat mechanics, consider exploring community guides on Kingdom Come Deliverance Wiki.
