Ghostrunner 2: How to block and parry

Ghostrunner 2 is a challenging game on all fronts, thanks to its brutal one-hit death mechanics and aggressive enemies. So, it is necessary to have your guard up when tackling enemy encounters. The game does offer ways to nullify this, particularly with the block mechanic. Jack, the protagonist, is armed with a sword, his primary means of executing foes.

Aside from offense, it is used to block and parry incoming attacks. Here's how it functions in Ghostrunner 2.

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How to parry in Ghostrunner 2

Sometimes, defense is the best offense (Image via 505 Games)

Since Jack wields his sword while on foot, blocking is incredibly efficient. Here's how to block attacks:

• On PC: Use the Right Mouse Button to hold the blade in a defensive stance
• On controller: Use the LB button on the Xbox Series X|S controller and L1 button on the PlayStation 5 controller

While it looks simple on paper, players will struggle to find their footing. For one, Jack can block most melee strikes and ranged projectiles. Doing so, however, will drain his stamina bar, which is indicated by a blue bar on the screen beneath the aiming reticle. Players must avoid completely depleting Jack's stamina.

This is because, aside from blocking becoming temporarily ineffective, he will also be unable to perform evasive maneuvers such as dashing. In a nutshell, Ghostrunner 2 becomes a balancing act of dodging and blocking. Coupled with that, parrying also presents a few complications.

When players press the block button just as an enemy attack is about to hit, Jack will nullify the damage without depleting his stamina. This is known as a "Perfect Parry," which will reward those who master its timing. Considering the number of enemies in subsequent harder levels, players most certainly need to practice — if not perfect — parrying.

Investing in Upgrades will allow them to squeeze more out of this mechanic. This includes deflecting projectiles with perfect timing and even regenerating Energy required to use skills. All of these facets combine to create a cathartic experience that will allow players to slice through foes with ease — assuming they take the time to come to grips with the basics of Ghostrunner 2.

However, we also recommend learning the mechanics of parrying and blocking. Those who mastered perfect parrying should make quick work of not just enemy encounters but also the handful of powerful bosses in Ghostrunner 2.

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Best block/parry upgrades in Ghostrunner 2

The following are the best block/parry modifiers that players can equip in Ghostrunner 2:

1. Blade Coating: Allows the user to block incoming attacks from the Scorchman and Chook enemy types which attack using lasers from a distance. Do note that the laser beam needs some practice to be parried well while blocking the laser slash will cause the player to suffer from massive recoil

2. Smooth Moves: Makes deflecting projectiles as well as performing perfect-parries much easier. At an install cost of just 3, this is a must-have for any Ghostrunner

3. Smart Deflect: Causes deflected projectiles to return to their target location, allowing players to kill enemies with their own projectile attacks

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Ghostrunner 2 is set to launch for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S platforms on October 26, 2023. Check out our review to see if the game is up your alley. Furthermore, here's a look at the different editions for those interested in pre-ordering the game before launch.