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Nioh 3

How to Parry: Deflect Guide

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How to Parry - Deflect Guide

Players can parry attacks as a Samurai if the Deflect skill is unlocked in Nioh 3, a rewarding move requiring precise timing. Learn how to parry together with tips on deflecting successfully in this guide!

How to Parry

Learn the Deflect Samurai Skill

To begin parrying, the Deflect Samurai skill must first be unlocked. This becomes available early on after completing the Escape From Hitokoto Slope main mission. Once in the Warring States area, Samurai’s Locks can be found along the starting path and used to unlock Samurai skills.

In fact, once you get your first Samurai's Lock, the in-game tutorials strongly recommend unlocking Deflect first, which is located in the Samurai skill tree to the right of the center.

List of All Skills

Time Your Block at the Moment the Attack Would Land

PS5 PC (Controller) PC (Keyboard)
PS4 - L1 Button XBOX - Left Bumper F Button

To successfully parry using the Deflect skill, press the Guard/Block button at the exact moment an enemy’s attack is about to land. This takes some practice, as the timing windows are small. Pay close attention to your enemy's weapon and animations to land consistent parries.

Successful deflects have a unique sound effect and produce bright sparks. You will also lose no Ki and completely negate all damage with this skill.

Parry and Deflect Tips

Be Ready to Parry Multiple Times

Many enemies, especially bosses, do not stop after a single attack. Be prepared to parry multiple times to deflect the entire attack chain before counterattacking, which requires precise timing and careful observation of the enemy’s moves.

Lower-level enemies may have their attack combos stopped after just one successful deflect, allowing you an easy window to punish immediately.

Hold the Block Button Down Instead of Tapping It

Rather than tapping and releasing it immediately, it is better to hold the block button down when attempting a parry. This way, if you press it slightly too early, your guard will still be up to absorb incoming damage instead of taking the full hit.

Nioh 3 Related Guides

Nioh 3 - Tips and Tricks Partial Banner

Beginner's Guide to Nioh 3: Tips and Tricks

Beginner's Guides
Character Creation Guide How to Emote
How to Respec Best Stats to Level Up
Spirit Force Explained How to Unlock Eternal Rift
How to Level Up Weapons and Armor How to Get Soul Ores
Settings Guides
Best and Recommended Settings List of Controls
Tips and Tricks
How to Change Stance How to Level Up Fast
How to See Set Bonuses How to Transmog Equipment
How to Change Appearance How to Parry: Deflect Guide
How to Leave Battle Scroll How to Dismiss Summon
FAQs
Game Length: How Long to Beat How Long is the Nioh 3 Demo?
Should You Use Ninja or Samurai? What Are Spirit Veins?
How to Claim Deluxe Edition Items New Game Plus: How to Unlock Shogun's Journey

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