Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, developed by Sandfall Interactive, integrates familiar role-playing game turn-based battle mechanics with unique twists that offer more engaging gameplay than typical command selections. Players must perform quick-time events (QTEs) during both attacking and defending phases to enhance their offense and reduce incoming damage.

While executing QTEs for attacks is relatively manageable, those for defense are significantly more challenging and critical. Missing a parry or dodge often results in substantial damage, making combat more frustrating and less enjoyable.

Mastery of parrying and dodging in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 demands discarding any preconceptions about timing. Players who enjoy action games like Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice will find the timing for parries in this game quite different. Early attempts may involve pressing the parry button as the attack lands, which won’t work.

Begin by focusing on dodging in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, as its timing is less stringent, making it easier to grasp. This helps develop a sense of correct timing, and once perfect dodges are achieved, parrying becomes more feasible, as both share the same timing.

To parry effectively, understand that it involves raising a temporary barrier. It takes time to activate, so the enemy attack must connect with the “shield” after pressing the parry button. This necessitates accounting for the setup time.

Given the mechanics of parries and the occasional unnatural delay in enemy attacks, it’s clear parries weren’t meant to be used haphazardly. After understanding timing basics, practice with each enemy, noting visual or audio cues to time parries accurately. With time, this will become second nature, enhancing the combat experience in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.