In *The First Berserker: Khazan*, mastering defensive maneuvers can significantly boost your chances of victory. It's not just about attacking; keeping an eye on your stamina is crucial. A strong defense can tire out your enemies, allowing you to capitalize on their exhaustion. If you're looking to master Counterattack and Reflection, you're in the right place.
Counterattack is among the first defensive skills you'll unlock in the game. While you can dodge or guard most attacks with perfect timing, certain moves known as Burst Attacks cannot be countered with Brink Guard. These are high-impact moves that significantly drain your stamina and health. You'll know an enemy is about to unleash a Burst Attack by the flashing symbol and distinct sound effect that appears on the screen.
To execute a Counterattack, you'll need to press L1+Circle/LB+B. Timing is critical here; it's not just about inputting the command. You must synchronize the Counterattack animation with the enemy's attack to successfully counter. When done correctly, not only will you avoid damage, but your stamina will be fully restored, and the enemy will be staggered, offering you a prime opportunity to deal substantial damage. This technique is particularly effective against foes like The Viper who use Burst Attacks.
While Brink Guard is a reliable way to avoid damage, Reflection offers an additional layer of strategy. This skill is indispensable when facing tougher bosses later in the game, providing a window for retaliation while keeping Khazan safe. To use Reflection, press L1+Triangle/LB+Y, which triggers a brief animation of Khazan swinging his weapon at a target.
The trick to a successful Reflection is timing your swing to intercept the enemy's attack animation. A well-timed Reflection will cause significant stamina damage to the enemy, stunning them in the process. Upgrades can enhance Reflection by adding health damage and shortening the animation window for more precise execution. However, practice is key as missing the timing will result in both health and stamina damage to you. Remember, Reflection won't work against Burst Attacks or grabs.
Now that you know how to effectively use Counterattack and Reflection in *The First Berserker: Khazan*, you're better equipped to handle the game's challenges. For more tips and guides, check out The Escapist.