Elden Ring Shield Parry Timing Guide: Animation Frames

Introduction

Mastering the shield parry in Elden Ring can be a game-changer, allowing you to deflect enemy attacks and open them up for devastating critical strikes. However, parrying requires precise timing and an understanding of animation frames. This guide will break down the mechanics of shield parry timing, including active frames, recovery frames, and how to optimize your parries against different enemy types.

Understanding Parry Mechanics

1. What is a Parry?

A parry is a defensive maneuver where you deflect an enemy’s attack at the right moment, leaving them vulnerable to a riposte (critical attack). Not all shields can parry—only small and medium shields with the "Parry" skill equipped are effective.

2. Parry Animation Frames

Every parry animation consists of three phases:

Startup Frames – The initial wind-up before the parry becomes active.
Active Frames – The brief window where the parry can successfully deflect an attack.
Recovery Frames – The time after the active frames where you cannot parry again.

Each shield type has different frame data, affecting how forgiving the parry is.

Shield Types and Their Parry Frames

1. Small Shields (Best for Parrying)

Example Shields: Buckler, Small Leather Shield
Startup Frames: ~8 frames
Active Frames: ~10 frames
Recovery Frames: ~20 frames

Small shields have the fastest parry animation, making them the most reliable for consistent parries. The Buckler has a unique "Buckler Parry" skill with even better frame data.

2. Medium Shields (Balanced but Slower)

Example Shields: Brass Shield, Kite Shield
Startup Frames: ~12 frames
Active Frames: ~6 frames
Recovery Frames: ~25 frames

Medium shields are slower but offer better defense. Their parry window is tighter, requiring more precise timing.

3. Parry Daggers & Other Tools

Example: Parrying Dagger, Golden Parry (Ash of War)
Startup Frames: ~6-10 frames (varies)
Active Frames: ~8-12 frames
Recovery Frames: ~18-22 frames

The Parrying Dagger has a fast animation, while Golden Parry (an Ash of War) extends the parry’s range and active frames, making it more forgiving.

How to Time Your Parry Correctly

1. Recognizing Enemy Attack Animations

To parry effectively, you must predict when an enemy’s weapon will hit you. Watch for:

Weapon wind-up – The moment an enemy raises their weapon.
Swing commitment – The point where the attack can no longer be canceled.

2. When to Press Parry

Fast Attacks (Daggers, Straight Swords): Parry just as the attack begins moving toward you.
Medium Attacks (Greatswords, Axes): Parry slightly before the weapon reaches you.
Slow Attacks (Colossal Weapons): Delay your parry slightly to match the slower swing speed.

3. Common Mistakes

Parrying Too Early – You’ll be hit during startup frames.
Parrying Too Late – You’ll miss the active window.
Spamming Parry – Recovery frames leave you vulnerable.

Advanced Parry Techniques

1. Partial Parries

If you mistime a parry but still block, you’ll take reduced damage (but no riposte chance). This is better than eating a full hit.

2. Prediction vs. Reaction Parries

Prediction Parries – Used against predictable enemies (e.g., Crucible Knights).
Reaction Parries – Used against fast, erratic enemies (e.g., Malenia).

3. Parry Chains

Some enemies (like NPC invaders) can be parried multiple times in a row. Learn their patterns to chain parries.

Best Enemies to Practice Parrying On

Soldiers & Knights (Limgrave, Stormveil Castle) – Predictable attacks.
Crucible Knights – Slow, telegraphed moves perfect for learning.
Malenia, Blade of Miquella – High-risk, high-reward parry challenge.

Conclusion

Mastering shield parry timing in Elden Ring requires patience and practice. By understanding animation frames, choosing the right shield, and studying enemy attack patterns, you can turn parrying into a powerful tool in your arsenal. Start with small shields, practice on weaker enemies, and gradually take on tougher foes.

Happy parrying, Tarnished! 🛡️⚔️