(Image credit: Ubisoft / FromSoftware / Activision)
Timing. Whether in music or cooking, mastering the rhythm is crucial. This skill is central to many video games, often essential in progressing through the levels. An immediate thought might be games like Dance Dance Revolution or Guitar Hero, but action-RPGs also rely heavily on this aspect—Assassin’s Creed Shadows stands as a prime example.
In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, both protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, must parry enemy attacks indicated by a blue glow. This mechanic differs from the game’s red attacks, which stagger heroes unless properly dodged. Mastering the parry system can temporarily disable foes, though the timing challenges expectations.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is hailed as a significant title within the series, comparable to legends like Assassin’s Creed 2 and Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag. It’s considered Ubisoft’s finest RPG to date.
Recently, I ventured into Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, distinctive within Hidetaka Miyazaki’s FromSoftware collection, with minimal weapon variety. Sekiro challenges players to master their blade, focusing heavily on perfect parrying, a system reminiscent of Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
After immersing themselves in Sekiro for nine hours, players begin grasping its precise timings—though it’s a steep learning curve for those with slower reflexes. This experience was compounded by my trials with Lies of P.
The 2023 release, Lies of P (read more here), emphasizes parrying within its expansive RPG framework, offering diverse weapons and strategies. Conquering its enemies requires mastering this mechanic, notably against final bosses. However, the parry window is narrower here than in Sekiro.
After 90 hours with Lies of P, I had adapted to its rhythm. Losing myself in its challenges taught me patience, each failure a lesson in focus. Yet, Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduced complications once more.
Ubisoft’s creation maintains a unique rhythm, prompting parries not precisely on an enemy’s attack but shortly after a cue. This forgiving window contrasts significantly with Sekiro or Lies of P, where instantaneous reflexes are rewarded.
My attempts suffer due to ingrained habits—adjusting to Assassin’s Creed Shadows demands conscious effort. It’s humorous yet frustrating, grappling with muscle memories molded by Miyazaki’s grueling standards.
While Assassin’s Creed Shadows differs vastly from Soulslike games (find more here), offering varied play styles and weaponry, parrying remains a captivating challenge that I crave.
The joy of synchronizing a perfect guard, feeling the combat’s rhythm, offers an unmatched thrill within Naoe and Yasuke’s shared journey. Yet, Miyazaki’s distinct combat symphony lingers in my mind, adding layers to the challenge.
For those seeking an adrenaline-fueled experience, exploring the top 10 best FromSoftware games is a must.