Mastering the art of blocking in Assassin’s Creed Shadows can significantly enhance your survival chances in combat. The game’s revamped combat mechanics differentiate it from its earlier RPG counterparts, offering players smoother and more fluid gameplay. In this latest installment, players gain the ability to block, parry, and dodge various enemy attacks, thus mitigating potential damage.
This guide will delve into the intricacies of how blocking functions in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
Understanding the Blocking Mechanism in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Blocking is a crucial defensive maneuver that allows players to fend off a variety of attacks using their character’s weapon. This technique is effective against most enemy strikes, including projectile assaults like arrows. Both protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, share this capability, empowering them to manage offensive encounters.
How to Block in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
To execute a block in the game, utilize the following controls based on your gaming device:
- For Xbox Controllers: Hold LB
- For DualSense Controllers: Hold L1
- For Keyboard Users: Hold Q
It’s worth noting that when playing as Naoe, blocking heavy attacks can sometimes cause a brief stagger, making dodging or parrying more practical alternatives.
Recognizing Attack Types
Not all attacks can be effectively blocked. Look for visual cues: when an enemy’s weapon flashes with a white and blue shimmer, that indicates a blockable attack. Conversely, if the weapon glows red, these attacks are classified as Unstoppable Attacks. In these situations, performing a dodge is your safest bet to evade damage.
Initially, you may find blocking red attacks impossible. However, through progression and increasing your Knowledge Rank, the ability to block these formidable strikes will become accessible as you advance in the game.
Overall, mastering the blocking system in Assassin’s Creed Shadows is not overly complex. With practice, you’ll soon find yourself effectively utilizing blocking alongside dodging and parrying in intense combat scenarios.
For more detailed strategies on gameplay, explore further with professional guides.