How to Parry & Counter in Crimson Desert

The parry and counter mechanics are not actually unlocked by default in Crimson Desert, and you’ll be required to spend Abyss Artifacts in order to unlock these abilities. Both the Parry and Counter skills are found in the Keen Senses skill tree (green).

Below, we’ll explain how parrying and counterattacks work in Crimson Desert so you can avoid taking damage that could result in yet another one of your many deaths in such a ruthless experience against bosses and enemy hordes galore.

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How to Open Sealed Abyss Artifacts in Crimson Desert

In order to open Sealed Abyss Artifacts, you’re going to need to know where to get the help of a witch. Find out the answers you need right here.

How to Parry in Crimson Desert

• Parry requires the “Parry” skill under “Keen Senses”, which requires an Abyss Artifact.
• You can parry by timing your Guard (L1/LB) button just as an enemy’s attack is about to land.
• Most attacks can be parried with a Shield, One-Handed Weapon, but sometimes, not a Two-Handed Weapon.
• You’ll know if you’ve pulled off a parry because of the sound cue, and a glowing glint that will also restore Stamina and Spirit, and open the enemy for an attack.
• Parrying can be used to interrupt enemy combos and open them up for a counterattack.

How to Counter in Crimson Desert

• Counter requires the “Counter” skill under the “Keen Senses” skill, at Level 3.
• Counter requires you to attack (R1) right before being hit, which will interrupt an enemy’s attack.
• You’ll know you’ve pulled off a counter correctly because the well-timed strike will interrupt enemies and cause a slow-motion slash.
• Counter is a tad tighter than parrying, and riskier due to the lack of shield, but it does deal effective damage.

Released

March 19, 2026

ESRB

Mature 17+ / Blood, Drug Reference, Intense Violence, Strong Language

Developer(s)

Pearl Abyss

Publisher(s)

Pearl Abyss