Elden Ring Carian Retaliation Vs Buckler Parry

Caroline Mae

2 min read

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06-01-2025

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Choosing the right defensive tool in Elden Ring can significantly impact your survival. Two popular options often debated amongst players are the Carian Retaliation Ash of War and the Buckler parry. Both offer unique defensive capabilities, but which one reigns supreme? This comparison delves into their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal applications.

Carian Retaliation: The Arcane Counter

Carian Retaliation, an Ash of War requiring a minimum of 12 Intelligence, is a powerful counter-attack spell. It's activated by perfectly timing a guard counter against an enemy's attack. Successful execution launches a potent magical blast, often staggering or even outright stunning larger foes.

Strengths:

• High Damage Output: Deals significant magical damage, particularly effective against enemies weak to magic.
• Stagger Potential: Can stagger or stun enemies, opening them up for further attacks.
• Ranged Counter: The projectile nature allows for safe countering even from slightly outside the enemy's immediate reach.

Weaknesses:

• Strict Timing: Requires precise timing to activate, making it challenging for beginners or against rapid attacks.
• Arcane Requirement: High Intelligence requirement may restrict its use for builds focusing on other stats.
• Mana Consumption: Consumes FP (Focus Points), meaning it's not a limitless defensive option.

Buckler Parry: The Classic Block and Riposte

The Buckler, a small shield often paired with fast weapons, allows for parries using its unique parry timing. A successful parry leaves the enemy open for a devastating riposte attack, offering a direct counter.

Strengths:

• Simple Mechanics: Parrying is relatively straightforward to learn compared to the precise timing of Carian Retaliation.
• No Stat Requirements: Requires no specific stat investment beyond the ability to equip the Buckler.
• No Resource Consumption: Parries don't consume FP or other resources.

Weaknesses:

• Riskier than Carian Retaliation: Unsuccessful parries result in significant damage and potential stun.
• Lower Damage Output: Riposte damage is generally lower than Carian Retaliation's magic burst.
• Close-Range Defense: Requires being within close proximity to the enemy, increasing risk.

The Verdict: Which is Better?

There's no definitive "better" option; the ideal choice hinges entirely on your playstyle and build.

• Carian Retaliation excels for: Magic-focused builds, players comfortable with precise timing, and those who need a ranged counter option. Its high damage output and stagger potential make it a powerful tool in the right hands.

• Buckler Parry excels for: Players prioritizing simplicity and defensive stability, those with low Intelligence, and those prefering a consistent, resource-free defensive strategy. While less damaging, its reliability and ease of use make it a strong choice.

Ultimately, experimentation is key. Try both the Carian Retaliation and Buckler parry to determine which better suits your preferred approach to combat in the Lands Between.