Black Myth: Wukong is a highly anticipated action RPG that draws heavy inspiration from Soulslike games. As with many games in this genre, mastering combat mechanics is crucial to surviving the numerous challenges you’ll face. One such mechanic that can make a significant difference in your gameplay is parrying. Successfully parrying attacks allows you to deflect damage and counterattack, potentially turning the tide of battle, especially against tougher foes. However, unlike other mechanics that are introduced early in the game, parrying in Black Myth: Wukong requires you to unlock a specific spell called Rock Solid. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to acquire and effectively use this essential defensive tool.
Understanding the Parry Mechanic in Black Myth: Wukong
Unlike some Soulslike games where parrying is a basic skill available from the start, in Black Myth: Wukong, parrying is a more advanced technique that must be learned and equipped. The game deliberately makes you earn this skill, reinforcing the importance of strategic gameplay. To parry, you’ll need to obtain and use the Rock Solid spell, which allows you to deflect enemy attacks and counter with precision.
How to Unlock the Rock Solid Spell
1. Progress to Chapter 2:
The first step to unlocking the parry mechanic is advancing to Chapter 2 of the game. Early on, you’ll be introduced to various combat mechanics, but parrying won’t be one of them. Don’t worry—this is by design. The game waits until later to grant you access to this powerful spell, ensuring you’ve had time to become familiar with other aspects of combat first.
2. Defeat the Tiger Vanguard Boss:
In Chapter 2, you’ll encounter a formidable foe known as the Tiger Vanguard boss in the Crouching Tiger Temple. This battle is a significant milestone in your journey, and defeating this boss is mandatory. Once you emerge victorious, you’ll be rewarded with the Rock Solid spell from the headless bard, a key NPC in this part of the game.
3. Equip the Rock Solid Spell:
After acquiring the Rock Solid spell, you’ll need to equip it to use it in battle. Since it is an Alteration spell, equipping it will require you to sacrifice another spell slot, such as Cloud Step. Consider your playstyle and current needs before making your choice.
How to Use the Rock Solid Spell
1. Manage Your Mana:
The Rock Solid spell costs 30 Mana to cast, so you’ll need to be mindful of your Mana pool. Since it also has a 15-second cooldown, you won’t be able to spam it indiscriminately. Instead, use it strategically, saving it for critical moments when a well-timed parry could make all the difference.
2. Timing Is Key:
As with all parry mechanics in action RPGs, timing is crucial. The Rock Solid spell requires precise timing to deflect an enemy’s attack successfully. Practice makes perfect, so take the time to learn enemy patterns and anticipate their moves. A well-executed parry not only blocks the incoming attack but often leaves your opponent vulnerable to a powerful counterattack.
3. Upgrade the Rock Solid Spell:
To maximize the effectiveness of the Rock Solid spell, consider upgrading it with perks. Two notable upgrades are Rapid Return and Rock Mastery. Rapid Return allows you to cancel the spell if needed, providing greater flexibility in combat. Rock Mastery, on the other hand, reduces the cooldown time, enabling you to use the spell more frequently. Investing in these upgrades can make the Rock Solid spell an even more vital part of your combat arsenal.
Tips for Mastering Parrying in Black Myth: Wukong
- Study Enemy Patterns: Pay close attention to the attack patterns of different enemies. Understanding when they’re likely to strike will help you time your parries more effectively.
- Use Sparingly: Given the Mana cost and cooldown, parrying should be used sparingly and strategically. Don’t rely on it as your sole defensive option; instead, combine it with dodging and other defensive maneuvers.
- Experiment with Spell Combinations: Since equipping Rock Solid requires sacrificing another spell, experiment with different combinations to find what works best for your playstyle. Some players might prefer a more defensive setup, while others might opt for a mix of offensive and defensive spells.
- Practice in Safe Areas: If you’re struggling with the timing, practice parrying against weaker enemies or in areas where the stakes aren’t as high. This will help you build confidence and muscle memory for when you face tougher opponents.
Parrying in Black Myth: Wukong is a skill that requires both strategy and practice, but once mastered, it can greatly enhance your combat effectiveness. By unlocking and upgrading the Rock Solid spell, you’ll be better equipped to take on the game’s most challenging enemies. Remember, while parrying is powerful, it’s just one of many tools at your disposal—use it wisely, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a formidable warrior in the world of Wukong.
