Parry is a precision-based defensive mechanic exclusive to Leon that allows him to block a melee attack at the last possible moment and immediately regain control of the fight. Unlike standard blocking or dodging, parrying rewards accurate timing with space, safety, and momentum—but punishes mistakes with direct damage.
This system is designed to support Leon’s more action-oriented playstyle and is completely unavailable during Grace’s sections of the game.
1. What Is Parry?
Parrying
Parry is a timing-based defensive action that interrupts an enemy’s melee attack at the moment it would hit Leon. Parrying in Resident Evil Requiem is not meant to be used constantly. It exists as a situational counter when enemies close the distance and force Leon into melee range.
A successful parry:
- Stops the enemy’s attack
- Prevents or minimizes damage
- Forces the attacker into a brief stagger
- Gives Leon space to reposition or act
A failed parry:
- Deals full damage to Leon
- Can chain into additional hits if multiple enemies are nearby
NOTE: When you use parry and do a melee attack, the Axe condition wears out over time, and you will not be able to do parry.
2. How to Parry
- Play as Leon: Parrying is only available during Leon’s playable sections. The mechanic is completely disabled when controlling Grace.
- Equip the Axe: Leon must have his axe equipped to parry. If the axe is dull or damaged, the parry will fail even with correct timing.
- Face a Melee Enemy: Parry only works against direct melee attacks. It does not work against explosions, traps, area-of-effect attacks, or certain boss abilities.
- Watch the Final Attack Motion: Focus on the moment the enemy’s attack moves forward to strike. Do not react to the wind-up animation, as pressing early will result in damage.
- Press the Parry Button: Press the parry button once just before the attack connects. On PlayStation, press L1. On Xbox, press Left Bumper (LB) and Space on PC. Holding the button does not work.
- Confirm the Parry: A successful parry blocks the attack and briefly staggers the enemy, giving Leon a short recovery window.
- Use the Opening: Step back to create space, line up a shot, or prepare for the next enemy while the stagger effect lasts.
3. How to Sharpen the Axe For Parry
Sharpening axe
Leon cannot parry if the axe is dull. You will need to sharpen the axe or melee weapon you’re using, like a hatchet, knife, etc., to do parry again. Here’s how to sharpen the axe:
- Make sure to open the inventory and check if the axe is equipped.
- Check if your axe is damaged and is shown red on bottom right corner.
- Hold E and continue the sharpening animation until the axe is green.
4. How to Get the Untouchable Trophy
To unlock the Untouchable Trophy, you will need to parry once. The Untouchable Trophy unlocks immediately after your first successful parry. Focus on the moment just before their strike connects. Hit it precisely as the attack is about to land (Xbox: LB, PS: L1).
5. Tips for Using Parry Effectively
Leon Finisher
- Parry Late, Not Early: Wait until the enemy’s attack is about to land before pressing the Parry button. Pressing too soon is the most common mistake.
- Use Parry for Space: Think of parry as a defensive tool. Use it to create breathing room, reset positioning, or avoid getting cornered instead of trying to kill enemies with it.
- Don’t Parry Groups: Parry only works on one enemy at a time. When multiple foes are nearby, dodge or create distance before attempting a parry.
- Maintain Axe Sharpness: Always check your axe condition. A dull axe disables parry and increases risk in close combat. Sharpen before entering tight corridors or combat-heavy areas.
- Learn Enemy Timing: Most melee enemies share similar attack animations. Practice on one type, then you can consistently parry others.
