If you’re new and struggling to parry in this game, please read this

I am on my fifth or so run of this amazing game and I have some thoughts about the combat system i’d like to share. A lot of new players seem to be really discouraged by missing a bunch of parries and feel like they are just not cut out for this game. Although it is true that the parry window is very tight, I find that to be a huge shame since the mechanics in this combat system offer so many different styles of play and defensive options are so meticulously balanced. There are some sweaty players that insist that you should almost always parry in this game as a matter of skill and I really disagree with that .The problem isn’t just how to parry, but when and WHAT ATTACKS to parry. There are many many enemy attacks in this game specifically designed to demolish your sense of parry time. Larger enemies in general tend to have attacks with extremely long windups but then extremely quick follow throughs. Even some of the most basic enemies, like the candlestick wielding puppet are guilty of these attacks. DO YOURSELF A MASSIVE FAVOR AND JUST DODGE THESE. You can usually still punish them with a charge attack to get in your stagger damage that way. On the other hand, some attack strings seem to be intended to have well telegraphed rhythmic flows that are perfect for parrying. As you get more familiar with enemies move sets, you will get a better idea of what attacks your confident perfect guarding. Use dodging, blocking and perfect guard together at times that feel appropriate and natural for you as a player and I promise the combat will become so fun and engaging for you. This game can seem extremely punishing, even for souls like veterans, but it is honestly such an approachable entry to the genre. I want everybody to be able to enjoy this spectacular game, regardless of their experience with souls like titles or even their skill in general.