Wondering how to pull off a powerful parry in Ninja Gaiden 4? This essential counterattack mechanic has evolved throughout the series, but it remains vital for any aspiring Master Ninja. Whether you’re a veteran of the classic block-and-counter or Ninja Gaiden 3’s parry stance, you’ll find NG4’s parry system surprisingly intuitive and more approachable than ever before.
The parry in Ninja Gaiden 4 shares similarities with a standard block, effectively negating incoming damage. However, instead of a purely defensive maneuver, it’s an aggressive counter that turns your opponent’s momentum against them. This technique is fantastic for keeping up the pressure in a fight, but it comes with significant risk: mistiming a parry can lead to a direct hit, which might be lethal on harder difficulties. Read on to discover how to master this crucial skill and become a parry expert in Ninja Gaiden 4.
Executing a Parry in Ninja Gaiden 4
To successfully parry in Ninja Gaiden 4, you must strike at the exact moment your enemy attacks. This synchronized strike will cause your weapons to violently clash, deflecting their assault and creating an opening.
This fundamental parry technique is yours from the very beginning of your journey; no need to spend precious NinjaCoin or Weapon EXP to unlock it. Although Ninja Gaiden 4’s parry window is generally more forgiving than what you might find in many challenging action games, dedicating time in the Training Room is highly recommended to truly hone your timing.
Elevate your parrying prowess by acquiring some of Ninja Gaiden 4’s finest combat skills. The initial Fatal Flash skill provides a straightforward follow-up attack. However, once unlocked, you can access increasingly powerful Bloodraven variants. The pinnacle, Perfect Fatal Flash (Bloodraven Form), unleashes devastating area-of-effect dismemberment and even triggers Bloodbath Kills during your Berserk state, allowing you to decimate entire groups of enemies with a single, perfectly timed parry.
To acquire these advanced techniques, seek out Raven Mentor Tyrant. You can unlock Fatal Flash for 900 NinjaCoin, followed by Fatal Flash (Bloodraven Form) for 9,000 NinjaCoin, Perfect Fatal Flash for 27,000 NinjaCoin, and finally, Perfect Fatal Flash (Bloodraven Form) for 36,000 NinjaCoin. In total, you’ll need a hefty 72,900 NinjaCoin, so dedicate yourself to side missions and Purgatory challenges to amass the currency required for the ultimate parrying abilities.
With your newfound mastery of the Ninja Gaiden 4 parry, ensure your framerate is stable to perfectly execute those crucial timings. For more advanced combat techniques, explore our guide on how to perform the iconic Guillotine Throw, and truly dominate this highly anticipated ninja game sequel.