Open-World Games With The Best Shield Combat

Key Takeaways

Melee combat is a popular staple in gaming, offering tactile satisfaction.
Shields in some open-world titles provide engaging combat mechanics.
Games like Skyrim & God of War showcase the satisfaction of using shields in combat.

As a seasoned gamer who has spent countless hours wielding everything from swords to spells, I must say that the joy of using shields in video games is often overlooked. The tactile satisfaction of deflecting an enemy’s attack or delivering a powerful shield bash never fails to make my heart race.

Melee fighting has been a key element of gaming experiences, both in fantasy worlds and beyond, ever since the birth of video games. Although it takes various shapes, players universally appreciate melee fights for their tangible feel and rewarding sensations. Whether you’re involved in intricate ‘sword versus shield’ exchanges or employing a massive weapon to vanquish a beast, there’s no denying that engaging in satisfying melee combat plays an essential role in gaming enjoyment.

A frequently underestimated aspect in melee battles, particularly within fantasy open-worlds, is the strategic use of shields. Contrary to their defensive appearance, numerous open-world games offer intriguing and immersive shield combat systems. These systems encompass traditional defensive tactics, heavy emphasis on parrying, or even turning the shield into an offensive tool at times.

4 Skyrim

A Classic Shield System

Open-World Games With The Best Shield Combat

The Elder Scrolls series is well known, with its fifth installment achieving recognition in the gaming world. Skyrim offers a vast open-world environment along with rich and engaging roleplaying experiences. One notable aspect is the variety in character development, allowing players to master a wide range of weapon types.

In the game Skyrim, there’s an entire skill system devoted to defense through blocking. This system, as its name implies, decreases the amount of damage you take when blocking and enables the strategic use of shields. Additionally, players have the option to enhance their skills to execute a powerful shield-bash move, creating a thrilling combat sequence where enemies are stunned by a shield-bash before being defeated with the main weapon.

3 Dragon’s Dogma 2

Fun Shield Skills

The eagerly anticipated sequel to the original “Dragon’s Dogma”, namely “Dragon’s Dogma 2“, has been launched. It is a visually stunning and intricate Role-Playing Game (RPG) set in an expansive fantasy realm. In this game, players gather a group of assistants, referred to as pawns, with the aim of creating a diverse team that spans multiple character classes or vocations, as they are called within “Dragon’s Dogma 2“.

In Dragon’s Dogma 2, one occupation is referred to as the Fighter, and this character typically employs a sword and shield, reminiscent of classic fantasy’s ‘sword and shield’ warriors. What makes Dragon’s Dogma 2 stand out is that certain roles have class-specific abilities that complement other classes. For instance, the Fighter can utilize an ability called “Launchboard” with their shield, sending party members flying into the air. While in the air themselves, they can use their shield to soften their landing, minimizing the damage sustained upon impact.

2 Elden Ring

Take A Break From Dodging

Elden Ring, a highly praised game from From Software’s collection of “Soulsborne” titles, offers an immersive and captivating open-world setting. It also features a complex advancement system that allows players a great deal of freedom to customize their character, with numerous items and equipment to discover throughout the game world. This means that each player can create their own unique character in Elden Ring.

A particular type of gameplay incorporates the employment of protective barriers, or shields. Unlike many From Software games where players predominantly dodge enemy attacks, Elden Ring offers a more substantial role for shields. Players can either strategically use parries and precise timing, or bravely utilize their shield to absorb the majority of incoming damage. For those seeking gratifying shield combat in Elden Ring, such experiences will not disappoint. The game provides towering shields that absorb significant amounts of damage, smaller ones for precise parry timing, as well as a range of options in between.

1 Assassin’s Creed Valhalla

Why Not Use Two Shields?

In the current Assassin’s Creed series, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla stood out as a game that embraced an action role-playing format instead of the stealth-based games from its past. This title, developed by Ubisoft, was set in the Viking age and offered players a more aggressive and proactive approach to combat. They could wield a variety of authentic weapons suitable for that era during battle.

One such example, though not necessarily the first thing to come to mind when thinking of Vikings, is the shield. Not only could the shield be used both defensively and offensively, with brutal and satisfying output, but the nature of the weapon system in Valhalla allowed for a rather unique playstyle. Should they so choose, players could equip a shield in both the left and right hand, dishing out satisfying combinations and attacks with a shield in either hand.

Special Mention: God of War

2018’s
God of War
is a special mention as it is a borderline open-world game.

The God of War franchise, a long-established and adored action series, has recently undergone a significant revival in both cultural and critical spheres following the launch of its 2018 self-titled installment. In this game, an aged Kratos and his son Atreus journey through a sprawling and mythical open world immersed in Norse mythology’s lore.

As a dedicated fan, I must say that Kratos is renowned for his formidable array of weapons and powers, but it’s the shield in God of War that truly sets it apart. While the Blades of Chaos are iconic to the series, the shield introduces a richer layer of combat. It’s not just about perfect parries and blocks; it also allows for some thrilling offensive maneuvers.

2024-11-11 09:33