Elden Ring was released today, and fans are amassing in the Lands Between in the millions. While it is admittedly a challenging game, there is a lot of beauty and exploration in the world. However, it may seem like getting to new points on the map are impossible due to the level of challenge that many of the enemies pose. Defeating these enemies takes a certain amount of practice, knowledge of enemy attacks, and patience.
In this guide, we’ll teach you how to break an enemy’s shield or guard in Elden Ring to get close enough for an attack. Before that, make sure you have the best shield and weapon for your character’s stats. It’ll also help if you improve any armaments at a smithing table, so you go into battle with your best defense.
Break Shield and Guard
If you want to break an enemy’s stance in Elden Ring, you’ll need first to make sure you have a shield equipped. Once the enemy attacks, press L1, LB, or RMB to block at the right moment and break their stance. Once they’ve been stunned, follow up by pressing the R1, L1, or Shift + LMB to attack with a Guard Counter.
More Info on Breaking Shield and Guard in Elden Ring

The combat in FromSoftware’s games is known to be challenging and maybe a little anger-inducing at times. However, the theme is that one has to try again with new knowledge each time they fail. Players who take the time to practice and learn what the game has to teach will be adequately rewarded in the end. A big part of that is mastering the combat basics like breaking a shield enemy’s stance and following up with a proper attach.
Another tip for dealing with enemies with large shields is to get behind them when they strike. While the enemy is waiting, the shield will likely face you at all times. But if you can jump behind your foe when they hit, you’ll be able to get some good strikes and may not need to break their shield stance after all.
Players who don’t have shields will have a little harder time trying to break the enemy’s stance, but spells serve as another asset you have in battle. If you can spawn a spirit to your aid to distract the enemy, they’ll be none the wiser when you strike from their blind spot.
That’s all you need to know about breaking the shield and guard of enemies in Elden Ring. We’ve got more details on the game, check out guides on how to get Beast Claw and how to craft arrows!
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