Slashing, stabbing, and shooting are not all that combat systems in video games have to offer – bashing with a shield or a blunt weapon may also come in handy. Let’s explore this term together!
What is bash in gaming?
Bash attack is a type of melee attack, often performed with a shield, that is usually used to interrupt or stagger enemies instead of dealing heavy damage. This attack may:
- interrupt actions like spell casting or power attack charging,
- break the enemy’s defenses,
- stun, knock back, or stagger an enemy, or otherwise make them vulnerable.
Bash attacks typically rely on precise timing and good stamina management. They serve as a form of reward for skillfully performing such move, and often depend on learning the enemy’s attack pattern.
Bash attack meaning in games
This type of attack is present in many video games, especially action RPGs. It often serves as an important part of the combat system, giving players more control in intense fights and turning defensive action into potentially offensive maneuvers.
Here are some examples of popular video games featuring the bash attack mechanics:
- Skyrim: shield bash allows players to perform a block, then quickly strike forward to stagger an enemy, leaving them vulnerable. As one of the perks of the Block skill, Power Bash consumes more stamina and staggers enemies for a noticeably longer time than a regular bash.
- Dark Souls: parry and riposte is a form of critical attack. Players may deflect an attack and stun an enemy by parrying with their left-handed weapon or shield, while the riposte is a special attack that cannot be interrupted – it is executed directly after a parry, dealing high damage. Additionally, some shields can be used to perform a heavy shield bash that staggers or knocks enemies off balance.
- Dragon Age: Inquisition: Shield Bash serves as a Warrior ability, allowing players to slam into an enemy with their shield. Such move deals moderate damage and interrupts enemy’s abilities, e.g. charging up an attack or casting a spell.