Combat in Where Winds Meet blends traditional action RPG mechanics with wuxia-inspired flow. Deflecting sits at the center of that system. If you learn when and how to use it, fights become faster, cleaner, and far more controlled. This guide explains exactly how deflect works, how it differs from blocking and dodging, and how to use it reliably in real combat.
Overview of deflect mechanics
| Mechanic | Purpose | Risk level | Key requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deflect / Parry | Fully negate damage and create counter window | High | Precise timing |
| Block | Reduce incoming damage | Medium | Stamina |
| Dodge | Avoid damage with movement | Low–Medium | Positioning |
What deflect means in Where Winds Meet
Deflect is a timed defensive action performed just before an enemy attack connects. When executed correctly, the incoming strike is completely nullified instead of merely reduced. Most successful deflects briefly stagger the enemy, letting you retaliate safely.
Unlike blocking, deflecting does not simply absorb damage. It interrupts momentum and shifts the fight in your favor. However, mistiming it usually means you take the full hit, making it a precision-based skill rather than a safety net.
Deflect colors explained in Where Winds Meet (Image credit: Everstone Studio | Via: YouTube - MySpaceGuide)
Deflect colors explained
In WWM, deflect usually is based on the type of attack the enemy is doing. These are color-coded, and therefore, you can know if you should deflect or dodge the attack by just seeing the color.
| Attack color cue | Meaning in combat | Can you deflect? | Recommended response |
|---|---|---|---|
| White / Normal attack glow | Standard melee or weapon strike | Yes | Deflect at the last moment or block safely |
| Red glow | Heavy attack with longer wind-up | Yes (tight timing) | Deflect if confident, otherwise dodge |
| Gold / Yellow glow | Unblockable or armor-breaking attack | No | Dodge or reposition immediately |
| No glow (fast strings) | Rapid or chained attacks | Situational | Dodge or disengage, then counter |
How deflection works in Where Winds Meet
Step 1: Read the enemy’s attack telegraph
Enemies signal attacks through wind-ups, stance changes, weapon glints, or animation pauses. These cues are your primary indicator that a deflect window is approaching.
Step 2: Input the parry at the last moment
Press the deflect/parry button just before the attack lands. The window is narrow, closer to a “last-frame” input than a generous block timing. In basic keybinds, deflect is on E on the keyboard and L1 on the controller.
Step 3: Confirm the deflect and counter
A successful deflect cancels damage and often staggers the attacker. This is your opportunity to respond with light combos, heavy strikes, or ability usage depending on your weapon and build.
Step 4: Reset positioning
After the counter window, reposition or prepare for chained enemy attacks. Deflecting does not make you invincible beyond the initial exchange.
Attacks you cannot deflect
Not every attack in Where Winds Meet is deflectable. Knowing when not to deflect is just as important.
| Attack type | Can you deflect? | What to do instead |
|---|---|---|
| Standard melee strikes | Yes | Deflect or block |
| Multi-hit flurries | Partially | Dodge or disengage |
| Heavy unblockable (gold cues) | No | Dodge |
| Area-of-effect slams | No | Create distance |
What is Assist Deflection in Where Winds Meet
In Where Winds Meet, Assist Deflection is a context-based parry that triggers when an ally (NPC or co-op partner) is about to be hit. Instead of reacting only to attacks aimed at you, the game gives you a brief chance to step in and deflect on their behalf.
Assist deflection (Image credit: Everstone Studio | Via: YouTube - MySpaceGuide)
Practical tips for deflects
- Practice on slower humanoid enemies before elite or boss fights
- Watch enemy shoulders and weapon tips, not your own character
- Avoid spamming the parry button; single, deliberate inputs work best
- Save deflects for predictable attacks rather than chaotic mob swings
Should you aim for deflects early
Deflect or parry is one of the major combat flows in Where Winds Meet. While you are allowed to learn it step-by-step, if you get your hands on these basic strategies, it is always better. The game prompts you to learn these first things as the game begins. Deflects help you sustain health, and counters give you that sweet victory. In case you cannot differentiate between when to deflect or attack, you can always enable assist deflect, which gives you a window to time and think your attacks properly. In my opinion, deflect, counter, and attacks are best learned early, keeping your PvP and PvE fights balanced and your win streak going!
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