What is the best way to parry attacks from Draugr Elites?

Parrying attacks from Draugr Elites in Valheim requires a combination of proper gear, timing, and understanding of game mechanics. Draugr Elites are formidable enemies found in the Swamp biome, and their attacks deal significant damage if not handled correctly. To effectively parry their strikes, you need a shield with sufficient block power and a weapon capable of dealing high damage during the parry window.\n\nFirst, ensure you have a shield with high block power. The Iron Buckler or Banded Shield are excellent choices for parrying Draugr Elites. The Iron Buckler, crafted with 10 Iron and 4 Fine Wood, is specifically designed for parrying due to its high block armor multiplier. The Banded Shield, crafted with 8 Iron and 4 Fine Wood, offers a balance of block power and durability. Both shields require a Forge to craft, so make sure you have access to one before venturing into the Swamp.\n\nNext, timing is critical for successful parrying. Draugr Elites have a slow but powerful attack animation. Watch for the moment they raise their weapon to strike, and press the right mouse button (or your designated block key) just before their attack lands. A successful parry will stagger the Draugr Elite, leaving them vulnerable to a counterattack. This stagger window is your opportunity to deal significant damage with a weapon like an Iron Mace or Iron Sword.\n\nUnderstanding the game mechanics of parrying is essential. Parrying works by multiplying your shield''s block power based on your skill level and the shield''s block armor multiplier. For example, the Iron Buckler has a 2.5x block armor multiplier, making it ideal for parrying. However, if your block power is insufficient to absorb the full damage of the Draugr Elite''s attack, you will take partial damage and fail to stagger the enemy. Always ensure your shield''s block power exceeds the enemy''s attack damage.\n\nPractical examples can help illustrate this. Imagine you''re exploring the Swamp biome and encounter a Draugr Elite. You equip your Iron Buckler and wait for the enemy to attack. As the Draugr Elite raises its weapon, you time your block perfectly, staggering the enemy. You then follow up with a powerful strike from your Iron Mace, dealing critical damage. This strategy minimizes the risk of taking damage while maximizing your offensive potential.\n\nCommon challenges include mistiming the parry or using a shield with insufficient block power. If you mistime the parry, you may take full damage from the Draugr Elite''s attack, which can be devastating. To avoid this, practice parrying on weaker enemies like regular Draugr before facing Elites. Additionally, ensure your shield is fully upgraded at the Forge to maximize its block power.\n\nFinally, practical tips for parrying Draugr Elites include maintaining high stamina and positioning yourself strategically. Draugr Elites are often found in groups, so try to isolate them to avoid being overwhelmed. Keep your stamina high by consuming foods like Sausages, Turnip Stew, and Carrot Soup, which provide a balance of health and stamina regeneration. This ensures you have enough stamina to parry and counterattack effectively.\n\nIn summary, parrying Draugr Elites requires the right gear, precise timing, and an understanding of game mechanics. Equip a high-block-power shield like the Iron Buckler, time your blocks carefully, and follow up with a powerful weapon to maximize damage. Practice on weaker enemies, upgrade your gear, and manage your stamina to ensure success in the Swamp biome.