How Hardening works
- Triggers instantly, even mid-dodge or mid-attack animation
- Petrified state absorbs one hit without damage or stagger
- Has a cooldown — timing it is a resource decision
Core techniques
- Trade-hit: start your attack, Harden through the enemy's interrupt, finish the swing
- Panic tank: Harden when a dodge fails — converts a death into a reset
- Recovery cancel: Harden to cut the endlag of a heavy weapon before the enemy punishes
Parry and seals
Light attacks can be parried for a punish window; heavy attacks generally cannot — Harden through those instead. Community guides around launch reference 'seals' as a defensive layer tied to Shell abilities; verified details will be added here as the meta settles.
Practice Hardening on early overworld enemies before spending it against bosses — the cooldown punishes experimental use mid-fight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Harden during a dodge?
Yes — Hardening works mid-dodge, which makes it the universal panic button.
Does Hardening work on all attacks?
It absorbs a hit, but massive multi-hit combos can catch you during cooldown. Use it for single decisive blows.