There is something undeniably addictive about the crisp, rhythmic 'parry' that sends an enemy's attack spiralling into thin air. Deflecting a strike to leave your opponent wide open, only to deliver a crushing counter-attack, is arguably the pinnacle of gaming ecstasy. It is exactly why masterpieces like 'Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice' or 'Sifu' received such rapturous applause. With that in mind, this week's [Game Recs] highlights five action titles where the parry is not just a mechanic—it is the main event.

First up is the action RPG released in August 2022 for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC, 'Thymesia'. It currently holds a 'Very Positive' rating on Steam (82% positive from 9,457 reviews). Set in a plague-ridden kingdom, you play as 'Corvus' on a quest to recover lost memories. While some players note that the polish wanes slightly towards the end, the combat framework—which many rightfully compare to the brilliance of Sekiro—is masterfully crafted.

The standout feature is the 'Wound' system, reminiscent of Sekiro's 'Posture'. It is a separate gauge from health; deplete it through well-timed parries and relentless aggression, and you can execute a devastating finishing move. Toss in feathers for ranged attacks and the ability to steal plague weapons from foes, and you have a robust combat loop that balances depth and brutal satisfaction.

'Nine Sols' is a Metroidvania action game released last May for PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC, currently boasting a 'Very Positive' rating on Steam (94% positive from 38,381 reviews). It introduces a unique 'Tao-Punk' setting, blending Taoist mythology with cyberpunk aesthetics. As the forgotten hero 'Yi', you seek revenge against nine rulers in the realm of New Kunlun. The hand-drawn artwork is nothing short of gorgeous.

The developers wear their Sekiro inspiration on their sleeve, making parrying the absolute heartbeat of the game. Deflect an attack with precise timing to build up 'Qi', which you can then unleash as explosive talismans for massive damage. With platforming elements like air dashes and wall-running, the combat is lightning-fast, providing a thrilling dance against ancient, intimidating bosses.

'NanoApostle' is a 2D boss-rush action title released in September 2024 for PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC. It maintains a 'Very Positive' rating on Steam (94% positive from 1,024 reviews). You control 'Anita', a girl who wakes up in a mysterious research facility and must escape alongside a sentient nano-machine named 'Apostle'. It is a pure, focused gauntlet against powerful bio-weapon bosses where mastering patterns is the key to survival.

As a boss-rush game, it doesn't pull its punches regarding difficulty. However, the 'Module' passive skill system allows for enough flexibility that many consider it the most approachable entry in the genre. You will be weaving parries, melee strikes, and grapple-hook maneuvers into a seamless flow, specifically targeting 'destruction points' to land that final, satisfying blow.

'GRIME' is a Metroidvania known for its surreal, grotesque 3D environments. It launched in August 2021 for PC and Nintendo Switch, earning a 'Very Positive' rating on Steam (86% positive from 4,271 reviews). You are thrust into an alien world where you must carve a path through enemies using 'living' weapons that shift form—like a sword turning into a whip—all while soaking in the bizarre, unsettling art style.

Your own attacks feel deliberately weighty and slow, meaning reckless aggression is a death sentence. Instead, the 'Absorb' mechanic—a heavy-duty parry—is your best friend. Time it right, and you don't just stop the attack; you stagger the enemy, trigger limb destruction, refill your health, and gain extra XP. Mastering that absorb window is the difference between life and death.

Finally, we have the action-adventure title released in August 2023 for PC, 'En Garde!', carrying a 'Very Positive' rating on Steam (91% positive from 3,541 reviews). Set in 17th-century Spain, it follows the legendary fencer 'Adalia' fighting against tyranny. With its vibrant cartoon visuals and witty character banter, the game feels like a high-budget comedic swashbuckler brought to life.

Combat is a nimble, fast-paced affair focused on rapier duels and crisp parries. While you can build up a gauge for stylish special moves, the game encourages you to be clever—why just fence when you can toss a wine barrel or drop a chandelier on your foes? Its fluid, snappy combat ensures you will never have a dull moment in this punchy adventure.