overguarding

Overguarding is a defensive tactic primarily seen in video games, particularly those with real-time combat systems. It describes a player or character's action of initiating a defensive stance or ability immediately after successfully blocking or parrying an opponent's attack. The core idea is to capitalize on the brief window of opportunity that follows a successful defense, often by deploying another defensive maneuver before the opponent can recover and launch a new offensive sequence.

This strategy is often employed against aggressive opponents who tend to press their advantage. By overguarding, a player can disrupt the opponent's rhythm and potentially bait them into making predictable, punishable attacks. In some games, overguarding might involve holding a block button, activating a specific defensive skill, or performing a quick evasive action. The effectiveness and specific implementation of overguarding vary significantly depending on the game's mechanics, including attack recovery times, stamina systems, and the properties of defensive abilities.

While useful for controlling the pace of combat and creating openings, overguarding can also be risky. If timed incorrectly, or if the opponent anticipates the move, the player performing the overguard may become vulnerable to specific counter-attacks or grab moves. Mastering overguarding often involves a deep understanding of the game's combat system and the opponent's tendencies.