Space Marine 2: Mastering Parrying and Executions

In Space Marine 2, players are often swarmed by Tyranids, many of which rely on relentless melee attacks to overpower their enemies. While some may attempt to eliminate foes before they can strike, the sheer number of Tyranids attacking from all sides can make this a daunting task.

Dodging is a useful option to avoid damage, but parrying offers a powerful way to shift the battle in your favor. Well-timed parries can set up enemies for devastating executions, which not only look spectacular but also provide a valuable health boost. Learning how to parry and execute effectively is crucial to survival in the heat of battle.

How to Parry Attacks in Space Marine 2

In Space Marine 2, you’ll face both larger Tyranid Warriors and smaller gaunts, each requiring slightly different timing for successful parries. The key to parrying is watching for enemies to flash blue—this signals the perfect moment to counter their attack. Parrying a blue-flash attack will either break a Tyranid Warrior’s defense or outright kill smaller enemies like gaunts.

To parry, simply press the following buttons based on your platform right before the enemy attack hits:

- PlayStation: L1

- Xbox: LB

- PC: C

It’s important to note that parrying a blue-highlighted attack requires precise timing, often earlier than expected. You’ll need to parry as the enemy lunges toward you, but before they begin their swing.

Even attacks without the blue flash can be parried, but the results vary. A parry against a gaunt’s basic attack can either injure or instantly kill them with a less dramatic animation. However, parrying a normal attack from a Tyranid Warrior will only block the hit without disrupting their combo or defense, leaving you vulnerable to further strikes.

Red-flashing attacks, however, cannot be parried and must be dodged instead.

How to Perform Executions in Space Marine 2

Executing enemies in Space Marine 2 not only delivers a satisfying kill but also restores your health—a critical advantage in the midst of a fight. To perform an execution, approach an enemy that’s flashing red and press:

- PlayStation: R3

- Xbox: Right joystick

- PC: E

While executions are flashy, they can be just as effective for replenishing health as using melee or ranged attacks to finish off weakened enemies. To force an enemy into an execution state, you’ll need to:

- Hit them with multiple shots.

- Disrupt their Synaptic connection.

- Strike them several times with a melee weapon.

- Land a grenade or explosive hit that doesn’t finish them off.

- Parry a blue-flash attack on an already weakened foe.

Larger enemies like Tyranid Warriors only need to have their health reduced before they can be executed. However, landing a parry on a blue-flash attack when they are weak will greatly speed up this process. On the other hand, smaller gaunts often die once their Synaptic connection is broken, but any that remain can be executed easily for a quick health boost after a challenging battle.

Mastering parries and executions in Space Marine 2 will give you the edge needed to conquer the Tyranid hordes and come out on top in every fight.