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How to Block, Dodge and Counter in Dead Island 2
Dead Island 2

How to Block, Dodge and Counter in Dead Island 2

Learn how to block, dodge, and counter attack in Dead Island 2. Master defensive maneuvers to survive zombie hordes and exploit enemy weaknesses.

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Learn how to block, dodge, and counter attack in Dead Island 2. Master defensive maneuvers to survive zombie hordes and exploit enemy weaknesses.

Walkthrough
  1. 1
    After completing the first story quest 'Flight of the Damned', you'll reach Bel-Air.
  2. 2
    During the second story quest, 'Desperately Seeking Emma', you'll infiltrate a mansion and should unlock either the Block or Dodge skill card, which will be equipped automatically.
  3. 3
    Block by holding !DualSense-L1 / !Xbox-BumperLeft or dodge by pressing the same button.
  4. 4
    You will eventually learn the other defensive ability when you reach level 9.
  5. 5
    To perform a counter attack, block or dodge just before an enemy attack lands.
  6. 6
    A !DualSense-ButtonSquare / !Xbox-ButtonX prompt will appear, indicating the zombie is off-balance and susceptible to a counter attack.
  7. 7
    Press the prompt button to perform a counter attack, which can involve up to three hits and may require pressing !DualSense-R2 / !Xbox-TriggerRight for subsequent attacks.
Tips
  • Blocking negates incoming physical damage while your guard is up, and a well-timed block causes enemies to recoil, leaving them vulnerable to a counter attack.
  • Dodging provides a directional burst to move out of range, but has no invulnerability frames, requiring precise timing to mitigate damage.
  • Blocking is not effective against elemental, ranged, AoE attacks, or attacks from strong enemies like Crushers or “spiky” variants.
  • Dodging excels against enemies whose attacks break block, apex variants, and helps with closing ground with Screamers or escaping Bursters and elemental hazards.
  • For general use, dodging is often better, but blocking reliably enables counter attacks.
  • Skill cards like 'Safety First' can heal you on a well-timed dodge or block, and 'Invigorating' can provide extra healing during a counter attack.
  • Counter attacks deal massive damage, do not drain weapon durability, and can help restore stamina, health, or fury depending on equipped skill cards.
  • Stronger enemies may punch through your guard and are not stunned by dodging, but may still be left off-balance and primed for punishment if you perform a well-timed dodge.

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