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Combat mechanics in mortal shell: why do they feel off?

Combat Concerns in Mortal Shell: Players Call Gameplay Whacky | Usability Issues Spark Discussion

By

Sophie Patel

Jul 26, 2025, 07:45 AM

Edited By

Carlos Gomez

2 minutes of duration

A player character in Mortal Shell dodging an enemy attack during a fierce battle, showcasing the game's combat mechanics.
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In a lively exchange on forums, new players are expressing frustration over Mortal Shell's combat mechanics. With critical feedback on dodging and staggering mechanics, the ongoing conversation highlights challenges faced by newcomers in the popular souls-like game.

Players Share Combat Frustrations

Many users have taken to forums to voice their experiences, particularly with the combat system feeling unbalanced. One player remarked, "the dodging is bad sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't." This sentiment paints a bleak picture for those trying to engage with the gameโ€™s challenging environmentsโ€”especially when facing bosses.

Key Issues Identified:

  • Dodging Mechanics: Newcomers claim dodging lacks reliability. One cited player mentioned, "Dodging is horrible; it only sometimes works."

  • Stagger Problems: Players report that larger enemies, particularly bosses, don't stagger easily, making fights feel more punishing. "He donโ€™t get staggered, and the harden more useless than the dodge," one frustrated gamer shared.

  • Combat Mechanics: While some suggest players should focus more on the harden mechanic, others disagree, noting, "The harden mechanics donโ€™t do much honestly."

"Be sure to parry; every move that the sigil doesn't absorb can be parried and reposted for some health." - Community tip

Creative Solutions Suggested

Despite frustrations, the community isnโ€™t without solutions. Users are advising each other to get creative with the harden mechanic and exploit openings in enemy attack patterns. This guidance aims to support new players in overcoming combat challenges and maximizing game enjoyment.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Many players spotlight dodging and staggering issues as key problems.

  • โœ… Tips point towards utilizing the harden mechanic combined with smart timing.

  • ๐Ÿ“Š Strategies include exploiting enemies' predictable movesets.

While players express challenges within Mortal Shell, the dialogue indicates not just a critique but also a community eager to share insights. As more seek to conquer the gameโ€™s various trials, perhaps these tips will turn the tides for frustrated newcomers.

What Lies Ahead for Mortal Shell's Combat System?

Thereโ€™s a strong chance developers will soon address the combat concerns raised by the community. Given the volume of player feedback on forums, itโ€™s likely that updates focused on dodging and staggering mechanics will roll out within the next few months. Industry experts estimate around an 80% probability that game patches will enhance these features to better accommodate newcomers. If implemented thoughtfully, these changes could restore player confidence and lead to a more balanced gameplay experience. Meanwhile, the communityโ€™s creative tips and engagement with the game could foster a culture where players feel more empowered to tackle the challenges ahead.

A Lesson from the Great Penguin Dilemma

This situation recalls the Great Penguin Dilemma of the early 2000s, when wildlife experts grappled with how to rehabilitate the foreign habitat of the Cape penguin due to environmental changes. Just as gamers are now battling unreliable mechanics in Mortal Shell, those experts confronted unpredictable factors in wildlife behavior that hindered their rehabilitation efforts. The parallels are clear; both communities faced daunting challenges yet emerged stronger through collaboration and shared knowledge. This historic determination can inspire current playersโ€”they too can adapt and overcome, finding their footing as they navigate the tumultuous waters of Mortal Shell's gameplay.