article
**
MHW Newcomers: Why Guard Up is Your Worst Habit?
**
MHW Newcomers: Why Guard Up is Your Worst Habit? is a common block mechanic. It leaves you open to tracking punishment and whiff punishment.
New players rely on Guard Up for safety. Research shows this habit makes punishments far worse. You trade brief safety for long damage.
Shields need precise timing, not constant hold. Drifting and side stepping read moves for better counters. Mix feints and parry strings when possible.
This style reduces hits and keeps you loose. Studies indicate faster reactions and smarter spacing win fights. One line takeaway: Guard less, read more.
**
Q: Why is holding Guard so bad?
Held Guard drains stamina and hides enemy tells. You react slower and eat combo strings.
Q: What should I do instead?
Bait, dodge, then counter. Use parry timing and rolls to control space and punish freely.
