For my 2nd run I wanted to stick to short sword + shield instead of the longsword (and use a mace in addition)
But the only difference I can see is that my enemies are out of reach in mid-combo.
I mean yes, arming swords are obviously inferior to long swords when used as single weapon, but the one-handed sword has the advantage of shields, but…what’s the point?
Why should I use a shield? A can parry with the long sword as well…
To me, rabbit jabbing is the point of short sword shield combo (killed Runt w one jab w Stinger in HC). The shield is just to stop from getting wrecked while you approach
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Shields have higher defense ratings than most weapons for purposes of melee combat. Only the best longswords are comparable to the midrange shield defense-wise. Before you level up your defense stat you’d better use a shield for melee combat.
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Axes and maces (along with some one handed swords) have a negligible defense stat, you could technically use them to block attacks, but you probably will fail to do so.
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Shields will take on the majority of punishment during a duel allowing you to save your weapon. Even in the 90-100% durability range weapon degradation has visible effect of dealt damage.
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You will often encounter a mix of melee and ranged opponents, you can’t deflect arrows unless you have a shield.
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There’s a perk “stronghold” allowing you to block with a shield for a low stamina cost.
You should have at least one longsword and torch to fight at night (longswords are the only weapons with a good defense stat) a shield (in case you fight archers) and possibly a one handed weapons (swords are not the best against heavy plate armor and you can’t do combos with longsword and shield).