Introduction

Defense in Granblue Fantasy Versus Rising can be intimidating, especially with the extended offensive sequences many characters can unleash. However, understanding the defensive tools available and when to use them can drastically improve your survivability and turn the tide of battle. This guide explores fundamental and advanced defensive techniques, focusing on countering key offensive tools like 6XL, managing resources effectively, and making smart decisions under pressure.

1. Mashing: When and How to Use It Effectively

Mashing is often viewed negatively, but when used correctly, it can interrupt pressure strings and force your opponent to respect your defense.

• Close Light Attacks: Most characters have a 5-frame close light attack, making it the fastest option for interrupting gaps.
• Far Light Attacks: Typically 6 frames but still effective for stopping dash-ins and maintaining space.
• Recommended String: 2L > 5L > Special (such as a Recca) can create space and keep the opponent honest.

2. Reversals and Their Limitations

Reversals are powerful defensive tools but require smart usage to avoid being punished.

• Light DP: No longer invincible in Rising but fast enough to challenge gaps.
• Medium DP: 9-frame startup with invincibility—ideal for wake-up if your character has one.
• Heavy DP: Slower with 11-frame startup; use as a delayed option to catch opponents extending pressure.
• Ultimate Skills: Typically have 8-frame startup and invincibility, making them a high-risk, high-reward option for escaping pressure.

3. Brave Counter: Managing Gems Wisely

Brave Counter is one of the most powerful defensive tools, offering frame advantage and a knockdown on counter hit.

• On Block: +6 advantage, allowing you to press medium attacks or dash forward to regain pressure.
• On Counter Hit: Causes a knockdown, enabling a follow-up offense.
• Gem Management: Avoid spending gems too early—running out leaves you vulnerable to Raging Strike follow-ups.

4. Dealing with 6XL: A Key Offensive Threat

6XL is one of the most oppressive tools due to its speed and plus frames.

• Direct Counters:
  • 5L: Fastest option to interrupt 6XL before it becomes active.
  • 5M or Sweep: Effective if spaced correctly.
• On Block: Since 6XL is +2, avoid mashing immediately. Recognize patterns and be prepared to tech throws or block frame traps.
• Throw vs. Frame Trap: Take a throw occasionally rather than risking a counter-hit combo by mashing.

5. Delay Tech and Delay Mash: Mixing Up Defense

• Delay Tech: Tech throws as late as possible to cover strikes and throws, minimizing risks.
• Delay Mash: A delayed jab can catch opponents attempting stagger pressure.

6. Using Spot Dodge and Roll

• Spot Dodge: Effective against projectiles but not recommended against 6XL due to its fast recovery.
• Roll: Useful for bypassing projectiles into a punish but weak against lows.

7. Resource Management: When to Use Supers and Gems

• Supers: Avoid wake-up supers unless it’s a last-resort scenario to avoid chip-out.
• Gem Conservation: Save gems for Brave Counters against moves that reset pressure.

Conclusion

Effective defense in Granblue Fantasy Versus Rising is about managing resources wisely, recognizing offensive patterns, and using defensive tools at the right time. By mastering these techniques, you’ll transform defense from a weakness into a strength. For more advanced guides, stay tuned!