Blocking is an essential mechanic in The Forest that can be the difference between life and death, especially on harder difficulties. This guide provides an in-depth analysis of blocking mechanics, weapon effectiveness, and how different health levels affect your ability to mitigate damage.

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Is Blocking Worth It?

Yes! Blocking is highly effective, especially when wearing armor. When properly executed, blocking can negate all damage in many cases, making it a crucial survival technique. While some weapons are better suited for blocking than others, even weaker blocking weapons offer some level of protection.

Testing Methodology

To ensure accurate results, testing was performed using cannibals trapped in noose traps to eliminate inconsistencies in attack behavior. Various weapons, including clubs, axes, and even unconventional blocking tools like bones and animal parts, were tested for effectiveness.

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Weapon Blocking Effectiveness (Worst to Best)

Weapons That Offer Minimal Blocking

1. Katana & Machete
   • Despite being labeled as having no blocking ability, they actually provide some damage reduction.
2. Bone
   • Slightly better than Katana and Machete but still not a reliable blocking tool.
3. Plain Axe
   • Offers moderate blocking but not ideal for sustained defense.
4. Leg & Arm (Cannibal Limbs)
   • While amusing, these block only slightly more than weaker weapons.
5. Tennis Racket
   • Surprisingly decent blocking capability, uses minimal stamina.

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Mid-Tier Blocking Weapons

6. Stick & Upgraded Stick
   • The upgraded stick blocks significantly more than the regular stick.
7. Crafted Axe
   • A viable option for blocking, similar to upgraded stick.
8. Crafted Club
   • Provides the same level of block as the crafted axe and upgraded stick.
9. Modern Axe
   • One of the best overall weapons in the game with solid blocking capabilities.

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Max Block Weapons (100% Damage Negation)

10. Club (Cannibal Weapon)
    • One of the best blocking weapons in the game.
11. Rusty Axe
    • Offers 100% damage negation, making it a defensive powerhouse.
12. Turtle Shell
    • Functions similarly to the Rusty Axe, making it a perfect shield.

💡 Tip: If you plan on fighting in tight caves or tunnels, using one of these max-block weapons will allow you to survive indefinitely as long as you position yourself correctly.

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The Effect of Health on Blocking

One of the most unusual findings during testing was how your current health level affects blocking efficiency:

• 100 to 60 HP: Weakest blocking effectiveness.
• 60 to 10 HP: Strongest blocking effectiveness.
• Below 10 HP: Blocking returns to its weakest state.

This mechanic is highly unusual and even mathematicians consulted could not fully explain the logic behind it.

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How Blocking Works Against Different Attacks

Fully Blockable Attacks

✅ Standard Cannibal Attacks ✅ Mutant Baby Leaps ✅ Club, Axe, and Racket Strikes

Partially or Non-Blockable Attacks

❌ Cowman Charges & Stomps – These deal unavoidable impact damage. ❌ Fire Attacks – Fire damage cannot be blocked. ❌ Drowning Damage – No form of blocking can mitigate water-related deaths. ❌ Fall Damage – Falling cannot be mitigated with blocking.

💡 Tip: Always face an enemy directly while blocking, as blocking effectiveness drops when hit from the sides or back.

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Armor and Blocking Synergy

Wearing armor significantly enhances blocking effectiveness. Even weaker armor types like deer skin offer full damage negation when combined with blocking. Armor prevents damage before it is applied to the player’s health, making a well-armored, block-heavy playstyle incredibly effective.

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Conclusion: Best Blocking Strategy

1. Use max block weapons (Rusty Axe, Club, or Turtle Shell) whenever possible.
2. Keep your health between 60-10 HP for optimal blocking efficiency.
3. Face your attackers head-on to ensure full damage negation.
4. Utilize armor for added damage resistance.
5. Time your blocks carefully against larger enemies like Armsy and Virginia to avoid chip damage.

Mastering blocking mechanics will drastically improve your survivability in The Forest. Whether playing on Hard Mode or Hard Survival, understanding how to effectively negate damage can make the difference between life and death.

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