Post
The hidden toughness value that decides whether a hit interrupts you or you power through like a walking brick wall.
A poise system measures resistance to stagger or interruption. High poise lets heavy characters, armor sets, or enemies keep attacking through lighter hits; low poise means every poke can break momentum. The system creates a tradeoff between speed, protection, and commitment. It is especially important in melee games where attack animations are risky and interruption timing defines the feel of every weapon.
Example
Dark Souls made poise infamous because armor could let players tank hits that would stagger lighter builds. Elden Ring expanded the idea with stance damage on enemies and different break thresholds. Monster Hunter's super armor windows serve a similar purpose, letting some weapon moves absorb interruption during committed attacks.
Why it matters
Poise is how melee games give weight meaning. Without interruption rules, all attacks feel floaty; with clear poise rules, weapon size, armor choice, and timing become real strategic commitments.
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