God of War Ragnarok Runic Attacks: Inputs, XP Upgrades & Safe Windows

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God of War Ragnarok Runic Attacks: Inputs, XP Upgrades & Safe Windows

Read the equipped Runic attack's description before treating it as an emergency button. Choose the attack for the opening you can create, not only its largest damage number.

Default PlayStation inputs

For the Leviathan Axe and Blades of Chaos, PlayStation's guide gives hold L1, then press R1 for the light Runic attack and hold L1, then press R2 for the heavy Runic attack. Keep L1 held while pressing the attack button. Check your current bindings on a remapped controller or PC.

Inspect the individual upgrade

Santa Monica Studio explains that Runic attacks can be upgraded with XP through their entries in the Weapons tab. Read the next level's effect and cost before spending. An ability you frequently land may justify investment before one you rarely find time to use.

Choose a window rather than forcing one

Observe the enemy's recovery after an attack. Test a short Runic action during an opening you can consistently recognize. If a longer action leaves you exposed, use it after creating a better opening rather than assuming the animation protects you from every response.

Give the equipped pair distinct jobs

Compare how the attacks start, what area they affect and where Kratos ends up. A compact response and a broader option can be more useful than two attacks that both require an opening you seldom get.

Review the complete exchange

1. Note the enemy action that created the opening.
2. Use the chosen Runic attack.
3. Observe whether you can defend the follow-up.
4. Compare a shorter option if the trade is consistently poor.

Keep the same encounter and equipment while comparing. These are activation and selection principles; they do not establish an exact cooldown or guaranteed stagger for every Runic attack and boss.

Official references

• PlayStation Runic input guide
• Developer XP upgrade guide