Understanding Gradient Attacks and Counters

TL;DR

Gauge Management: Efficiently use skills to fill the Gradient Gauge and plan the timing of Gradient Attacks for maximum impact
Strategic Combos: Since Gradient Attacks don’t end your turn, combine them with other actions to exploit enemy weaknesses.

Relationship Building: Invest time in character relationships to unlock more powerful Gradient Attacks.
There are a total of 9 Gradient Attacks in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, unlock by default or by deepend your bonds with your allies

In Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, combat blends traditional turn-based mechanics with real-time elements, introducing unique features like Gradient Attacks and Gradient Counters. These mechanics add depth and strategy, requiring players to master timing and resource management

What Are Gradient Attacks?

Gradient Attacks are powerful abilities unlocked in Act 2 of the game. To execute them, players must fill the Gradient Gauge by spending Ability Points (AP) on skills. Once the gauge is filled, a Gradient Charge is earned, allowing the use of a Gradient Attack. Notably, using a Gradient Attack does not end the player’s turn, enabling additional actions within the same turn.

How to Unlock Gradient Attacks in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

To access Gradient Attacks, players must progress to Monoco’s Station in Act 2 and defeat Monoco. During the subsequent battle against a Stalact, Monoco introduces the Gradient Attack mechanic. Additionally, enhancing relationships with certain characters unlocks stronger Gradient Attacks

All Gradient Attacks in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Shadow Bringer

Effect: Deals high single-target Dark damage across 10 hits. Each hit applies Foretell, enhancing synergy with prediction-based skills.
Cost: 1 Gradient Charge
Use Case: Excellent for stacking Foretell effects while pressuring high-HP enemies over multiple hits.

Doom

Effect: Massive single-target Dark damage (3 hits), inflicting Powerless, Defenceless, and Slow for 3 turns. Can also Break.
Cost: 2 Gradient Charge
Use Case: A crippling opener or finisher. Best used on bosses to remove offensive and defensive threat in one blow.

Tremor

Effect: Hits all enemies with Earth damage, stripping their Shields.
Cost: 1 Gradient Charge
Use Case: A powerful AoE opener to remove enemy defenses and prep for your follow-up combos.

Tree of Life

Effect: Cleanses all status effects and heals all allies.
Cost: 2 Gradient Charge
Use Case: A high-value recovery tool mid-fight or during intense multi-phase boss battles.

Sabotage

Effect: Deals medium Physical damage to all enemies and applies Mark.
Cost: 1 Gradient Charge
Use Case: Useful for setup. Marked enemies take increased damage, synergizing well with burst-focused teammates.

Striker

Effect: High single-target Physical damage (1 hit) with Break potential.
Cost: 2 Gradient Charge
Use Case: Strong against elite or boss enemies—ideal when aiming to stagger or interrupt their mechanics.

Virtuose Strike

Effect: High single-target Physical damage across 5 rapid hits.
Cost: 1 Gradient Charge
Use Case: Great for applying hit-based debuffs or overwhelming low-resistance enemies.

Phoenix Flame

Effect: Applies 10 Burn stacks to all enemies and revives all allies with 50–70% HP.
Cost: 2 Gradient Charge
Use Case: Emergency comeback tool—ideal in boss fights when your party is on the brink of a wipe.

Mighty Strike

Effect: High elemental damage (based on weapon) with 2 hits. Double damage if the target is Stunned.
Cost: 1 Gradient Charge
Use Case: Devastating when timed after stun setups—often your hardest-hitting attack if used correctly.

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Gradient Counters – How to Parry the Strongest Enemy Attacks

While Gradient Attacks are a powerful asset for your team, you’re not the only one wielding them—enemies in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 also gain access to Gradient Attacks, often as part of mini-boss or major boss mechanics. These enemy Gradient Attacks hit harder, affect larger areas, and can turn the tide of battle if not properly countered.

What Are Gradient Counters?

Gradient Counters are a unique mechanic designed to deflect or interrupt enemy Gradient Attacks. Unlike normal attacks that use the Parry Input, Gradient Counters require you to use the Dash Input to time your defense precisely.

Key Differences:

Input Method: You must Dash to counter — not Parry.

Visual Cues: Enemy Gradient Attacks are signaled by a dramatic gray screen overlay and a noticeable slow-motion effect.
Timing: The parry timing differs slightly due to the cinematic slowdown. You’ll need to time your Dash with precision as the attack nears impact.

Why Mastering Gradient Counters Matters

Failing to counter an enemy Gradient Attack can result in:

Massive AoE damage
Party-wide debuffs (e.g., Burn, Slow, or Mark)
Interrupted turn orders or knockbacks

Missed break opportunities

Conversely, a successful Gradient Counter can:

Nullify or reflect damage

Trigger Break effects on enemies
Recharge your Gradient Charge bar
Preserve your allies’ HP and buffs

Tips to Perfect Gradient Counters

Watch for Gray Screen & Slowdown: These are your indicators to get ready. Don’t rely purely on sound or enemy wind-up animation.
Practice Dash Timing: Unlike parries, which are reactive, Dashes require anticipation. Learn the “sweet spot” just before the attack lands.
Don’t Panic: You often get more time than you think due to the slowdown effect—stay calm and focused.

Counter to Control: Some bosses become vulnerable or staggered when their Gradient Attacks are countered successfully.

Mastering Gradient Attacks and Counters in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33