Dark Souls 3: 12 Crucial Tips & Tricks The Game Doesn't Tell You

9. Use Weapon Skills With A Shield

Now, this isn't going to apply to every shield, but if you look to the top of the inventory screen when equipping one, you'll notice they have their own weapon skills - or none at all.

Many shields let you deflect attacks as their primary L2/LT ability, but for those without a defensive ability, your other hand's skill will take its place.

This allows you to defend in the standard 'shields-up' position using L1/LB, but upon pressing the left trigger, your character will assume the stance used for their right-hand weapon, meaning you get the best of both worlds - providing you're okay losing the ability to parry, of course.