SLAY THE SPIRE / IRONCLAD

Defend

Basic Block skill that remains useful in the opening fights but has weak late-game output.

QUICK REFERENCESlay the Spire 1Reviewed 2026-10-28Reference / noindex
Original schematic Volpedia category artwork
OVERVIEW

What is Defend?

Basic Block skill that remains useful in the opening fights but has weak late-game output.

This reference covers gameplay decisions in the original Slay the Spire. Character-specific options and relic synergy can change how useful an item is, so consider your current deck, health, upcoming enemy and available resources before applying a strategy.

PRACTICAL STRATEGY

When and how to use it

Compare Defend removal with weak attack removal based on the deck you are actually building.

COMMON MISTAKES

What to avoid

Do not chase card removal so aggressively that you lose necessary defense.

CONTINUE ON VOLPEDIA

Related topics and walkthroughs

BUILDSDefect Dark Orb Burst

Charges Dark orbs while defending and Evokes when the damage can finish an enemy.

TIPSDefend against Act II multi-hits

Act II frequently attacks with groups or repeated hits.

TIPSRead enemy intents before every card

The icon above each foe shows whether it will attack, defend, buff or debuff.

CARDSAccuracy

Boosts Shiv damage and turns a small-hit package into serious offense.

CARDSAcrobatics

Draws several cards while discarding one, a tool for targeted deck cycling.

CARDSAdrenaline

Grants draw and energy without consuming normal energy; excellent for tempo.

CARDSAfter Image

Gains Block as cards are played, rewarding high-action turns.

Back to Cards

Independent Volpedia editorial resource, not affiliated with Mega Crit. Original game (Slay the Spire 1), reviewed 2026-10-28. Slay the Spire 2 has separate rules, cards and characters and is not included here. Category graphics are original conceptual illustrations, not game screenshots or actual card artwork. Detailed numerical card costs, damage, upgrade effects and drop percentages are omitted where not individually checked. Editorial verification records are stored separately from public articles.