Counter Attack

Counter Attack is a reactive buff that causes the unit to automatically attack the next source of damage it receives. When a unit with Counter Attack takes damage, it immediately retaliates against the attacker, and one stack is consumed. This provides both a deterrent against attacking the unit and free damage output without spending the unit's turn on offensive actions.

Counter Attack triggers on any damage source, including melee attacks, ranged attacks, and spells. The retaliatory attack uses the unit's basic attack, so Strength and damage bonuses apply to the counter. Each stack provides one counter, so multiple stacks allow multiple retaliations. The Preemptive Counter variant is even more powerful, attacking the source before they complete their attack.

Counter Attack synergizes well with high Strength, Serrated Claws, and other on-hit effects, as each counter attack triggers those effects. Combined with Thorns (which also punishes attackers), a Counter Attack unit becomes extremely dangerous to engage. For tank builds, Counter Attack provides passive damage output while focusing actions on healing, positioning, and support. Against enemies with Counter Attack, ranged attacks and indirect damage minimize the retaliation risk.