Originally posted by MistrBill:

I've seen the usefulness of both shields and dodging in youtube videos, but my timing is terrible. Guess I should practice more during fights where it doesn't matter.

They can be useful in single player, playing online both parrying and dodging is tricky, or rather not optimal due to lag. Blocking can work with heavier shield, but I am just juking enemies by quick sprinting away while they're trying to hit me (a tree-troll still hits you tho).