Parrying is one of the few mechanics in Cuphead that you really will need to master if you want to beat the game. This ability allows players to counter a specific attack, enemy, or projectile to take no damage and gain a bit of extra height. To actually parry, press jump and then hit A right before a pink colored foe or attack hits you. Doing so will cause Cuphead to “Parry Slap” and get away without taking any damage or losing a heart. You will need to master this move as the World 3 bosses all make strong use of the Parry mechanic, so make sure to work on this technique early on.