Defenders: Blocking & Tanking

Master Arknights Defenders, frontline operators with high HP and DEF, capable of blocking 3 enemies. Learn their roles in holding choke points using Healing De.

Defenders are your frontline tanks, boasting high HP and DEF, and capable of blocking 3 enemies (or more with certain talents/skills). They are essential for holding choke points and protecting squishier operators. Key archetypes include:

• Healing Defenders (e.g., Gummy, Saria, Nearl the Radiant Knight): Can heal themselves or adjacent allies, reducing the burden on Medics. Saria is a top-tier support unit.
• Normal Defenders (e.g., Beagle, Cuora, Hoshiguma): Pure tanks with high defensive stats. Cuora is an excellent F2P option.
• Arts Defenders (e.g., Liskarm, Nian, Horn): Deal Arts damage in addition to blocking, or have unique defensive utilities.
• Juggernaut Defenders (e.g., Mudrock, Penance): Extremely durable, often with self-sustain and high damage, but high deployment cost.

Invest in at least one strong Normal Defender and, if possible, a Healing Defender. For builds, prioritize leveling their defensive skills (e.g., DEF buffs, healing skills) and increasing their HP/DEF stats. Modules often enhance their blocking or defensive capabilities.