You could probably go a long way with a greatshield. Just hold up block. There's a new block-counter ability where after you block you can press heavy attack to do a counter. Doesn't require as much twitch as dodge, but, also, panicked dodge roll spam can go a long way. There's plenty of opportunity to build up your power by just running around picking up upgrade stones, raiding all the mines, etc. Then you can even summon some spirits to help with the bosses. Or even another player, if you can be quick enough to summon him before someone else does.
I haven't finished the game, but I found most of the bosses to be pretty easy. The only one who gave me a bit of trouble was ummmm…. Starscourge Radan or something. I almost beat him first try but then did worse on all the following attempts and decided I'd come back later with a faster weapon with some bleed on it. The fight was much easier with a +14 uchi which worked well with my STR build because I could chuck a Heavy flavour on it. Until that point the Golden Halberd you get off the knight at the start of the game carried me pretty well.
That halberd had be thinking they gave you the best weapon in the game right at the start.
Oh, also, that godslayer or godskin boss was a fair struggle but I was way under-leveled when I ran into him. Was quite a marathon to whittle him down and lose 90% of my HP if I took a hit, but I leaned heavily on a greatshield for that one and just dodged his fireballs.
I haven't finished the game, but I found most of the bosses to be pretty easy. The only one who gave me a bit of trouble was ummmm…. Starscourge Radan or something. I almost beat him first try but then did worse on all the following attempts and decided I'd come back later with a faster weapon with some bleed on it. The fight was much easier with a +14 uchi which worked well with my STR build because I could chuck a Heavy flavour on it. Until that point the Golden Halberd you get off the knight at the start of the game carried me pretty well.
That halberd had be thinking they gave you the best weapon in the game right at the start.
Oh, also, that godslayer or godskin boss was a fair struggle but I was way under-leveled when I ran into him. Was quite a marathon to whittle him down and lose 90% of my HP if I took a hit, but I leaned heavily on a greatshield for that one and just dodged his fireballs.