View source for Defence

{{UserContentVersion|1.2.2}}
{{Skillbox
|released=21 September 2019 ([[V0.05]])
|expansion=Base game
|type=Combat
|99=None
|120=TotH
|abyssal60=ItA
}}

'''{{PAGENAME}}''' is a {{Icon|Combat}} skill. It is one of three skills (along with {{Skill|Hitpoints}} and {{Skill|Prayer}}) that is used when determining a player or monster's [[Combat Level]], regardless of what combat style they are strongest with.

A higher Defence level increases the player's [[Combat#Evasion Rating|evasion ratings]] in combat, which lowers a monster's chance to hit. Defence does ''not'' affect the damage dealt by a successful attack, which is mostly a factor of [[Damage Reduction]]. As it results in fewer hits against the player, however, a higher Defence level can help reduce [[food]] usage in combat. Defence has no effect in {{Skill|Thieving}}.

Most Melee-focused armour requires a certain Defence level to be equipped.

== Mechanics ==

The Defence skill increases the player's melee, ranged, and magic evasion ratings. For details on how Evasion Rating is calculated, refer to the [[Combat#Evasion Rating|Evasion Rating section]] on the {{Icon|Combat}} page.

== Gaining Defence XP ==

Defence XP can be earned in combat with any of the three combat styles by selecting the appropriate attack style:

* While using {{Icon|Melee}}, choose the "Block" attack style
* While using {{Skill|Ranged}}, choose the "Longrange" attack style
* While using {{Skill|Magic}}, choose the "Defensive" attack style

Defence XP gained is based on damage dealt to an enemy, not damage taken by the player. When using the Block attack style, 0.4 Defence XP is awarded per point of damage done. When using the Longrange or Defensive attack styles, 0.2 Defence XP is awarded per point of damage done, with another 0.2 XP per point of damage going to Ranged or Magic, respectively.

== Skill Level Unlocks ==
Increasing the {{PAGENAME}} skill allows the player to equip more powerful [[Melee]]-focused armour. The player's [[Combat#Accuracy Rating|accuracy rating]] when using the {{Skill|Defence|Block|nolink=true}} attack style scales with Defence level, as does the player's [[Combat#Evasion Rating|evasion rating]] against all attack styles.
{{SkillUnlocks|{{PAGENAME}}}}

== Skillcapes ==
{{SkillcapeInfo}}

== Pet ==
This skill's [[Pets|pet]] can be unlocked by performing any action that provides Defence XP.
{{PetSkillInfo}}

[[Category:Skills]]
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