Defence is one of the seven Combat skills in Melvor Idle. It is one of three skills (along with Hitpoints and Prayer) that is always used when determining a player or monster's Combat Level regardless of what combat style they are strongest with.
The Defence skill increases the player's melee, ranged, and magic evasion rating. For details on how Evasion Rating is calculated, refer to the Evasion Rating section on the Combat page.
Gaining Defence XP
Defence experience can be earned while using any Combat Style by selecting the appropriate Attack Style:
While using Ranged, select the Longrange Attack Style
While using Magic, select the Defensive Attack Style
XP gained is based on damage dealt. When using the Block Attack Style, 0.4 Defence XP will be received per point of damage done. When using the Longrange or Defensive Attack Styles, 0.2 Defence XP will be received per point of damage done, with another 0.2 XP going to Ranged or Magic respectively.
Each armour material requires a certain Defence level to be equipped. Below is a table detailing which Defence level is required for which armour material.