A Guard Impact is a defensive move available to every character (custom included). It is executed by quickly tapping the guard button and forward/backward on the joystick when an opponent's attack connects. Pushing forward on the joystick will result in a "counter", while pulling back will execute a "parry". Both have the same general effect: the opponent's attack is deflected and he suffers a significant loss in Soul Gauge, while the defender sustains no damage. A successful Guard Impact is indicated by a sharp clashing metal sound as well as a dazzling flash of colored light. During a counter, the light is green, and opponent stumbles backwards a bit while the defender automatically advances upon him/her (allowing for the quick execution of an attack). In this stumbling state, the oppone