In Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, navigating combat effectively, especially against elite enemies, hinges on mastering the intricacies of parrying and dodging. Understanding the timing of enemy attacks and recognizing their types is essential for survival and victory.

Parrying Tips
1. Recognize Attack Types: Parrying is effective against standard enemy attacks that lack a glowing red aura, which typically denotes heavy or unblockable strikes. Focus on these regular strikes when engaging enemies.

2. Timing is Crucial: To successfully parry an attack, you must execute the block just before the enemy’s attack lands. This requires practice to master the timing for different enemies and attack patterns.

3. Counterattack Window: Upon a successful parry, you gain a brief opportunity to retaliate with one or two free hits. Take advantage of this window before the enemy can recover or evade your counterattack.

4. Limitations Against Elites: Keep in mind that elite foes often employ unblockable heavy attacks, which cannot be parried. It’s essential to identify these attacks to avoid unnecessary damage.

Dodging Tips
1. Telegraphing Attacks: Elite enemies commonly telegraph their unblockable attacks with a distinct red glow. This visual cue signals that you should not attempt to parry, as such an attack cannot be blocked.

2. Proper Timing for Dodging: The key to effective dodging lies in timing. Move just before the heavy attack connects, which not only allows you to evade but also positions you favorably for a counterattack.

3. Stay Alert: As you face elite enemies, they will likely utilize heavy attacks more frequently. Remain vigilant and prepared to dodge rather than relying on parrying.

4. Stamina Management: Ensure that your stamina is well-managed; having enough stamina available is crucial for executing quick dodges and maintaining your mobility during combat.

Effective Strategy Against Elite Enemies
1. Prioritize Dodging: Given the heavy reliance elite enemies have on unblockable attacks, prioritize dodging over parrying in these encounters. This approach will significantly reduce the risk of taking damage.

2. Selective Parrying: Utilize parrying selectively for lighter, parryable strikes when facing enemies whose attacks do not glow red. This strategy will help create valuable openings for counterattacks.

3. Attack Indicators: Always be aware of visual signals that indicate the type of attack being executed. The red glow for heavy attacks and other animations can help you anticipate the best defensive maneuvers.

4. Adapt Your Approach: Be flexible in your combat strategy. Adapt based on the enemy’s behavior and adaptively switch between dodging and parrying as the situation dictates.

Conclusion
In summary, when combating elite enemies in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, the best approach is to mainly dodge to evade their unblockable heavy attacks while using parrying sparingly against lighter strikes. Mastering timing and learning to read attack indicators are pivotal for mastering this dynamic combat system, allowing you to effectively take down formidable foes without taking undue damage.