I experimented with weapons and shields ,etc and I tried going for the snarbolax without a sheild and only use sword and the out come is.... a fail cuz when i was fighting the boss i couldn't block or defend so im thinking if u don't equip a shield u can have replacements for the shield bash and the block.
so here is some of my ideas for replacement
REPLACEMENTS : shield bash To Quick step
Quick step
Quick step is when u click the shield bash button u will dash backwards and evade any attack while moving back ( even spikes but when land on spike still take dmg)
Shield bash to Back slash
Back slash
i came up with this idea cuz i think if u were surrounded and if u only attack the fount then there would be space for enemy at the back to attack u. ( i know cuz i've been trying these things. )
REPLACEMENT : Block to parry
Parry
To use click the right MB ( mouse button) For a short amount of time you can deflect and counter attack any close range attacks but u cannot deflect any ranged attack
Block to Blade block
Blade Block
Basically using the side of the blade to block enemy attack but has less mobility than a shield also used like shield canceling.
Benefits : ASI increase and sword power increase
i say these cuz i think of if we actually hold a sword without a shield we could hold more power and speed on the sword rather than with the shield
this is only basic ideas if u chose to develop it fine by me but if u chose to judge my ideas plz be nice :)
No.
I'm quite honestly surprised we can even un-equip our shield.
Also, not everyone's control scheme is set up like yours.