Brace for attacks and retaliate. Activate at the right time to reduce damage. Can use while airborne.
Description
Counterstance is an ability for Cloud in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, provided by the 
Slipstream Saber. Cloud enters a defensive stance, and when attacked by an enemy, immediately retaliates by swinging his sword in a radius. If Cloud is not attacked in the few moments after assuming the stance, he will simply swing his sword upward, dealing moderate damage to whatever is in front of him.
Obtained[]
Counterstance is provided by the slipstream saber, and learned with use.
Use[]
Counterstance is a situational physical damage ability for Cloud, which plays into his strengths as a durable, counterattacking party member with high physical damage output. It greatly reduces damage taken while in the stance (even more so with 
Steadfast Block Materia), and retaliates with an incredibly strong attack of its own. Unlike Punisher Mode, it allows Cloud to counterattack magic and ranged attacks. When hit with Counterstance active, Cloud will survive at 1 HP an attack that would have otherwise killed it, similar to Reprieve.
Counterstance is very effective in solo battles, or against bosses and enemies targeting Cloud. It can be used both defensively to reduce damage from attacks, and as a great source of damage in itself. When obtained, it is best to ensure Cloud has an ATB charge available when needed. Cloud can use it when he is low on health to avoid dying to an enemy's attack.
However, the additions of perfect block, perfect Punisher Mode counter, and Counterfire, all of which do not cost ATB, can make Counterstance less useful than in Final Fantasy VII Remake as the player simply has more options. Counterstance's boons are that it can counter various attacks and Cloud cannot die while in the stance. One setup to make use of this could be with HP⇔MP Materia and Darkside.