Reference article
Battles (Duck Life: Battle)
Ducks perform normal attacks automatically; the player uses timing to trigger weapon specials.
Normal and special attacks
Once battle starts, normal attacks are automatic. A special meter fills according to 
Special; when the timing prompt appears, click, tap or press a controller button at the correct moment to activate the special. A missed window fails that attempt.
Building your duck
Power raises damage, 
Speed shortens normal-attack delays, 
Defence reduces incoming damage, 
Health raises HP and Special improves the special meter. Choosing protective equipment matters alongside training.
Damage and protection
Weapons can deal normal damage and one of four elemental types. Hat and costume protection are calculated separately for each type, so negative protection is a vulnerability. The damage calculation also includes a random factor; a catalogue damage number is not the final HP loss.
Victory
Local challenges may award coins, equipment or quest items. 
Tournaments and the 
Mallard Gang use a queue of three opponents; win every round to complete the challenge.