Unlocking the Shadows: A Comprehensive Guide to Ninjutsu in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

So, you’re diving deep into the brutal world of Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and want to master the art of Ninjutsu? Excellent choice, Shinobi! These skills are absolutely crucial for turning the tide in some of the game’s toughest encounters. Let’s get straight to the point:

Unlocking Ninjutsu in Sekiro isn’t about finding a single item or leveling up a specific stat. It’s about defeating key bosses throughout your journey. Each Ninjutsu technique is tied to a specific boss victory, granting you that skill upon their demise. These aren’t just handed to you; you earn them through blood, sweat, and perfectly timed deflections.

Now, let’s break down each Ninjutsu and how to acquire it:

Ninjutsu Techniques and Their Acquisition

There are three Ninjutsu Techniques to acquire in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

1. Bloodsmoke Ninjutsu

• How to Acquire: Defeat Genichiro, Way of Tomoe atop Ashina Castle.

• Effect: This technique allows you to create a cloud of blood-red smoke after performing a successful backstab deathblow. This momentarily obscures the enemy’s vision, allowing you to reposition, heal, or even land another stealth attack. It’s incredibly useful for thinning out groups of enemies or gaining the upper hand in a tough fight.

• Strategic Use: Learn to utilize the environment to your advantage and plan your stealth attacks carefully. The Bloodsmoke Ninjutsu is perfect for creating chaos and isolating targets.

2. Puppeteer Ninjutsu

• How to Acquire: After clearing Senpou Temple (which requires defeating Genichiro first), return to the Main Hall of Senpou Temple, ring the bell, and defeat the Folding Screen Monkeys.

• Effect: This technique allows you to resurrect a defeated enemy as your puppet, fighting alongside you. The puppet will attack other enemies, drawing their aggro and providing valuable support.

• Strategic Use: This is a game-changer, especially in areas with multiple enemies. Choose your puppet wisely. Some enemies have unique abilities that can be exploited when they become your allies. The puppeteer ninjutsu allows you to stealthily take over another enemy and allows them to fight for you, which is extremely helpful when you have more than one enemy you’re fighting at once.

3. Bestowal Ninjutsu

• How to Acquire: First, defeat the Guardian Ape in the Sunken Valley. Then, progress to the Ashina Depths and defeat the Headless Ape (the rematch).

• Effect: This technique imbues your sword with extra damage and reach for a short period.

• Strategic Use: This is a raw power boost, ideal for taking down bosses or quickly dispatching difficult enemies. Time the Bestowal Ninjutsu carefully to maximize its impact.

Ninjutsu: More Than Just Skills

While mastering the combat arts and unlocking the powerful skills in Sekiro is essential for your survival, Ninjutsu provides unique strategic advantages that significantly enhance your gameplay. Each technique is versatile, allowing for creative approaches to various combat scenarios. The Ninjutsu abilities offer strategic advantages, making them essential to master for overcoming difficult challenges and dominating the battlefield.

Remember, mastering these Ninjutsu techniques requires practice and experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try different strategies and find what works best for your playstyle. Learn to adapt and utilize these skills to their fullest potential, and you’ll become a true master of the shadows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ninjutsu in Sekiro

Here are some frequently asked questions related to Ninjutsu and other aspects of Sekiro:

1. How many Ninjutsu techniques are there in Sekiro?

There are three unlockable Ninjutsu Techniques in Sekiro: Bloodsmoke Ninjutsu, Puppeteer Ninjutsu, and Bestowal Ninjutsu.

2. Is Bestowal Ninjutsu missable?

No, Bestowal Ninjutsu is not missable. You simply need to find it and beat the boss. The second boss will only appear when you progress to the Ashina Depths.

3. Can I use Ninjutsu skills repeatedly?

Yes, but Ninjutsu consumes Spirit Emblems. Ensure you have enough Spirit Emblems before engaging in combat where you plan to use these abilities frequently.

4. Does Bestowal Ninjutsu increase my posture damage?

Yes, Bestowal Ninjutsu increases both health damage and posture damage for a limited time.

5. What are the best uses for Bloodsmoke Ninjutsu?

Bloodsmoke Ninjutsu is excellent for resetting combat, isolating enemies, and creating opportunities for stealth attacks. It’s also useful for escaping tricky situations.

6. Can I use Puppeteer Ninjutsu on any enemy?

No, you can only use Puppeteer Ninjutsu on defeated enemies that are still capable of being puppeted. Certain enemies, like bosses, are immune to this technique.

7. How do I maximize the effectiveness of Puppeteer Ninjutsu?

Choose enemies with high health or useful abilities to puppet. Position them strategically to draw aggro and support your attacks.

8. Are Spirit Emblems limited in Sekiro?

Spirit Emblems can be found throughout the game world and purchased from merchants. While they are not unlimited, they are relatively abundant, especially if you manage your resources carefully.

9. What skills should I unlock early in Sekiro?

The Mikiri Counter is essential, as it allows you to effectively counter thrust attacks. The Chasing Slice is also valuable for closing the distance to enemies after deflecting their attacks. Also consider checking out the Games Learning Society.

10. How do I get the Mortal Blade in Sekiro?

The Mortal Blade is acquired by progressing through Senpou Temple, Mt. Kongo. You’ll eventually encounter and defeat the Folding Screen Monkeys, which will lead you to the Mortal Blade.

11. What is the most difficult boss in Sekiro?

Many players consider Isshin, the Sword Saint to be the most challenging boss in Sekiro. His speed, variety of attacks, and multiple phases make him a formidable opponent.

12. Is stealth important in Sekiro?

Stealth is crucial in Sekiro. It allows you to thin out enemy ranks, avoid unnecessary confrontations, and set up advantageous positions for combat.

13. How do I increase my attack power in Sekiro?

Attack power can be increased by obtaining Memories from defeated bosses and using them at a Sculptor’s Idol.

14. What are Dragon Tears used for in Sekiro?

Dragon Tears are a crucial ingredient for severing Kuro’s immortality and are needed to get one of the good endings available in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. You must make your way through the Fountainhead Palace and take out one of the wellsprings of immortality to obtain them.

15. How many endings are there in Sekiro?

There are four distinct endings in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, each requiring different actions and choices throughout the game.

By mastering these techniques and understanding the game mechanics, you’ll be well on your way to conquering the challenges that await you in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. Good luck, Shinobi!