What is the Best Sword in Ghost of Tsushima?

The quest for the “best” sword in Ghost of Tsushima is a common one among players, and while it might seem like a straightforward question, the answer is nuanced. The game doesn’t operate on a traditional weapon-leveling system. Rather, all swords in Ghost of Tsushima are functionally identical in terms of damage and attack speed. Your main weapon throughout the game is the Sakai Katana, wielded by Jin Sakai himself, alongside his Tanto, a secondary short blade. Therefore, the search isn’t for a superior sword, but rather for the optimal ways to utilize the Katana, and to enhance its visual appeal through Sword Kits. The focus should be on combat stances, armor, and other abilities, rather than chasing an elusive “best” blade.

Understanding Sword Mechanics

The heart of the combat in Ghost of Tsushima lies in its stance system. As Jin progresses, he learns different stances to effectively combat various enemy types. These include Stone Stance (for swordsmen), Water Stance (for shield bearers), Wind Stance (for spear users), and Moon Stance (for brutes). Each stance has its own strengths and weaknesses, making switching crucial to winning battles.

The Sakai Katana

The Sakai Katana is the primary weapon Jin uses throughout the game. It is not a weapon that gets replaced or upgraded in the traditional sense. Instead, its core damage output remains constant. What truly alters your combat experience is how you upgrade your Technique Points. These points allow you to learn new combat skills, and improve the effectiveness of the various stances. Enhancing the stances and abilities is where true power is found.

The Importance of Stances

The four core stances are each tailored to specific enemy types. Understanding and mastering these stances is paramount to success. For example, the Stone Stance is ideal for breaking through the blocks of swordsmen, while Water Stance is excellent for shattering shields. The Wind Stance is the answer to spear-wielding enemies, and the Moon Stance tears through brutes. Each has its own upgrades as well, further enhancing the effectiveness of specific actions. You should focus on improving all stances.

The Role of Sword Kits

While the base stats of the Katana remain the same, players can customize their swords through Sword Kits. These purely aesthetic customizations allow players to tailor their weapon’s appearance without impacting its combat abilities. There are many available, each with different designs. Some fan-favorites include:

• Gold Koi River: A shimmering, golden appearance.
• Heavenly Falcon: With a sleek design, and a dark and light color pattern.
• Warrior’s Faith: A blue design, evoking tranquility.
• Breath Of Hachiman: A white blade design, representing a spiritual samurai.

These kits can be purchased from merchants using flowers, collected throughout the game. They add personality to Jin’s weapon but provide no combat advantage.

Focus on Abilities and Equipment

Instead of searching for the “best” sword, focus your efforts on optimizing Jin’s armor, abilities, and Ghost Weapons.

Armor Sets

Armor sets offer various bonuses. Some top armor choices include:

• Sakai Clan Armor: This armor boosts melee damage and health, making it great for direct combat.
• Sarugami Armor: The best example of a risk-reward setup, this armor allows for combos after a perfect parry.
• Ghost Armor: Perfect for stealth approaches, it increases the chance of terrorizing enemies.

Ghost Weapons

Ghost Weapons like Kunai, Smoke Bombs, and Wind Chimes are incredibly valuable in combat, offering ways to disrupt enemies or even cause damage. Kunai in particular are very powerful and can break through enemy defenses. Smoke Bombs, in addition to their offensive capabilities, have defensive utility, allowing for escapes from difficult situations. Using Ghost Weapons effectively can dramatically improve your success in battles.

Techniques and Upgrades

Upgrading your Techniques is the key to character progression. Focusing on skills like Perfect Parry, Resolve Gain, and stance improvements will make you a far more formidable opponent. These enhancements are more impactful than seeking a better sword. You will want to level up and gain Technique Points by completing missions and various activities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do different swords have different stats in Ghost of Tsushima?

No, all swords (the Sakai Katana and Tanto) have the same base damage and attack speed. There is no sword progression outside of the techniques.

2. What are Sword Kits for?

Sword Kits are purely cosmetic and do not affect gameplay. They are used to customize the appearance of your sword.

3. Can I unlock new swords in Ghost of Tsushima?

No, the Sakai Katana and Tanto are the only swords you use. There are no other swords to unlock.

4. What is the most important stance to learn?

All stances are important, but the Stone Stance is your default, making it crucial to upgrade early for sword duels. Focus on upgrading all stances over time.

5. Is stealth necessary in Ghost of Tsushima?

While not always required, stealth can be extremely beneficial, making many encounters much easier, and allowing you to thin out the enemy ranks prior to direct combat.

6. What are the best Ghost Weapons?

Kunai and Smoke Bombs are widely considered the best, due to their versatility and combat utility. Kunai allows you to quickly break through defenses, and smoke bombs let you escape, and re-engage a fight.

7. Which armor is the best for combat?

The Sakai Clan Armor is often considered the best for direct combat, due to its melee damage and health boosts. The Sarugami Armor is also powerful if you are able to use perfect parries often.

8. Can I beat Ghost of Tsushima without being “dishonorable”?

Yes, while stealth is framed as “dishonorable”, it is a key component of gameplay. You can play in any way that you find satisfying.

9. What is the hardest fight in Ghost of Tsushima?

Many players find the boss fights against Lord Shimura and Khotun Khan to be the most difficult encounters.

10. Is the Ghost Armor better than the Sakai Armor?

It depends on your playstyle. The Ghost Armor is better for stealth, while the Sakai Clan Armor is better for direct combat. The Sarugami Armor is considered to be very strong.

11. How long is Jin Sakai’s katana?

The Katana is approximately 99 cm long without its sheath and 105cm long with its sheath.

12. What should I upgrade first in Ghost of Tsushima?

Start with the Stone Stance and related skills, as they will aid in one-on-one sword duels.

13. Is there a sequel planned for Ghost of Tsushima?

While there are no official announcements for a sequel, there is considerable anticipation for Ghost of Tsushima 2.

14. Does upgrading the Tanto change gameplay?

Upgrading the Tanto does not change damage, but maxing it will change the animations.

15. What is the best armor to defeat Khotun Khan?

The Sakai Clan Armor, Gosaku’s Armor and the Samurai Clan Armor are all good choices due to their defensive and offensive boosts.

Conclusion

In summary, there isn’t a single “best” sword in Ghost of Tsushima. The Sakai Katana, and Tanto serve as your main weapons throughout the entire journey. Rather, mastery comes from understanding and upgrading stances, utilizing the right armor, and leveraging powerful Ghost Weapons. The game emphasizes player skill and strategic combat over a traditional weapon-progression system. Focus on honing your abilities, and experimenting with different armor sets and techniques to become the most lethal warrior possible on Tsushima Island. The best blade in Ghost of Tsushima is ultimately the one wielded by the player who has truly mastered its mechanics.