How to Beat the Lone Swordsman in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
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The Lone Swordsman, often encountered as the first significant roadblock in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, is a formidable opponent who demands a mastery of the game’s core combat mechanics. To beat him, focus on aggressively deflecting his attacks to break his posture quickly. Counter his perilous attacks with the appropriate responses, typically Mikiri Countering his thrusts or jumping away from sweeps. Maintain relentless pressure, striking whenever you see an opening, and avoid prolonged periods of blocking. Successfully executing these tactics will rapidly deplete his posture, allowing you to deliver the Deathblow and claim victory.
Mastering the Basics: The Core Strategy
The Lone Swordsman, also known as General Naomori Kawarada, tests your understanding of Sekiro’s deflect-based combat system. He can be found early in the Ashina Outskirts near the Outskirts Wall – Gate Path Sculptor’s Idol. Here’s a breakdown of how to approach the fight:
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Aggressive Deflecting: This is the most crucial element. Don’t just block; aim to deflect his attacks with precise timing. A successful deflect not only mitigates damage but also significantly contributes to his posture buildup. Listen for the distinct “clang” sound and watch for the spark animation to confirm a successful deflect.
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Mikiri Countering Thrusts: Kawarada frequently employs a thrust attack, telegraphed by a red perilous symbol. This is your opportunity to use the Mikiri Counter. Time your dodge into the thrust to step on his weapon and inflict substantial posture damage. Hesitation is defeat when facing a thrust.
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Responding to Sweeps: He occasionally uses a sweep attack, also indicated by a red perilous symbol. The proper response here is to jump, preferably jumping on him to deal even more posture damage. Jumping back will only delay the inevitable.
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Relentless Offense (When Safe): Don’t be passive. After successfully deflecting a series of attacks or Mikiri Countering, immediately counter with your own attacks. Two to three hits should suffice before returning to a defensive posture, ready to deflect again. This keeps the pressure on him and prevents his posture from recovering.
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Prosthetic Tools (Optional): While not essential, the Loaded Shuriken can interrupt some of his attacks, creating an opening for a few strikes. It can also be used to close the distance quickly. Don’t overly rely on prosthetic tools, though; mastering the swordplay is key.
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Patience and Observation: Don’t get greedy. Observe his attack patterns. Learn the timing of his swings and thrusts. Patience is crucial for consistent deflections and successful Mikiri Counters.
Recognizing Key Attacks
Understanding Kawarada’s attack patterns is essential for a swift victory:
- Standard Sword Swings: These are the most common attacks. Deflect them aggressively.
- Thrust Attack: A perilous attack, easily countered with a Mikiri Counter. This is his most punishable move.
- Sweep Attack: Another perilous attack, requiring a jump. Jumping on his head deals bonus posture damage.
- Overhead Slam: He will raise his sword high above his head before slamming down, deal significant damage, this one can be dodged or deflected.
Mastering Combat Arts for Advanced Strategies
While not necessary to defeat him, employing Combat Arts can speed up the process.
- Ichimonji Double: This combat art is available early. The first strike causes a large increase in posture damage, making subsequent attacks more effective.
Recovering and Healing
Finding opportunities to heal can be tricky, but is still important.
- Create Distance: If you need to heal or use a consumable, create some distance. Be prepared to deflect if he closes the gap quickly.
- Right After Mikiri Counter: Use the short pause after a Mikiri Counter to heal.
- Don’t Overheal: Avoid wasting healing gourds. It’s better to take a small amount of damage than to overcommit to healing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I deflect properly in Sekiro?
To deflect properly, press the block button (L1/LB) just before the enemy’s attack lands. A successful deflect will produce a distinct “clang” sound and a bright spark. Accurate timing is crucial.
2. What is the Mikiri Counter, and how do I use it?
The Mikiri Counter is a special counter move used against thrust attacks. When you see the red perilous symbol indicating an incoming thrust, dodge into the attack with well-timed dodge button press (Circle/B on the controller).
3. How do I deal with perilous sweep attacks?
When you see the red perilous symbol indicating a sweep attack, jump over the attack. Jumping on the enemy during the sweep deals extra posture damage.
4. Is it better to block or deflect in Sekiro?
Deflecting is almost always better than blocking. While blocking reduces damage, deflecting builds up the enemy’s posture more quickly and prevents your own posture from breaking.
5. How do I manage my posture in Sekiro?
Your posture recovers automatically when you’re not actively blocking or taking damage. Keeping your distance or deflecting properly will help you maintain a healthy posture. Blocking constantly leads to posture breakage and vulnerability.
6. What are Combat Arts, and how do I use them?
Combat Arts are special sword techniques that can be learned and equipped. To use a Combat Art, press L1/LB + R1/RB. Some Combat Arts are more effective against certain enemies or situations.
7. What are Prosthetic Tools, and how do I use them?
Prosthetic Tools are weapons and gadgets that can be equipped in Sekiro’s prosthetic arm. Each tool has a unique function. To use a Prosthetic Tool, press L2/LT + R1/RB.
8. How do I heal in Sekiro?
You can heal using the Healing Gourd, which can be refilled at Sculptor’s Idols. To use the Healing Gourd, press the D-pad button. You can also find other healing items throughout the game.
9. How can I tell when an enemy’s posture is about to break?
An enemy’s posture gauge will fill up as you deflect and attack them. When the gauge is full, their posture will break, leaving them open for a Deathblow.
10. What is a Deathblow, and how do I perform one?
A Deathblow is a finishing move that instantly kills most standard enemies. It can be performed when an enemy’s posture is broken. You can initiate a Deathblow by pressing the attack button (R1/RB) when near a vulnerable enemy.
11. How do I get stronger in Sekiro?
You can increase your Vitality (health) and Posture by defeating bosses and obtaining Prayer Beads. You can also upgrade your attack power by defeating bosses and obtaining Memories.
12. Should I grind for experience points (Skill Points) in Sekiro?
While grinding for Skill Points can be helpful, it’s generally more efficient to focus on improving your combat skills and understanding enemy patterns. Mastering the game’s mechanics will make you far more effective than simply leveling up.
13. What if I’m having trouble with a particular enemy or boss?
If you’re struggling with a particular enemy or boss, try experimenting with different Combat Arts, Prosthetic Tools, and strategies. Watch gameplay videos of other players to see how they approach the fight. Don’t be afraid to try different approaches.
14. Can I summon help from other players in Sekiro?
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is a single-player game and does not have cooperative multiplayer. You can’t summon help from other players to assist with bosses.
15. Is Sekiro harder than other FromSoftware games like Dark Souls or Bloodborne?
Many players consider Sekiro to be more challenging than Dark Souls or Bloodborne due to its emphasis on precise deflections and aggressive combat. However, mastering the game’s core mechanics can make it incredibly rewarding.