Should You Share a Drink with Isshin Ashina in Sekiro?

Yes, you absolutely should give sake to Isshin Ashina in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. While it doesn’t impact the game’s endings, sharing sake with Isshin unlocks valuable lore, reveals deeper character insights, and enriches your overall gaming experience. Think of it as an opportunity to sit down with a legendary warrior and hear tales of his past. So, raise a glass (virtually, of course!) and dive into the stories Isshin has to share.

Why Giving Sake Matters in Sekiro

In Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, sake isn’t just another item in your inventory; it’s a key to unlocking deeper narratives and character relationships. Giving sake to NPCs like Isshin Ashina, Emma, or the Sculptor triggers unique dialogue sequences that provide backstory and lore. These conversations offer valuable insights into the game’s world, the motivations of its characters, and the history of Ashina.

The Benefits of Sharing Sake with Isshin Ashina

• Unlocking Lore: Isshin is a wealth of knowledge about Ashina’s history, the inner workings of its power struggles, and the tales of legendary warriors. Sharing sake with him allows you to tap into this knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of the game’s world.
• Character Development: Giving sake allows Isshin to open up and reveal more about his past experiences, his philosophies, and his relationships with other characters. It’s a chance to see beyond the fearsome warrior and understand the man beneath the armor.
• Optional but Rewarding: Sharing sake is entirely optional, meaning it won’t affect your progression or the ending you receive. However, it significantly enhances the storytelling aspect of the game. The rewards are purely narrative and provide a richer experience.
• Different Sake, Different Stories: Each type of sake can elicit a unique response from Isshin, prompting different stories and insights. Experimenting with different types of sake ensures you don’t miss out on any hidden details.
• Adding Depth to the Game: Sekiro is more than just combat; it’s a story about loss, duty, and sacrifice. The sake dialogues add layers of complexity to these themes, making the game more emotionally resonant.

Types of Sake and Their Effects

There are multiple types of sake that can be offered in Sekiro, each with its own effect on the recipient:

• Ashina Sake: This sake, often obtained from Emma, is a general-purpose option that usually unlocks a good starting point for stories about Ashina.
• Unrefined Sake: A cloudy, unrefined sake that Isshin favors. It can trigger specific conversations related to his preferences and memories associated with the drink.
• Dragonspring Sake: This sake is another versatile option that can be given to various NPCs, including Isshin, and unlocks a variety of lore-focused dialogue.
• Monkey Booze: Often associated with the Sunken Valley, giving Monkey Booze can trigger dialogues related to the area.

How to Offer Sake

Offering sake is a simple process:

1. Obtain the sake item.
2. Locate the NPC you wish to give it to (in this case, Isshin Ashina).
3. Speak to the NPC and select the “Give Sake” option when it appears in the dialogue menu.
4. Listen carefully to the ensuing conversation and absorb the details shared.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Giving Sake to Isshin Ashina

1. What happens if I give Ashina Sake to Isshin?

Giving Ashina Sake to Isshin will typically prompt him to share stories related to the Ashina clan, their past struggles, and perhaps his own experiences during those times. Expect details about the clan’s history and significant events.

2. What happens if I give Dragonspring Sake to Isshin?

Dragonspring Sake will unlock a different set of dialogues, possibly focusing on more personal matters or events related to spiritual aspects of Ashina. This might delve into the history of certain locations or individuals of importance.

3. What is Isshin’s favorite sake?

Isshin seems to have a particular fondness for cloudy, unrefined sake. This is the one that triggers unique conversation. Offering this specific sake may trigger the most revealing or insightful conversations.

4. Does giving sake affect the endings in Sekiro?

No, giving sake does not affect any of the game’s endings. It is purely for enriching the lore and character development. So, feel free to share a drink without worrying about altering your path.

5. Can I give Isshin sake multiple times?

Yes, you can give Isshin sake multiple times, but only one type of sake can be given per opportunity to trigger dialog. Each time you give him a different type of sake, he will have a new story or perspective to share.

6. Is it safe to give Emma sake?

Yes, it is safe to give Emma sake. She is perfectly capable of handling her liquor and will also offer valuable insights and lore.

7. What happens if I give sake to the Sculptor?

Giving sake to the Sculptor will unlock dialogues related to his past, his connection to the Wolf, and his own struggles with his inner demons. It’s a chance to understand the man behind the Prosthetic Arm.

8. Why can’t I give sake to the Sculptor?

If you can’t give sake to the Sculptor, it’s likely because he is suffering from Dragonrot. Cure the Dragonrot by using a Dragon’s Blood Droplet at the Sculptor’s Idol, and then you will be able to offer him sake.

9. Where can I find the different types of sake?

Different types of sake can be found in various locations throughout the game, often as loot from enemies or in hidden areas. Pay close attention to your surroundings and explore thoroughly to uncover them. Emma often provides Ashina Sake.

10. Is Isshin Ashina a Shinobi?

While Isshin is a master of combat and possesses knowledge of Shinobi techniques, his identity is more complex. He is a renowned warrior and a strategic genius, but his background as a Shinobi is more nuanced and open to interpretation. His ability to fight well is undeniable.

11. Is Isshin Ashina the strongest character in Sekiro?

Lore-wise, Isshin Ashina is often considered one of the most powerful characters in Sekiro, especially among those without overt “magical” abilities. His combat skills and strategic mind are unmatched. However, gameplay-wise, Isshin, the Sword Saint is often considered the hardest boss due to his overwhelming attack patterns.

12. What should I do if I accidentally die too much in Sekiro?

Dying too much in Sekiro leads to a loss of half your current money and XP. To mitigate this, convert your money into items and gold pouches regularly. There is also a 30% chance of Unseen Aid activating to prevent any loss of progress. Be sure to focus on farming XP to regain lost progress when possible.

13. What are the different endings in Sekiro?

Sekiro has four distinct endings: Shura, Immortal Severance, Purification, and Return. These endings vary in their outcomes and require specific steps to unlock, adding replayability to the game. Understanding which path you are on can greatly affect your engagement.

14. How do I beat Isshin, the Sword Saint?

Isshin, the Sword Saint is one of the toughest bosses in Sekiro. To defeat him, learn his attack patterns, master the Mikiri Counter, and use combat arts like Whirlwind Slash to create openings. Patience and precision are key.

15. Where can I learn more about game design and the educational value of games?

For more information on game design, learning through games, and the educational impact of video games, visit the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ or GamesLearningSociety.org. You’ll find valuable research, insights, and resources on the intersection of games and education.

Conclusion: Drink Deep from Sekiro’s Lore

Giving sake to Isshin Ashina is a rewarding experience that enhances your understanding of the game’s world and characters. While it doesn’t affect the game’s endings, it adds depth and richness to the overall narrative. So, next time you find yourself with a bottle of sake in Sekiro, don’t hesitate to share it with Isshin and listen to the stories he has to tell.