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What Does Killing the Snake Do in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice?

Killing the Great Serpent in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is crucial for progression and unlocking certain areas within the game. Eliminating the Great Serpent, both during the initial encounter in the Sunken Valley Passage and subsequently in the Ruptured Bridge Valley, allows players to advance through the game, access new locations like the Gun Fort, and ultimately obtain vital items and prosthetic tools needed to confront later challenges.

The Impact of Slaying the Great Serpent

The Great Serpent is not merely a terrifying spectacle; it’s a significant obstacle standing between Sekiro and his ultimate goal. Killing it unlocks pathways and grants access to resources that are otherwise inaccessible. Here’s a breakdown of the specific benefits:

Access to the Gun Fort: By defeating the Great Serpent at the Ruptured Bridge Valley, you gain access to the Gun Fort. This area contains new enemies, valuable items, and is a key location in the game’s progression.
**Acquisition of the *Fresh Serpent Viscera*: This item is essential for unlocking one of the game’s four endings: the *Purification Ending*. Collecting the Fresh Serpent Viscera requires killing the Great Serpent in the Sunken Valley Passage.
Progression of the Divine Child Questline: Completing certain steps related to the Divine Child quest requires the Fresh Serpent Viscera. This questline is vital for unlocking the Return Ending.
Opportunity for Exploration and Discovery: Opening new areas allows for further exploration, uncovering hidden secrets, and encountering unique enemies and challenges that enrich the overall Sekiro experience.
Advancing the Story: Each encounter and subsequent defeat of the Great Serpent contributes to the narrative, pushing Sekiro closer to fulfilling his mission.

Methods for Eliminating the Great Serpent

Sekiro presents multiple opportunities to confront the Great Serpent, each demanding a different approach and strategy.

First Encounter: Sunken Valley Passage

Stealth is Key: The initial encounter in the Sunken Valley Passage requires stealth and precision. Use the environment to your advantage, staying hidden in the tall grass to avoid detection.
Puppeteer Ninjutsu: After finding the dying monkey, use the Puppeteer Ninjutsu on it. The monkey will distract the serpent, allowing you to sneak past it.
The Vital Strike: After using Puppeteer Ninjutsu, make your way to the end of the narrow path where you’ll have a chance to perform a Vital Strike on the serpent’s eye. This will severely weaken it. This nets you the Fresh Serpent Viscera.

Second Encounter: Ruptured Bridge Valley

The Fall: After the Great Serpent destroys the bridge, you must continue through the area to the left.
The Divine Abduction Fan (Prosthetic Tool): Getting the Divine Abduction prosthetic tool will help clear the many enemies here.
Falling onto the Serpent: Utilize the various points to grapple and eventually jump onto the Great Serpent’s head. Here you can deliver the final, fatal blow, and open the way to the Gun Fort.