Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice Guide
FromSoftware2019PC, PS4, XboxActionRating: 90
Sekiro is an action-adventure game by FromSoftware. Set in a fictionalized Sengoku-period Japan, players control a shinobi named Wolf on a quest to rescue his young master. The game features intense sword combat with a posture/deflection system, stealth mechanics, and grappling hook traversal. Known for its high difficulty and rewarding combat.
🎮 Combat Fundamentals
Posture System (Most Important)
Unlike Dark Souls, you don't wear down HP — you break posture:
- Deflect: Block at the exact moment of impact — builds enemy posture, preserves yours
- Deflect (timed perfectly for maximum posture damage): Timed perfectly — huge posture damage, creates opening
- Hold block: Builds YOUR posture — don't do this too long
- Deathblow: When enemy posture is full, execute for massive damage
💡 The game is about deflecting, not dodging. Learn the timing.
⚔️ Combat Arts & Prosthetics
- Shinobi Firecracker: Stuns animals and creates openings — get this first
- Loaded Axe: Breaks guards, good against shielded enemies
- Loaded Spear: Pulls enemies toward you
- Mortal Blade: High damage, costs spirit emblems
- Ichimonji: Combat art that recovers posture
👑 Boss Guide
- Genichiro: First real challenge — deflect his attacks, Mikiri Counter his thrusts
- Lady Butterfly: Optional but rewarding — use firecrackers in phase 2
- Guardian Ape: Use firecrackers, deflect his sweep attacks
- Corrupted Monk: Stay close, deflect everything
- Isshin, the Sword Saint: Final boss — practice deflecting, use Mikiri Counter
⚠️ Mikiri Counter (dash into thrust attacks) is essential. Learn it early.
🌿 Stealth Tips
- Deathblow from stealth: One-shot most enemies
- Use tall grass: Hide and pick off enemies one by one
- Grabble to rooftops: Plan your approach from above
- Distract enemies: Throw coins to create noise
🗡 Deflect and Posture
- Deflect on the clang, not on the swing; a perfect deflect raises the enemy's posture meter
- Posture break opens a deathblow - two deathblows end most mini-bosses
- Holding block drains your own posture; step back instead of turtling
🪓 Prosthetics That Matter
- Firecracker stuns beasts for a free punish; it trivialises the horse boss
- Loaded Axe breaks shields and posture in one hit
- Umbrella blocks grabs and projectiles - the safest tool in the game
- Skill points go into Mikiri Counter first; it is the answer to every thrust attack