Sekiro: Defeating The Elite Samurai Guide

by Alex Braham 42 views

Hey guys! Having trouble with those pesky Elite Samurai in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice? Don't worry, you're not alone! These guys can be a real pain, especially early on in the game. But fear not, because this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to defeat them and continue your journey to avenge yourself.

Understanding the Elite Samurai

Before we dive into the strategies, let's talk about what makes these Elite Samurai so challenging. First off, their posture is incredibly high. They can block many of your attacks without flinching, making it difficult to break their defense. Secondly, they have a wide range of attacks, from quick slashes to powerful thrusts, keeping you on your toes. Finally, their placement in the game often means you're facing them in tight spaces or alongside other enemies, adding an extra layer of difficulty.

Why Are They So Tough?

The Elite Samurai's difficulty comes from a combination of factors:

  • High Posture: Their ability to withstand multiple attacks without breaking posture makes them hard to pressure.
  • Varied Attack Patterns: They mix up their attacks, making it difficult to predict and deflect properly.
  • Strategic Placement: They are often placed in areas that limit your movement or put you at a disadvantage.
  • Damage Output: Their attacks can deal significant damage, quickly draining your health if you're not careful.

Recognizing Different Types

While the core strategies remain the same, there are slight variations in the Elite Samurai you'll encounter throughout the game. Some may have different weapons or additional moves, so it's important to adapt your approach accordingly. Keep an eye out for these variations and adjust your tactics as needed.

General Strategies for Defeating Elite Samurai

So, how do we overcome these challenges? Here are some general strategies that will help you in most encounters with Elite Samurai.

Mastering Deflection

Deflection is your best friend in Sekiro, and it's especially crucial against the Elite Samurai. Instead of simply blocking, aim to deflect their attacks at the last possible moment. This will not only prevent damage but also significantly increase their posture damage. Practice makes perfect, so spend some time getting the timing down. Remember, a successful deflection will produce a distinct 'clang' sound and a spark effect.

To master deflection:

  • Anticipate Attacks: Watch their movements carefully to anticipate when they're about to strike.
  • Time Your Deflections: Press the block button (usually L1 or LB) just before the attack lands.
  • Listen for the Clang: The distinct sound indicates a successful deflection.
  • Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the better you'll become at timing your deflections.

Aggression is Key

While deflection is important, you can't just stand around blocking all day. Be aggressive! After deflecting a series of attacks, follow up with your own strikes to deal vitality and posture damage. Don't give them a chance to recover. However, be mindful of their counterattacks and be ready to deflect again.

Why aggression works:

  • Posture Damage: Constant pressure will eventually break their posture, opening them up for a finishing blow.
  • Vitality Damage: Depleting their vitality makes it easier to break their posture.
  • Disrupting Attacks: Aggression can interrupt their attack patterns, preventing them from using their most dangerous moves.

Utilizing Combat Arts and Prosthetic Tools

Don't forget about your combat arts and prosthetic tools! These can be incredibly useful for breaking through the Elite Samurai's defenses. The Loaded Axe, for example, can deal significant posture damage, while the Flame Vent can set them on fire, causing them to stagger.

Here's how to use them effectively:

  • Experiment with Different Tools: Find the tools that work best for your playstyle and the specific enemy you're facing.
  • Time Your Attacks: Use your combat arts and tools strategically to interrupt their attacks or create openings.
  • Upgrade Your Tools: Upgrading your prosthetic tools will increase their effectiveness and unlock new abilities.

Mastering Mikiri Counter

Many Elite Samurai will use perilous thrust attacks. The Mikiri Counter is a powerful technique that allows you to punish these attacks and deal massive posture damage. When you see the perilous attack symbol (a red kanji), dodge into the thrust to perform a Mikiri Counter. This will leave the enemy vulnerable and significantly weaken their posture.

Tips for performing the Mikiri Counter:

  • Watch for the Perilous Symbol: This is your cue to prepare for the Mikiri Counter.
  • Dodge into the Thrust: Press the dodge button (usually Circle or B) towards the enemy as they thrust.
  • Practice the Timing: The timing can be tricky, so practice on weaker enemies until you get the hang of it.

Specific Tips for Different Encounters

Now, let's look at some specific tips for some of the more challenging Elite Samurai encounters in the game.

The Ashina Castle Samurai

This is one of the first Elite Samurai you'll encounter, and he can be quite intimidating. He's located in the Ashina Castle area. Focus on deflecting his attacks and using the Mikiri Counter on his thrust attacks. Don't be afraid to use your healing gourds if you need them.

  • Location: Ashina Castle
  • Key Strategies: Deflection, Mikiri Counter, Patient Approach

The Seven Ashina Spears - Shikibu Toshikatsu Yamauchi

This mini-boss is a tough customer, but he's also a great opportunity to practice your skills. He uses a long spear, so be prepared for a lot of thrust attacks. The Mikiri Counter is essential here. Also, consider using the Loaded Umbrella to block his sweeping attacks.

  • Location: Ashina Reservoir
  • Key Strategies: Mikiri Counter, Loaded Umbrella, Aggressive Follow-Up

Lone Shadow Swordsman

These guys are fast and agile, making them difficult to hit. Use your quick attacks to disrupt their movements and be ready to deflect their counterattacks. The Firecrackers prosthetic tool can also be useful for creating openings.

  • Location: Various Locations
  • Key Strategies: Quick Attacks, Firecrackers, Deflection

Advanced Techniques

Once you've mastered the basics, you can start incorporating some advanced techniques to make these fights even easier.

Using the Ungo's Sugar and Ako's Sugar

These sugars can temporarily boost your attack power and defense, giving you an edge in combat. Use them strategically before engaging the Elite Samurai or when you need a quick boost.

  • Ungo's Sugar: Reduces Vitality damage taken.
  • Ako's Sugar: Increases Attack Power

Stealth and Posture Break

If possible, try to stealth attack the Elite Samurai to deal significant posture damage before the fight even begins. This can make the encounter much easier, especially if you can land a deathblow right away.

  • Look for Opportunities: Identify areas where you can approach undetected.
  • Use Stealth Items: Items like the Ceramic Shard can help distract enemies and create openings.

Learn Enemy Attack Patterns

The more you fight the Elite Samurai, the more you'll learn their attack patterns. Pay attention to their movements and anticipate their attacks to deflect them more effectively. This will also help you identify opportunities to counterattack.

  • Observe Carefully: Watch their movements and identify patterns.
  • Adapt Your Strategy: Adjust your tactics based on what you learn about their attack patterns.

Conclusion

Defeating the Elite Samurai in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice requires patience, practice, and a good understanding of the game's combat mechanics. By mastering deflection, using your combat arts and prosthetic tools effectively, and learning the enemy's attack patterns, you'll be able to overcome these challenges and continue your journey. Good luck, and never give up! Remember to stay aggressive, stay focused, and you'll be slaying those Elite Samurai in no time! Have fun playing, guys! You got this! Happy gaming!