Nioh 3 Beginner Guide
New to Nioh 3? This guide covers everything you need to know to get started, from combat basics to stat allocation.
Getting Started
Nioh 3 is a challenging action RPG that rewards patience, practice, and preparation. Unlike many action games, button mashing will get you killed quickly. Success comes from understanding enemy patterns, managing your Ki (stamina), and mastering the stance system.
The game follows Tokugawa Takechiyo through a supernatural version of feudal Japan. You'll face human enemies, yokai (demons), and massive bosses as you progress through missions.
Combat Basics
Nioh 3's combat revolves around three core mechanics: attacking, blocking/dodging, and Ki management.
Attacking
Light attacks (Square/X) are fast but weak. Heavy attacks (Triangle/Y) deal more damage but are slower. Mix them for combos.
Blocking
Hold L1/LB to block. Blocking consumes Ki. If your Ki runs out while blocking, you'll be guard broken.
Dodging
X/A to dodge. Has invincibility frames (i-frames). Low Stance has the best dodge. Dodging costs less Ki than blocking.
Ki (Stamina)
Every action costs Ki. Running out of Ki leaves you vulnerable. Learn Ki Pulse to recover Ki quickly.
Stance System
Nioh 3 features three stances that dramatically change your moveset and playstyle. Switch stances with R1+Face buttons.
| Stance | Damage | Speed | Ki Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | High | Slow | High | Maximum damage, finishing blows |
| Mid | Medium | Medium | Medium | Balanced combat, blocking |
| Low | Low | Fast | Low | Dodging, status application |
Ki Pulse (Residual)
Ki Pulse is the most important mechanic to master. After attacking, press R1 when the blue particles converge on your character to instantly recover spent Ki.
How to Ki Pulse:
- Attack an enemy (notice blue particles appear)
- Watch the particles move toward your character
- Press R1 when they converge (timing is forgiving)
- Your Ki bar will flash and recover
Flux: An advanced technique where you Ki Pulse while also switching stances. This recovers even more Ki. Unlock Flux skills in the Samurai tree.
Stats for Beginners
Stats in Nioh 3 affect your HP, Ki, damage, and equipment options. Here's what each stat does:
| Stat | Primary Effect | Weapon Scaling |
|---|---|---|
| Constitution | HP, Poison Resistance | Spear |
| Heart | Ki, Fire Resistance | Sword, Bow |
| Courage | Ki Recovery, Lightning Res. | Tonfas |
| Stamina | Equipment Weight | Axe |
| Strength | Equipment Weight, Damage | Odachi, Axe |
| Skill | Ki Pulse, Ninjutsu Power | Dual Swords, Kusarigama |
| Dexterity | Ninjutsu Capacity | Kusarigama, Hatchets |
| Magic | Onmyo Capacity | Switchglaive |
Choosing Your Weapon
Nioh 3 has 10 weapon types. Here are recommendations for beginners:
Recommended for Beginners
- Sword - Most versatile, balanced in all stances
- Spear - Good range keeps you safe
- Odachi - High damage, simpler combos
Moderate Difficulty
- Dual Swords - Fast but requires aggression
- Axe - Slow but devastating
- Switchglaive - Unique stance morphing
Advanced
- Kusarigama - Complex, range-dependent
- Fists - Very short range, high skill ceiling
- Hatchets - Thrown attacks require management
Essential Tips
- 1.Always carry Quick-Change Scrolls. These give you a second chance when you die - essential for boss fights.
- 2.Use Shrines frequently. Resting at Shrines refills your Elixirs and saves progress.
- 3.Learn one weapon deeply. Master one weapon before experimenting with others.
- 4.Check enemy weaknesses. Use elemental talismans against weak enemies for huge damage bonuses.
- 5.Don't hoard consumables. Use your items - they're meant to help you.
- 6.Summon help if stuck. No shame in using Ochoko Cups to summon player help for tough bosses.