Part 148

Master the Sekigahara mission in Nioh 3! Learn Shima Sakon's spear attacks, grapple moves, and Kara-Jishi summons to defeat him. Get expert tips and strategies.

Alright, so you've made it to the Mission "Sekigahara," and guess what? It's time to face off against Shima Sakon. He's a spear user, just like a lot of the enemies you've been dealing with, so you should already be familiar with some of his moves. But don't get too comfortable – Shima's got a few tricks up his sleeve, including some parries and even a special move that looks like the Living Weapon skill you can use!

Stats / Weaknesses:

• Shima Sakon is a spear user.
• He utilizes parry moves like Leg Sweep and Body Swap.
• He can use a "Celestial Weapon" attack, similar to the player's Living Weapon skill.
• When his health is low, he summons his Guardian Spirit, Kara-Jishi.
• Kara-Jishi electrifies Shima's weapon and creates an electrical field around him.

Phases:

1. Phase 1: Standard Combat
   Shima will primarily use his spear attacks, including standard combos, Leg Sweep, Body Swap, and the Celestial Weapon slam. Your best bet here is to learn his attack patterns. Wait for him to finish a combo, then quickly get in a few hits and retreat. Keep your buffs ready, but save your most potent ones like Sloth Talisman for later.
2. Phase 2: Kara-Jishi Summon
   As Shima's health drops, he'll summon Kara-Jishi. This is where things get more dangerous. His spear will become electrified, and a small electrical field will surround him. Getting hit by this will electrify you, slowing your attacks and movement. Be extra cautious and try to maintain distance when the field is active. You can sometimes dash through the electrical field as it dissipates to get some hits in.
3. Phase 3: Enhanced Kara-Jishi Attacks
   Shima will start using more advanced Kara-Jishi abilities. These include Kara-Jishi Thrust, where Kara-Jishi breathes lightning after a spear combo, and Lightning Fall, where Shima jumps and slams his spear down, electrifying the area upon impact. For the thrust, try to dodge through it like Nue's lightning breath. For Lightning Fall, roll away from the impact zone and then rush in to attack if you have the Ki.

Strategy:

• Master Spear Defense: Since Shima uses a spear, knowing how to dodge and counter spear attacks is crucial. Stay out of his immediate range until he commits to a combo, then dash in, land a few hits, and get out.
• Watch for Grapples: Shima uses grapple moves like Leg Sweep and Body Swap more frequently than other spear users. Be ready to dodge these.
• Dodge the Celestial Weapon: His aerial spear slam is telegraphed but used often. Dodge to the side to avoid it.
• Headbutt Warning: If you stay too close for too long, he'll try to headbutt you. It doesn't do massive damage, but it can put you in a bad spot if your health or Ki is low. You usually have time to dodge away after he connects.
• Manage the Electrification: When Kara-Jishi is out, his weapon and the area around him become electrified. This debuff slows you down significantly. Try to bait out his attacks and only engage when the electrical effects are minimal or have passed.
• Strategic Buffs: Use your buffs and debuffs wisely. Sloth Talisman is particularly effective when Shima is close to defeat or when you need to create an opening. Apply other buffs and debuffs throughout the fight, saving the strongest for the final push.
• Exploit Ki: Keep an eye on Shima's Ki. If it gets low, he's more vulnerable, giving you a great opportunity to deal significant damage.
• Heal and Recover: Always keep your health topped up. Don't be afraid to use healing items or find brief moments to recover Ki.

By understanding his moveset and using your resources smartly, you'll be able to take down Shima Sakon and conquer the Sekigahara mission!