Part 21

Ready for Part 21 in Nioh? This guide breaks down the Fake Tachibana Muneshige boss fight, offering strategies, move analysis, and tips to help you emerge victorious.

Alright, welcome to Part 21! First things first, use the Shrine nearby to get yourself sorted. Then, grab a 'Shade Eye' from your inventory to open up the path ahead. You'll enter a room with a bunch of guardian statues. Don't worry too much about them; focus on the enemies down the main path and the right path – you'll find a Sentry on both. On the left path, there's a Skeleton Warrior. Keep an eye out, as there's a spirit and a corpse at the end of the right path, and another corpse halfway down the left. Honestly, Ginchiyo is a huge help here; she can take down Sentries super fast, though she can be a bit reckless. Once you've cleared the initial enemies, head into the mist in the middle of the room. This will trigger an encounter with an Oni and another Sentry. Remember, even if Ginchiyo looks like she's down, she's usually just stunned and will rejoin the fight later.

Quick Tip: A boss fight is just around the corner! If you need to restock your Ninjutsu or Onmyo magic items, now's the perfect time to do it at the Shrine.

Stick with Ginchiyo down the path and open the next door. After a short cut-scene, you'll be facing our next boss!

Stats / Weaknesses:

• Fake Tachibana Muneshige: Can be staggered and grappled when his Ki is depleted. Vulnerable to debuffs like Lifeseal.

Phases:

1. Initial Encounter: Fake Tachibana uses a variety of sword combos and can buff himself.
2. Ranged Attacks: He'll occasionally use an 'Arrow Barrage' where he fires three arrows in a spread.
3. Special Moves: Watch out for his 'Iai Quickdraw' and the devastating 'Quadrisect' attack.

Strategy:

• Fake Tachibana Muneshige is designed to test your dueling skills. If you've invested in Ninjutsu or Onmyo skills, now's your chance to shine. Skills like Power Pills, elemental abilities, and debuffing talismans (Lifeseal, Devigorate, Weakness) are incredibly effective. Lifeseal is particularly useful, as it opens him up for grapple and finishing attacks.
• Don't be intimidated by his speed or combos. Treat this fight like a more challenging Revenant encounter. He has to manage his Ki, just like you do, and his attacks have limited range. The key is to bait him into attacking, then counter when his Ki is low. Use your own grapple and finishing attacks during these openings.
• When you need a breather or a chance to heal, use the two pillars in the room for cover.
• Boss Moves Breakdown:
  • Sword Combos: Expect standard high, mid, and low attacks, plus a swirling two-hit combo and the 'Swallow's Wing'. He also uses special skills like 'Iai Quickdraw' and 'Quadrisect'. Block or dodge these as best you can.
  • Arrow Barrage: He'll roll back, draw his bow, and fire three arrows in a spread. You can often dodge this, block it, or only get hit by one arrow. Blocking and then re-engaging is a solid tactic.
  • Iai Quickdraw: Get out of range if possible, but be aware his range can be deceptive. If you have enough Ki, blocking this and immediately counter-attacking is a good move.
  • Inner Strength: His katana glows as he charges this buff. If you have the Devigorate Talisman, use it to counter. Otherwise, you'll have to deal with his increased attack power. You *can* try to interrupt him, but be careful not to get caught in his attack.
  • Quadrisect: His most impressive move. He sheathes his sword and unleashes a flurry of strikes. If you have enough Ki, blocking is an option. If not, dodge away. Rolling to the side with a low stance is your best bet if you're too close.
• Continue down the path with Ginchiyo and open the door. As you enter the next area, you'll trigger a cut-scene leading into the boss fight!