Experience and Skill Points are the primary means of character progression in Sekiro. Players earn experience by defeating enemies, which accumulates into Skill Points that can be spent at Sculptor's Idols to unlock new Combat Arts, passive abilities, and prosthetic tool upgrades, enhancing Sekiro's combat prowess.
Earning Experience
Experience (XP) is awarded for defeating enemies, both common foes and bosses. The amount of XP gained varies depending on the difficulty of the enemy. Bosses and mini-bosses typically yield a significant amount of XP, often enough to contribute substantially towards unlocking a Skill Point.
Skill Points and Unlocking Skills
As you accumulate XP, it fills a progress bar. Once this bar is full, you earn a Skill Point. Skill Points are then used at any Sculptor's Idol to unlock new skills from several skill trees. These skills can range from new combat techniques to passive buffs.
Where to Spend Skill Points
To spend your Skill Points, you must interact with a Sculptor's Idol. The 'Skill' option will appear in the idol's menu, allowing you to browse and purchase available skills. you must be at an idol to spend points; you cannot do so mid-combat or while exploring.
Types of Skills Available
Sekiro's skills are divided into several categories, each offering different benefits:
- Shinobi Arts: Focuses on offensive combat techniques, including new sword combos and special attacks. Examples include the 'Mikiri Counter' (though this is learned early and not a skill point purchase) and various follow-up attacks.
- Prosthetic Arts: Enhances the effectiveness or utility of your Shinobi Prosthetic Tools.
- Ashina Arts: Offers defensive and utility-based skills, such as improved posture recovery or the ability to use items more quickly.
- Temple Arts: Provides skills related to stealth and evasion.
The Importance of Skill Progression
Investing Skill Points wisely is crucial for adapting to the game's increasing difficulty. Unlocking new Combat Arts can provide much-needed offensive options, while passive skills can improve your survivability and efficiency. It's recommended to explore different skill trees to find a playstyle that suits you best.
Losing XP Upon Death
Be aware that upon death, Sekiro loses half of his currently accumulated XP. If you die again before recovering your lost XP (by defeating the enemy that killed you), that XP is lost permanently. This mechanic encourages careful play and strategic use of Sculptor's Idols to bank progress.