Shinobi Medicine Rank 1 is the initial tier of healing upgrades available to Sekiro, significantly improving the effectiveness of his Healing Gourd. This upgrade is vital for early-game survival, allowing Sekiro to recover more Vitality per use and better withstand the harsh challenges of Ashina.
What is Shinobi Medicine?
Shinobi Medicine refers to the various upgrades that enhance Sekiro's healing capabilities, primarily through his Healing Gourd. These upgrades are obtained by collecting Gourd Seeds from specific locations or defeating certain mini-bosses and then giving them to Emma at the Dilapidated Temple.
Obtaining the First Gourd Seed
The first Gourd Seed is typically found relatively early in the game. After progressing through the initial areas of Ashina Outskirts and defeating some enemies, you will likely encounter a merchant or find a seed in a chest. One common location for an early Gourd Seed is near the Ashina Castle Gate area, often dropped by a mini-boss or found in a hidden spot.
Giving the Seed to Emma
Once you have acquired a Gourd Seed, return to the Dilapidated Temple. Speak with Emma, the physician who resides there. She will recognize the seed and offer to upgrade your Healing Gourd. This process consumes the seed and increases the number of charges your Healing Gourd has.
Rank 1 Upgrade Benefits
The first upgrade, effectively 'Shinobi Medicine Rank 1,' increases the number of Healing Gourd uses from the initial 3 to 4. This might seem like a small increase, but it can be the difference between life and death in challenging encounters. More Gourd uses mean more opportunities to recover Vitality during prolonged fights.
Subsequent Upgrades
As you progress further into the game, you will find more Gourd Seeds. Each seed you give to Emma will further increase the number of Healing Gourd uses. Collecting all Gourd Seeds is essential for maximizing Sekiro's survivability, allowing him to carry more healing charges into difficult boss fights and exploration segments.
Strategic Importance
Prioritizing the acquisition of Gourd Seeds and upgrading your Healing Gourd should be a high priority for any Sekiro player. Having more healing charges allows for more mistakes and provides a greater buffer against enemy damage, making the game more manageable, especially for those new to its demanding combat.