Fast travel in Sekiro is primarily achieved through Sculptor's Idols, allowing players to quickly traverse the vast world and return to the Dilapidated Temple. This mechanic is essential for managing inventory, spending skill points, and returning to previously visited areas without extensive backtracking.
Unlocking Sculptor's Idol Travel
The ability to fast travel is unlocked early in the game. After defeating the first few enemies in the Ashina Outskirts and grappling to a ledge, you will find your first Sculptor's Idol. Interacting with this idol will not only allow you to rest and manage your inventory but also unlock the 'Travel' option. This option allows you to fast travel to any other Sculptor's Idol you have discovered.
How to Use Fast Travel
To fast travel:
- Interact with a Sculptor's Idol: Find any discovered Sculptor's Idol in the game world.
- Select 'Travel': Choose the 'Travel' option from the idol's menu.
- Choose a Destination: A map will appear showing all the Sculptor's Idols you have unlocked. Select your desired destination.
- Confirm Travel: Confirm your choice to be transported to the selected idol.
The Dilapidated Temple serves as a central hub, and you can always travel back there from any idol. This is crucial for spending Skill Points, upgrading your Healing Gourd with Emma, and interacting with merchants like Fujioka the Info Broker.
Homeward Idol
In addition to Sculptor's Idols, you can also use the consumable item Homeward Idol. Using a Homeward Idol allows you to instantly return to the Dilapidated Temple from anywhere in the world, even outside of an idol's vicinity. This is a convenient way to quickly return to the temple for essential services without needing to find an idol first.
Limitations and Importance
Fast travel is restricted to Sculptor's Idols and the use of Homeward Idols. You cannot fast travel during combat or in certain story-critical moments. The ability to fast travel significantly reduces the time spent traversing the map, allowing players to focus more on exploration, combat, and completing quests. It's also vital for managing your inventory and ensuring you don't lose valuable items upon death by returning to the temple to deposit them.