Loaded Axe & Upgrades
The Loaded Axe is one of the initial Prosthetic Tools available to Wolf, and it serves as a powerful tool for breaking enemy posture and staggering opponents. When activated, Wolf swings the axe in a wide, heavy arc, dealing substantial damage and significantly impacting an enemy's Posture gauge. This makes it particularly effective against enemies with high posture or those who tend to block frequently. The Loaded Axe consumes two Spirit Emblems per use, a moderate cost that allows for several applications in combat before needing to be replenished. Its primary function is to create openings for follow-up attacks or to interrupt dangerous enemy combos. For example, a well-timed use of the Loaded Axe against a charging enemy can prevent them from reaching Wolf and dealing damage. The Sculptor, found at the Dilapidated Temple, is responsible for crafting and upgrading this tool, requiring specific materials and Sen.
The Loaded Axe boasts several potent upgrades that enhance its effectiveness and versatility. The first major upgrade is the Loaded Double Axe, which allows Wolf to perform two consecutive axe swings, further increasing its posture damage potential and staggering capability. This upgrade requires materials such as Scrap Iron and Black Gunpowder. Another significant upgrade is the Loaded Umbrella, which, while a different tool, can be seen as a complementary defensive option that pairs well with the aggressive nature of the axe. However, focusing solely on the axe's direct upgrades, the Loaded Double Axe is the primary path for increasing its raw power. Players who find themselves struggling to break the guard of certain enemies, such as the Ashina Samurai, will find the Loaded Axe and its subsequent upgrades to be invaluable. The strategic use of the Loaded Axe, especially when combined with other Prosthetic Tools or Combat Arts, can significantly simplify challenging encounters and allow players to overcome formidable foes like the Chained Ogre more efficiently.