Sekiro: 6 Shield Enemies You'll Want to Master

Introduction

In FromSoftware's acclaimed action-adventure game Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, shield enemies pose a formidable challenge to players. These heavily armored adversaries require specialized tactics to defeat, and understanding their unique abilities and weaknesses is crucial for success. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the six most notable shield enemies in Sekiro and provide detailed strategies for overcoming their formidable defenses.

1. Ashina Elite: Jinsuke Saze

Jinsuke Saze, an Ashina Elite encountered in the Ashina Outskirts, is the first major shield enemy players encounter. His shield can block both normal and perilous attacks, rendering him immune to frontal assaults. To defeat him effectively, employ the following strategies:

• Deflect his attacks: Timing is key when deflecting Jinsuke's attacks. Wait for him to strike and deflect just before impact.
• Use thrust attacks: Thrust attacks penetrate shields, allowing you to damage Jinsuke from the front. Consider using the Ashina Cross or Sakura Dance skills for this purpose.
• Guard break: Use the Ichimonji: Double technique to momentarily break Jinsuke's guard, creating an opening for a critical hit.

2. Blazing Bull

The Blazing Bull, a fearsome beast encountered in the Ashina Outskirts, presents a unique challenge with its shield and fire attacks. To conquer this formidable foe:

• Rush and dodge: The bull charges frequently, so dodge or deflect its attacks while running towards it.
• Use the Prosthetic Arm: The Firecracker Prosthetic is highly effective against the Blazing Bull, as it stuns it temporarily, allowing you to attack its vulnerable legs.
• Exploit its weakness: The bull's backside is its weakest point. Aim for it with your attacks whenever possible.

3. Red-Eyed Samurai

Red-Eyed Samurais, encountered throughout Sekiro, are highly skilled shield-wielders. They combine aggressive attacks with sturdy defenses, requiring players to be both agile and strategic in their approach:

• Circle and strike: Move around the samurai, looking for openings to strike. Avoid正面confrontations as they excel at blocking正面attacks.
• Deflect and counter: Deflect their attacks and quickly follow up with counterattacks to create openings.
• Use Mikiri Counter: When the samurai performs a thrust attack, use the Mikiri Counter to expose their back for a critical hit.

4. General Naomori Kawarada

General Naomori Kawarada, the boss in the Abandoned Dungeon, is a master swordsman with a nearly impenetrable shield. To overcome him:

• Use the Loaded Axe Prosthetic: The Loaded Axe Prosthetic's Axe of the Ashina Arts skill is highly effective against Kawarada's shield, breaking it instantly with a single hit.
• Exploit his vulnerable stance: After blocking an attack, Kawarada briefly lowers his guard. This is your chance to attack him with your sword or Prosthetic Arm.
• Be patient: Kawarada's health bar may seem daunting, but remain patient and focus on chipping away at his defense while avoiding his powerful attacks.

5. Lone Shadow: Masanaga the Spear-Bearer

Masanaga the Spear-Bearer, a Lone Shadow encountered in the Sunken Valley, combines a shield with a deadly spear. To defeat him effectively, employ these tactics:

• Use the Mist Raven Prosthetic: The Mist Raven Prosthetic allows you to quickly dodge Masanaga's attacks, including his shield bash.
• Deflect and attack: Deflect Masanaga's spear thrusts and quickly counterattack with your own strikes.
• Abuse his blind spot: Masanaga's shield leaves a small blind spot on his right side. Use this opening to sneak in attacks.

6. Guardian Ape

The Guardian Ape, a fearsome boss fought twice in the Ashina Outskirts and Fountainhead Palace, presents an imposing challenge with its shield and deadly attacks. To overcome this formidable foe:

• Phase 1: Attack its shins: In Phase 1, focus on attacking the Guardian Ape's shins. It will break its posture quickly, allowing you to grapple it.
• Phase 2: Use the Malcontent Ring: In Phase 2, use the Malcontent Ring to summon a terror-inducing apparition that distracts the ape, allowing you to attack its neck.
• Exploit its fear: The Guardian Ape is fearful of fire and headless corpses. Use the Flame Vent Prosthetic and Headless's Bite skill to inflict fear on it, staggering it temporarily.

Tips and Tricks

• Use the Tanto: The Tanto can break shields with a charged attack. Time the attack carefully to interrupt the enemy's shield bash or attack.
• Consider Stealth: Some shield enemies can be assassinated from behind. Use stealth to approach them silently and deliver a critical hit.
• Learn their patterns: Observe the attack patterns of shield enemies to anticipate their moves and exploit their weaknesses.
• Don't panic: Stay calm and composed when facing shield enemies. Panic often leads to errors, making you more vulnerable to their attacks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Attacking from the front: Frontal attacks against shielded enemies are ineffective. Use thrust attacks, guard breaks, or exploit their weaknesses to damage them effectively.
• Undestimating their mobility: Some shield enemies are surprisingly mobile. Don't get caught off guard and be prepared to dodge or deflect their attacks from different angles.
• Ignoring their weaknesses: Each shield enemy has unique vulnerabilities. Familiarize yourself with their weaknesses and exploit them to gain an advantage.
• Being too aggressive: While it's tempting to go on the offensive against shield enemies, excessive aggression can lead to mistakes. Be patient and wait for the right opportunities to attack.

Conclusion

Mastering the strategies for defeating the six shield enemies in Sekiro is essential for success in this challenging action-adventure game. By understanding their unique abilities and weaknesses, employing effective tactics, and avoiding common mistakes, players can overcome these formidable adversaries and progress further in their quest to restore honor and avenge their fallen master.