How to Beat Baba Nobuharu in Nioh 3
Baba Nobuharu is a huge demon encountered at the end of Futamata Castle.
Overview
Baba Nobuharu is a huge demon encountered at the end of Futamata Castle. A required story boss, he tests your parrying skills above all else. His attacks are telegraphed but dodging burns Ki quickly, making parrying the far more efficient approach. Watch for his grab attack — identifiable by greyish particles around his hand — as it cannot be blocked or parried.
Recommended Setup
Recommended Level
39+
Element to Use
Water (Primary)
Bring Water Talismans and Quick-Change Scrolls. Consider using the Water Spear Build build for this fight.
Boss Moves
indicates a dangerous attack that should be prioritized for dodging.
| Move | Type | Tell | Counter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy Slam | melee | Raises weapon overhead with both hands | Parry for Ki efficiency, or dodge sideways |
| Sweep Combo | melee | Steps forward and winds up laterally | Block in mid stance or parry the first hit |
| Decoy Attacks | melee | Attack animation appears transparent and paler | Do not dodge — wait for the real follow-up attack |
| Grab Attack | grab | Greyish particles gather around his hand | Cannot be parried — dodge sideways immediately, deals ~50% HP |
| Water Phase Burst | aoe | Arena floods with water energy, boss glows blue | Stay at arena edges, avoid melee, use Ninjutsu at range |
Strategy by Phase
In Phase 1, Baba Nobuharu uses basic attacks. Learn these patterns before the fight intensifies.
Phase 1 Moves
| Move | Type | Tell | Counter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy Slam | melee | Raises weapon overhead with both hands | Parry for Ki efficiency, or dodge sideways |
| Sweep Combo | melee | Steps forward and winds up laterally | Block in mid stance or parry the first hit |
| Decoy Attacks | melee | Attack animation appears transparent and paler | Do not dodge — wait for the real follow-up attack |
| Grab Attack | grab | Greyish particles gather around his hand | Cannot be parried — dodge sideways immediately, deals ~50% HP |
Tips for Beating Baba Nobuharu
- Parrying is the name of the game — far more Ki-efficient than dodging
- Play as Samurai for stronger attacks and better parry mechanics
- Switch to Ninja only for Burst Break, then immediately switch back
- His grab is the most dangerous move — watch for grey particles around his hand
- Decoy attacks appear transparent and paler than real attacks — don't panic dodge
- During water phase, maintain distance and spam Ninjutsu
Drops & Rewards
| Item | Type | Rarity | Drop Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baba's War Axe | weapon | rare | ~30% |
| Demon Horn | material | common | - |
| Futamata Armor (piece) | armor | rare | Guaranteed |
Recommended Builds for this Boss
Data Sources
Last Updated: Feb 25, 2026Game Version: v1.04