How to Beat Takeda Shingen (Yokai) in Nioh 3
Takeda Shingen returns transformed into a massive four-armed demon with significantly increased speed and agility while retaining his brute strength.
Overview
Takeda Shingen returns transformed into a massive four-armed demon with significantly increased speed and agility while retaining his brute strength. The arena has destructible columns that offer no protection. In Yokai Realm, he adds fire and wind enchantments to his fists. Switch to Ninja style for superior dodge capabilities — this fight demands constant evasion.
Recommended Setup
Recommended Level
50+
Element to Use
Fire (Primary)
Bring Fire Talismans and Quick-Change Scrolls. Consider using the Ninjutsu Kusarigama build for this fight.
Boss Moves
indicates a dangerous attack that should be prioritized for dodging.
| Move | Type | Tell | Counter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yokai Punches | melee | Four arms wind up for a rapid combo | Dodge behind him — his massive body makes backstabs easy |
| Yokai Acrobatics | melee | Side jump followed by a diving slam | Ninja dodge sideways at the apex of his jump |
| Fire Slam | aoe | Leaps airborne with fiery aura around fists | Backtrack with repeated ninja dodges — large AoE on landing |
| Magic Bomb | ranged | Gathers fire/wind sphere in palms during Yokai Realm | Backtrack, then ninja dodge after the throw |
| Crimson Slam | aoe | Aura flash, downward arm strike with red glow | Burst Break Counter (R2) upon contact |
| Grab | grab | Black-yellow aura, lunges forward with one arm | Rush slightly sideways — exploit the overshoot for free hits |
Strategy by Phase
In Phase 1, Takeda Shingen (Yokai) uses basic attacks. Learn these patterns before the fight intensifies.
Phase 1 Moves
| Move | Type | Tell | Counter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yokai Punches | melee | Four arms wind up for a rapid combo | Dodge behind him — his massive body makes backstabs easy |
| Yokai Acrobatics | melee | Side jump followed by a diving slam | Ninja dodge sideways at the apex of his jump |
| Fire Slam | aoe | Leaps airborne with fiery aura around fists | Backtrack with repeated ninja dodges — large AoE on landing |
| Crimson Slam | aoe | Aura flash, downward arm strike with red glow | Burst Break Counter (R2) upon contact |
| Grab | grab | Black-yellow aura, lunges forward with one arm | Rush slightly sideways — exploit the overshoot for free hits |
Tips for Beating Takeda Shingen (Yokai)
- Switch to Ninja style for superior dodge capabilities — essential for this fight
- Focus on rear attacks — his massive body makes positioning behind him easy
- Standard strategy: dodge behind, melee combo, then Ninjutsu spam at range
- The grab has the slowest animation — rush sideways and capitalize on his overshoot
- Arena columns are destructible and offer no protection — don't rely on them
- Second phase adds fire and wind to his fists — maintain more distance
Drops & Rewards
| Item | Type | Rarity | Drop Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tiger of Kai Soul Core | soul-core | rare | ~15% |
| Demon King's Horn | material | rare | - |
| Yokai Claw | material | common | - |
Recommended Builds for this Boss
Mission Walkthroughs
Other Boss Guides
Data Sources
Last Updated: Feb 25, 2026Game Version: v1.04