How to Beat Yamagata Masakage in Nioh 3
Yamagata Masakage is the first major boss in Nioh 3, encountered at Hitokoto Slope.
Overview
Yamagata Masakage is the first major boss in Nioh 3, encountered at Hitokoto Slope. A fearsome samurai wielding a massive naginata, he can kill unprepared players in just a few hits. This fight is designed as a skill check that tests your understanding of Ki management, dodge timing, and Burst Break mechanics. Mastering this fight sets the foundation for everything that follows.
Recommended Setup
Recommended Level
10+
Element to Use
Lightning (Primary)
Bring Lightning Talismans and Quick-Change Scrolls. Consider using the Lightning Sword Build build for this fight.
Boss Moves
indicates a dangerous attack that should be prioritized for dodging.
| Move | Type | Tell | Counter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naginata Sweep | melee | Steps back and draws naginata to the right | Dodge into the sweep or block with Mid Stance |
| Overhead Cleave | melee | Raises naginata high above head, brief pause | Dodge sideways — long recovery window for punishment |
| Thrust Combo | melee | Lowers stance and points naginata forward | Sidestep the thrust, then attack during recovery |
| Burst Attack | melee | Red glow aura appears around body | Use Burst Break (R2+Circle) to counter for massive Ki damage |
| Yokai Realm Slam | aoe | Jumps high and slams naginata into ground | Sprint away from impact zone, creates Yokai Realm pool |
| Spinning Cleave | aoe | Crouches and spins with naginata extended | Back away or time a jump over the sweep |
Strategy by Phase
In Phase 1, Yamagata Masakage uses basic attacks. Learn these patterns before the fight intensifies.
Phase 1 Moves
| Move | Type | Tell | Counter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naginata Sweep | melee | Steps back and draws naginata to the right | Dodge into the sweep or block with Mid Stance |
| Overhead Cleave | melee | Raises naginata high above head, brief pause | Dodge sideways — long recovery window for punishment |
| Thrust Combo | melee | Lowers stance and points naginata forward | Sidestep the thrust, then attack during recovery |
| Burst Attack | melee | Red glow aura appears around body | Use Burst Break (R2+Circle) to counter for massive Ki damage |
Tips for Beating Yamagata Masakage
- Learn to use Burst Break (R2+Circle) on his red-glow attacks — this is the key to the fight
- Stay at medium range to bait his Overhead Cleave, then punish during recovery
- In Phase 2, avoid Yokai Realm pools — they drain your Ki recovery
- Defeating him unlocks the Crimson General armor set, one of the best early-game sets
- Switch to Ninja style for faster dodges if struggling with his reach
- Lightning element weapons are particularly effective
Drops & Rewards
| Item | Type | Rarity | Drop Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crimson General Armor (piece) | armor | rare | Guaranteed |
| Yamagata's Naginata | weapon | rare | ~30% |
| Demon Horn | material | common | - |
Recommended Builds for this Boss
Mission Walkthroughs
Data Sources
Last Updated: Feb 25, 2026Game Version: v1.04