How to Beat Yamagata Masakage (Yokai) in Nioh 3
Yamagata Masakage returns on horseback, now transformed into a powerful yokai.
Overview
Yamagata Masakage returns on horseback, now transformed into a powerful yokai. Far more aggressive than his first human encounter, he moves constantly and uses fire-based attacks in Dark Realm. Burst Break opportunities are frequent — capitalize on them for massive Ki damage. Water element is his primary weakness this time.
Recommended Setup
Recommended Level
43+
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mounted Charge | melee | Rears horse back, lowers lance | Dodge sideways at the last moment — long recovery after charge |
| Naginata Combo | melee | Rapid weapon swings from horseback | Block in mid stance, counterattack between swings |
| Burst Attack | melee | Red glow aura, lengthy vertical wind-up | Burst Break (R2+Circle) — very easy to read |
| Circular Weapon Sweep | aoe | Spins weapon in a wide arc, dismounts briefly | Back away or dodge through the sweep |
| Fire Wave | aoe | Dark Realm activates, fire gathers at weapon | Sprint perpendicular to the wave direction |
Strategy by Phase
In Phase 1, Yamagata Masakage (Yokai) uses basic attacks. Learn these patterns before the fight intensifies.
Phase 1 Moves
| Move | Type | Tell | Counter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mounted Charge | melee | Rears horse back, lowers lance | Dodge sideways at the last moment — long recovery after charge |
| Naginata Combo | melee | Rapid weapon swings from horseback | Block in mid stance, counterattack between swings |
| Burst Attack | melee | Red glow aura, lengthy vertical wind-up | Burst Break (R2+Circle) — very easy to read |
| Circular Weapon Sweep | aoe | Spins weapon in a wide arc, dismounts briefly | Back away or dodge through the sweep |
Tips for Beating Yamagata Masakage (Yokai)
- Don't chase him — bait him into attacking, block, then punish
- Samurai style mid stance is best for maintaining Ki while blocking
- Burst Break opportunities are frequent and easy to read — always capitalize
- Position behind him — very few attacks can hit you there
- Use Water Familiar Talismans for bonus damage on his water weakness
- Use Firestop Talismans during Dark Realm for fire resistance
Drops & Rewards
| Item | Type | Rarity | Drop Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smithing Text: Crimson General's Armor | material | exotic | ~10% |
| Yokai Horn | material | common | - |
Recommended Builds for this Boss
Mission Walkthroughs
Other Boss Guides
Data Sources
Last Updated: Feb 25, 2026Game Version: v1.04