Nioh 3 Combat System Guide
A deep dive into Nioh 3's combat mechanics. Learn the systems that make combat rewarding and master techniques to dominate every encounter.
Overview
Nioh 3's combat is built around the interplay of Ki (stamina), stances, and player skill. Unlike many action RPGs, understanding and mastering these mechanics is essential for success—even with optimal gear.
Ki System
Ki is your stamina resource. Almost every action—attacking, blocking, dodging— consumes Ki. Managing Ki is the core skill that separates good players from great ones.
Ki Consumption
| Action | Ki Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Light Attack | Low | Varies by weapon and stance |
| Heavy Attack | Medium-High | Higher damage, more commitment |
| Dodge/Dash | Low-Medium | Stance affects i-frames |
| Block | Varies | Based on attack blocked |
| Skills | Medium-High | Specific to each skill |
Ki Recovery
- •Passive Recovery: Ki regenerates automatically when not performing actions
- •Ki Pulse (Samurai): Time R1 after attacks to instantly recover Ki
- •Mist (Ninja): Dodging recovers Ki more efficiently
- •Out of Ki: Character becomes exhausted and vulnerable
Blocking & Dodging
Blocking
- • Hold L1 to block incoming attacks
- • Consumes Ki based on attack strength
- • Mid Stance has best block stability
- • Some attacks are unblockable (red glow)
- • Guard break leaves you vulnerable
Dodging
- • Press X/A to dodge in a direction
- • Has invincibility frames (i-frames)
- • Low Stance: Longest i-frames, short distance
- • High Stance: Shortest i-frames, longest distance
- • Equipment weight affects dodge speed
Agility Rating
Your equipment weight determines agility, which affects dodge speed and Ki recovery:
| Rating | Weight % | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| A | < 30% | Fastest dodges, best Ki recovery |
| B | 30-70% | Balanced (recommended) |
| C | 70-100% | Slow dodges, poor Ki recovery |
| D | > 100% | Severely impaired movement |
Status Effects
Elemental attacks build up status effects on enemies (and you). Understanding these effects is crucial for optimal damage and avoiding dangerous debuffs.
| Element | Status Effect | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Fire | Scorched | Damage over time, reduces fire resistance |
| Water | Saturated | Reduces defense, increases Ki damage taken |
| Lightning | Electrified | Slows movement and attack speed |
| Earth | Muddied | Increases Ki consumption |
| Purity | Purified | Removes yokai buffs, extra Ki damage |
| Corruption | Corrupted | Builds confusion when combined |
| Poison | Poisoned | Strong damage over time |
| Paralysis | Paralyzed | Briefly immobilizes target |
Yokai Mechanics
Yokai enemies have unique mechanics that differ from human enemies:
Ki Break
When a yokai's Ki is depleted, they become staggered and take massive increased damage. This is your main damage window—use your strongest attacks!
Dark Realm
Some areas become corrupted with yokai energy, reducing your Ki recovery. Clear Dark Realm pools by attacking the source or purifying with Purity damage.
Burst Attacks
Red-glowing attacks can't be blocked. Learn to recognize these and dodge or use Burst Counter to punish them.
Advanced Techniques
Flux (Stance Switching)
Switching stances during Ki Pulse grants bonus Ki recovery. Flux II (skill) allows double stance switches for even more Ki. Essential for aggressive play.
Animation Canceling
Many attack recovery animations can be canceled with dodges or Ki Pulse. This allows faster follow-up attacks and safer disengagement.
Grapple Attacks
When enemies are out of Ki or staggered, press △/Y near them for a powerful grapple attack that deals massive damage and has long i-frames.
For style-specific advanced techniques like Ki Pulse timing (Samurai) or Aerial Combo extensions (Ninja), see the Combat Styles Guide.