Nioh 3 Odachi Guide大太刀
A large sword with fast sweeping strikes. Known for its signature skill "Moonlit Snow" (雪月花). High Ki consumption but devastating damage.
Overview
The Odachi is an S-tier Samurai weapon in Nioh 3 that combines the sweeping range of a polearm with devastating damage output. Despite being classified as a greatsword, it attacks surprisingly fast for its size, making it one of the most efficient damage-dealing weapons in the game. This blade scales primarily with Stamina, which also governs your equipment weight capacity — meaning users can wear heavier armor while still dealing maximum damage. Its signature skill, Moonlit Snow (雪月花), is a three-hit combo that deals some of the highest burst damage in Nioh 3. Each swing covers a wide arc, making it excellent for crowd control as well as single-target boss damage. The Odachi rewards players who master Ki Pulse timing, as its high Ki consumption demands efficient stamina management.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- • Devastating damage per swing — the Odachi hits harder than most weapons
- • Wide sweeping arcs hit multiple enemies simultaneously
- • Moonlit Snow (雪月花) provides some of the highest burst damage in Nioh 3
- • Stamina scaling lets Odachi users wear heavy armor without sacrificing damage
Weaknesses
- • High Ki consumption — Odachi combos drain stamina rapidly without Ki Pulse
- • Slower recovery frames leave Odachi users open after missed attacks
- • Odachi requires good spacing awareness to maximize its sweep range
- • Less effective in very tight spaces where the Odachi blade may clip walls
Key Characteristics
- •Wide sweeping attacks that hit multiple enemies
- •Highest raw damage among fast Samurai weapons
- •Signature skill: Moonlit Snow (雪月花) with 3 devastating slashes
- •High Ki consumption requiring careful Ki Pulse management
Moveset Guide
Moonlit Snow (雪月花) is the Odachi's most iconic skill — this three-slash combo deals enormous damage and should be saved for guaranteed openings on staggered bosses
Crashing Waves (波切り) is a charging attack that closes distance and deals heavy damage — perfect for punishing retreating enemies
Mid Stance combo (square-square-triangle) is your bread-and-butter — efficient damage with moderate Ki cost, ideal for sustained pressure
The High Stance heavy attack has built-in hyper armor — use it to trade hits with smaller enemies when you know the hit will stagger them first
Swallow's Wing (飛燕) launches enemies into the air — follow up with aerial attacks for extra damage before they hit the ground
Stance Guide
High Stance (上段)
High Stance Odachi delivers maximum damage with wide sweeps. Every heavy attack in this stance has hyper armor, letting you power through enemy attacks. Use it for punishing windows on stunned bosses.
Mid Stance (中段)
Mid Stance is the safest and most efficient option for this greatsword. Its balanced speed and good guard make it the default choice. Moonlit Snow is best executed from Mid Stance.
Low Stance (下段)
Low Stance Odachi is surprisingly fast and offers good evasion. The quick slashes in Low Stance apply elements rapidly. Switch to this stance when bosses become aggressive.
Best Odachi Builds in Nioh 3
A straightforward build focusing on Purity damage and the odachi's devastating heavy attacks. Great for players who prefer a slower, methodical combat style.
A heavy-hitting odachi build that stacks Strength and Stamina for maximum damage per swing and heavy armor toughness. Ideal for players who want to trade blows without dodging every attack.