How to Defeat Genichiro Ashina in Shadow Die Twice

Defeating Genichiro Ashina in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is one of the most challenging and rewarding boss battles in the game. This fight tests your skill in parrying, dodging, and dealing with fast-paced combat. Genichiro, a formidable swordsman and archer, comes equipped with a mix of ranged and close-quarters attacks that can overwhelm even the most experienced players. However, with the right strategy, timing, and understanding of his moves, you can defeat him and progress further in the game. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps needed to overcome Genichiro, providing tips on his attacks, weaknesses, and strategies to emerge victorious.

Understanding Genichiro’s Fighting Style

To defeat Genichiro, it’s important to first understand his unique fighting style. Genichiro is known for his quick, precise strikes and his ability to switch between ranged and melee attacks seamlessly. At the beginning of the fight, he will use a katana to engage you up close, utilizing swift slashes and thrusts that require excellent timing to parry. Later, when his health gets lower, he will switch to a longbow and start using powerful ranged attacks that you’ll need to dodge or deflect. Mastering the art of deflecting is crucial for avoiding damage and building up his posture meter.

Parrying and Deflecting Genichiro’s Attacks

One of the most effective ways to deal with Genichiro is by parrying or deflecting his strikes. Genichiro’s attacks, while fast, are highly telegraphed, making them easy to predict once you get the timing down. He will often attempt to throw you off balance with a flurry of sword strikes, but each of these can be blocked with the right timing. Be sure to wait for his attacks to come close, and then press the block button just before the strike lands. Mastering this skill will help you chip away at his posture bar and set up for a devastating counterattack.

Managing Posture and Stamina

Posture management is another key element in defeating Genichiro. While you focus on parrying and dodging, you’ll also need to pay attention to your own posture. As you deflect his attacks, your posture meter will fill up, and if it gets too high, you’ll be staggered and vulnerable. On the other hand, Genichiro’s posture will also build up during the fight, especially after you successfully deflect his strikes. When his posture meter is full, it opens up an opportunity for a fatal blow, so aim to create openings where you can apply continuous pressure to his defenses.

Utilizing the Mikiri Counter

Genichiro has several powerful thrust attacks that can be countered using the Mikiri Counter. This technique allows you to deal significant damage while also avoiding his most damaging moves. To execute the Mikiri Counter, wait for him to thrust at you, then press the right button to perform the counter when you see the attack coming. If you successfully land the Mikiri Counter, it will deal substantial damage to Genichiro’s posture and help to create an opening for further attacks. Timing is everything here, so practice this move until it becomes second nature.

Dealing with Genichiro’s Ranged Attacks

As the fight progresses, Genichiro will begin using his bow to fire arrows at you from a distance. His ranged attacks are powerful and fast, but they are also predictable. You can use your dodge or the Deflect mechanic to avoid taking damage from these shots. However, if you want to gain the upper hand, it’s important to learn how to close the distance between you and Genichiro quickly. Using the Grappling Hook is essential for dodging his arrows and getting within striking range to land a few hits.

Timing and Patience for Genichiro’s Lightning Attacks

One of the most challenging aspects of the Genichiro fight is his lightning-based attack, which he uses in the second phase. As the fight enters the later stages, Genichiro will unleash a series of lightning strikes that are powerful and difficult to avoid. To counter this, you’ll need to use the Lightning Reversal technique, which allows you to absorb the lightning and send it back at him. Watch closely for the cue that indicates when to perform the reversal, as missing this timing can result in devastating damage. It takes both patience and awareness to effectively counter his lightning attacks, but mastering this technique is vital for winning the fight.

Staying Aggressive Without Overcommitting

While it’s essential to play defensively and wait for openings, you must also maintain an aggressive stance against Genichiro. When he’s in close range, don’t hesitate to attack and build up his posture meter. However, be careful not to overcommit to attacks, as this can leave you open to his deadly counters. Balancing aggression with defensive positioning is key to defeating Genichiro efficiently. Timing your attacks when his guard is down is crucial, so pay attention to his movements and strike when you sense an opening.

Healing Wisely During the Fight

While it’s important to stay aggressive, healing during the Genichiro fight is also a critical part of the strategy. You will need to manage your healing items wisely, as you have a limited number of healing gourd uses. Make sure to wait for a safe moment, such as after dodging a ranged attack or following a deflected strike, before healing. Never heal in the middle of an attack combo, as this will leave you vulnerable to counterattacks. Prioritize healing only when absolutely necessary to avoid running out of resources.

Preparing for the Final Phase of the Fight

In the final phase of the battle, Genichiro becomes even more aggressive and unpredictable, incorporating lightning attacks and powerful sword slashes. At this point, you’ll need to have perfected your parrying, dodging, and Mikiri Counter skills. Be patient and wait for your opportunity to attack, as rushing in can lead to unnecessary damage. Pay close attention to his movements, as he will start using feints and unexpected transitions between ranged and melee combat. The more you practice and learn from each attempt, the better you will become at reading his patterns and reacting accordingly.

Defeating Genichiro: A Step-by-Step Process

The key to defeating Genichiro is a combination of timing, patience, and practice. Start by deflecting his sword attacks to build up his posture meter, while using the Mikiri Counter on his thrusts. As he transitions to ranged attacks, use your Grappling Hook to close the distance and avoid his arrows. When he starts using lightning, make sure you’re prepared for the Lightning Reversal. Finally, stay calm during the second phase, taking care to avoid his deadly sword combos and watch for the right moments to heal.

7 Key Strategies for Defeating Genichiro

1. Master the art of parrying to deflect Genichiro’s attacks.
2. Use the Mikiri Counter for his thrusting moves.
3. Close the gap quickly when he uses ranged attacks.
4. Stay patient and wait for the right moments to strike.
5. Focus on building Genichiro’s posture with every successful deflect.
6. Learn the timing for the Lightning Reversal to counter his lightning attacks.
7. Heal only when it’s safe and never during an attack combo.

7 Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcommitting to attacks and leaving yourself open.
2. Healing too early or during a combo.
3. Failing to time the Mikiri Counter.
4. Ignoring the importance of posture management.
5. Using the wrong tactics during the lightning phase.
6. Getting too aggressive in the first phase and draining your posture.
7. Not learning from each attempt and adjusting your approach.

Pro Tip: Genichiro’s attacks can be daunting, but remember to stay calm and focus on learning his attack patterns. It’s not about defeating him in one go; it’s about persistence and adapting your strategy over time.

“Victory over Genichiro isn’t just about power; it’s about patience, timing, and precision.”

Defeating Genichiro Ashina is a significant achievement in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. By honing your parrying and deflecting skills, learning the timing of his attacks, and staying patient, you’ll eventually overcome this challenging boss. Take your time, practice, and remember that each attempt brings you one step closer to victory. Share this guide with fellow players and bookmark it for easy reference as you face Genichiro. Don’t forget to pass along these strategies to others on social media and keep honing your skills!