In Nioh 3, you can choose between two main combat styles: Samurai and Ninja. Each style changes how battles play out, and leveling up their respective skill trees unlocks special moves and powers.
This guide offers recommendations for the best weapons and skills to use in Nioh 3, tailored for both Samurai and Ninja character builds.
Samurai Martial Arts
Sword/Katana
While Swords don’t have the longest reach, they make up for it with quick attacks. Managing groups of enemies can be tricky, and where you stand during a fight is often crucial for success.
- Iai Quickdraw
- Night Rain
- Swallow’s Wing
Odachi
The Odachi excels at keeping enemies at a distance and controlling groups thanks to its long reach, letting you attack while safely sweeping around them.
Because this weapon slows you down, wearing strong armor is essential to protect yourself from enemy attacks while you recover.
Learning to control Ki takes practice, and it can be challenging at first when you’re new to the weapon.
- Ground Sweeper
- Groundquake Lightning
- Sunset Breeze: Earth
Cestus
The Cestus gives Samurai incredible speed in combat, nearly matching the Ninja Talons. While fights happen at very close range, the quick strikes and seamless combos allow them to defeat enemies faster than the enemies can react.
- Rising Gale
- Limitless
- Dancing Kick
Ninja Martial Arts
Dual Ninja Swords
Two Ninja Swords are definitely better than one. Wielding them together dramatically speeds up your attacks and lets you create longer, more complex attack combinations.
When using Dual Ninja Swords, carefully managing your Ki is essential. Also, be aware that your attack range will be slightly shorter than when wielding a single Ninja Sword.
- Drifting Counter
- Water Sword
- Spinning Drill
Kusarigama
The Kusarigama is a versatile weapon effective in both close combat and for controlling groups from afar. It can be used for quick, personal attacks and to keep enemies at a distance.
Okay, so if you don’t quite nail the timing on your combo attacks against enemies, you’ll struggle a bit. But honestly, I’ve found I can still do really well by just keeping my distance, kiting them around, and slowly chipping away at their health. It’s a good strategy when you’re not hitting those perfect combos!
- Crimson Flurry
- Foot Sweep
- Whirlwind
Talons
Talons are the fastest weapon class for Ninjas, focusing on dealing lots of damage very quickly. They excel at stringing together fast attacks, and can build up various elemental effects with each hit.
Extreme close range is obviously an issue, but speed and skill can make up for it.
- Mist Slash
- Whirling Tiger
- Spinning Kicks
This guide covers the top weapons and skills for both Samurai and Ninja fighting styles in Nioh 3.
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2026-02-09 22:12