Nioh 3: Guide to the Best Starting Builds and Tips for Surviving Yokai

Nioh 3, developed by Team Ninja, preserves the identity of the series by combining demanding combat, precise resource management, and extensive gameplay customization. During the early hours, encounters with Yokai represent one of the main challenges, especially for players who have not yet mastered systems such as Ki control, stance usage, or weapon-related skills.

This guide brings together key information on the most effective weapon builds in the early stages and a set of practical tips to increase survival chances, without assuming advanced prior knowledge of the game.

Combat fundamentals in Nioh 3

Before diving into specific builds, it is essential to understand some core mechanics that directly affect combat performance from the very beginning.

Ki management is one of the pillars of the system. Every attack, dodge, or block consumes this resource, and running out of Ki leaves the character vulnerable. Ki Pulse, when executed correctly after a combo, allows players to recover part of the consumed Ki and either maintain offensive pressure or prepare to defend.

In addition, the stance system defines how each weapon behaves. Low stance prioritizes speed and low Ki consumption. Mid stance offers a balance between offense and defense, while high stance maximizes damage at the cost of higher Ki usage. Switching stances according to the enemy type and situation is essential for steady progression.

Guardian Spirits provide special abilities and passive bonuses that directly influence combat, proving particularly useful against groups of Yokai or enemies with aggressive patterns.

Recommended weapon builds for the early game

Samurai Build with Odachi (Purity Odachi)

The Odachi is one of the most effective weapons in the early stages of the game thanks to its range and ability to control space. This build relies on Purity-type damage, which is especially effective against Yokai by weakening their abilities and reducing their resistance.

For this setup, it is recommended to prioritize stats such as Strength, Courage, Stamina, and Constitution, allowing the character to withstand more damage and perform powerful attacks without depleting Ki too quickly.

Using the Odachi in high stance enables heavy-hitting attacks, although it requires careful Ki management. Alternating with more conservative stances and executing Ki Pulse after each sequence is essential. As support, a secondary sword adds flexibility in combat.

Ninja Build with Kusarigama

The Kusarigama is aimed at players who prefer an agile and aggressive playstyle. Its reach and speed allow for constant pressure on enemies, particularly in one-on-one encounters.

This setup benefits greatly from higher-rarity weapons, as additional effects significantly improve performance. Increasing weapon familiarity enhances base stats and maximizes overall efficiency.

Success with this build depends on constant mobility, positioning, and the ability to punish mistakes in Yokai attack animations.

Samurai Sword Build

The sword provides a balanced and accessible experience, making it ideal for learning the core mechanics of Nioh 3. Its versatility allows players to adapt easily to different enemy types.

Mastering stances is essential. Low stance favors evasion and control, while high stance allows for punishing, high-damage combos. Skills such as Flux, which improves Ki recovery when switching stances, and deflect or parry techniques, increase survivability in demanding encounters.

Tips to survive the first Yokai encounters

During the early hours, the game encourages constant experimentation. Trying different weapons and playstyles helps identify more efficient setups depending on the enemy type.

Inventory management is also critical. Equipping stronger weapons facilitates progression, while those with high familiarity can be used strategically at shrines.

Regarding skills, prioritizing those related to Ki recovery, defense, and responses to special attacks reduces costly mistakes. These choices are particularly important when facing mini-bosses and Yokai with unpredictable patterns.

Once the respec system is unlocked, it becomes possible to reallocate stats and skills without severe penalties, allowing players to optimize builds based on experience gained.