Nioh 3 presents an intriguing range of weaponry, but it opens with a more controlled selection. Team Ninja intentionally restricts access to certain weapons during the early game phases. This design choice is crucial for ensuring a smoother learning curve and facilitating effective gameplay as you switch between two distinct character types: Samurai and Ninja. Each of these classes wields unique weapon sets, which could initially feel overwhelming for newcomers.
In this guide, we aim to clarify what you can expect from your weapon choices and help you make more informed decisions.
If you are familiar with the prior Nioh titles, you will likely recognize several weapons that return in this latest installment. With each sequel and DLC, new weapons have been introduced, and players can enjoy a broad selection in Nioh 3.
The weapons are classified into two primary categories: Samurai and Ninja. While some weapons are exclusive to one class, others have counterparts that function similarly, though their statistical advantages and skill trees are tailored to their respective styles.
Before diving into specifics, here are a few essential considerations:
- Weapon Stat Scaling: Every weapon interacts with core stats differently, including Constitution, Heart, Stamina, Strength, Skill, Intellect, and Magic. When allocating points during level-ups, the game highlights which weapons are influenced by your chosen stat under the Affected Weapon Types section, indicated by a yellow highlight.
- Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Stats: Each weapon type aligns with three core stats. The primary stat will have the most significant impact on your weapon’s effectiveness, followed by the secondary, which holds moderate importance. The tertiary stat usually has minimal influence. It’s wise to concentrate on the primary stat, giving the secondary at most a passing consideration. A quick test can determine any stat’s effectiveness by investing a point without long-term commitment.
- Flexibility in Weapon Choices: Your weapon options are not fixed at the outset. You can seamlessly switch to different weapon types at any time. As you progress, loot will drop various weaponry, meaning you won’t find yourself locked out of important choices.
Weapon Scaling Resources
- Samurai Weapon Scaling Guide
- Ninja Weapon Scaling Guide
- Optimal Samurai Starting Weapon
- Optimal Ninja Starting Weapon
- Best Samurai Secondary Weapon
- Best Ninja Secondary Weapon
Samurai Weapon Scaling Guide
| WEAPON | PRIMARY STAT | SECONDARY STAT | TERTIARY STAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sword | Heart | Strength | Intellect |
| Dual Swords | Heart | Strength | Magic |
| Spear | Constitution | Heart | Skill |
| Axe | Constitution | Stamina | Strength |
| Odachi | Stamina | Strength | Magic |
| Switchglaive | Skill | Intellect | Magic |
| Chests | Heart | Stamina | Strength |
Ninja Weapon Scaling Guide
| WEAPON | PRIMARY STAT | SECONDARY STAT | TERTIARY STAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja Sword | Strength | Skill | Intellect |
| Dual Ninja Swords | Heart | Intellect | Magic |
| Kusarigama | Constitution | Skill | Magic |
| Spit | Constitution | Strength | Skill |
| Hatchets | Stamina | Skill | Intellect |
| Splitstaves | Strength | Intellect | Magic |
| Talons | Heart | Stamina | Intellect |
Best Samurai Starting Weapon
As you begin your journey in Nioh 3, one of your earliest decisions will be selecting a Samurai weapon. We recommend choosing the Sword (Katana) as your primary weapon. Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for new players seeking to master combat mechanics.
While it has a shorter reach than other available options, it compensates with quick strikes that require less stamina. Furthermore, some skills acquired later will enable you to incapacitate enemies effectively, provided you manage your stamina (Ki) wisely.
When compared to the Spear and Axe, the Sword deals more damage despite a slower attack speed, allowing for effective multitarget attacks.
The Odachi is best suited for more experienced players due to its slower attack speed, requiring you to be conscious of your combat timing to avoid being overwhelmed by quicker enemies.
Best Ninja Starting Weapon
After selecting your Samurai’s first weapon, it will be time to choose a corresponding Ninja weapon. Given the Ninja’s emphasis on agility and speed, your selection should enhance these traits.
A standout option is the Kusarigama, which, once mastered, offers incredible maneuverability and combat versatility. You will unlock potent skills that allow you to leap off enemies, use grappling hooks, and execute air combos that add thrilling elements to your gameplay.
Additionally, the Dual Swords present a solid choice, known for their speed and devastating combo potential. While initial unlocks require patience, they ultimately provide enjoyable combat when paired with Ninja abilities.
Later in the game, players will be able to equip a second weapon for each character style. This feature allows you to carry up to four weapons: two for Samurai and two for Ninja.
Your second weapon choice carries more significance in Nioh 3 than in previous versions. Instead of merely selecting a backup based on stats, the game encourages you to engage with both weapons actively.
Best Samurai Secondary Weapon
As you progress, Samurai players will access additional weapons, including Axes, Switchglaives, and Cestuses. Your secondary weapon should ideally complement your primary choice, filling gameplay gaps depending on your starting weapon.
We recommend the Switchglaive as an excellent secondary option. Many later weapons are designed to scale with different core stats than your primary selection, giving you the flexibility to explore them for their gameplay functionalities.
The Switchglaive excels in versatility, offering close-range and long-range capabilities. Its ability to link attacks across both forms allows for significant damage with moderate stamina costs, establishing it as a powerful choice once its intricacies are learned.
Best Ninja Secondary Weapon
Ninja players also gain access to additional choices, namely Tonfas, Talons, and Splitstaves. Here, we aim for an option that enhances damage output while retaining versatility. Therefore, we recommend the Tonfas as your secondary weapon.
The Tonfas deliver impressive damage, and while they operate slower than the Kusarigama, they shine with their effectiveness against enemies. Their attack arc allows for significant damage amplification against weak points, effectively staggering foes and disrupting their abilities.
Moreover, the Tonfas can transform into ranged options, offering a unique blend of melee and projectile attacks that will surprise your enemies within combat sequences.
For further insights into Team Ninja’s latest offerings, check our comprehensive list of essential Nioh 3 gameplay tips alongside recommended settings for a better gameplay experience.
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