Ghost of Tsushima delivers a combat system that is both rewarding and challenging, requiring a mix of precision, strategy, and adaptability. While it doesn’t reach the punishing heights of games like Sekiro, the enemies of Tsushima can still pose a significant threat if you’re unprepared. To help you survive and thrive in battle, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide covering advanced combat strategies, stance management, and key upgrades. Here are eight crucial tips to dominate combat in Ghost of Tsushima.

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1. Master the Basics: Attacks, Parries, and Timing

Understanding the fundamentals is crucial for mastering combat. Quick attacks on the square button are fast but can be blocked, while heavy attacks deal stagger damage, especially when used with the correct stance. Blocks can nullify most attacks, but red X-marked strikes must be dodged. Timing your blocks just before an attack lands executes a perfect parry, opening enemies up for devastating counterattacks. Learning to balance aggression with defensive maneuvers is key to overcoming tougher opponents.

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2. Don’t Button Mash—Use Targeted Combos

Button mashing is a quick path to defeat in Ghost of Tsushima. Enemies are proficient at blocking quick attacks, and mashing leaves Jin vulnerable to counterattacks. Instead, focus on short, targeted combos of one to two hits before reassessing the battlefield. This disciplined approach not only reduces the chances of being countered but also leaves room to react to new threats.

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3. Prioritize Archers Immediately

Archers are deceptively dangerous, with some even firing poison or multiple arrows in rapid succession. Make them your first priority in any skirmish. A well-timed rush or a quick volley of arrows can eliminate them before they disrupt your focus in melee combat. When forced to deal with arrows, listen for their audio cues and either dodge or block if you’ve unlocked the appropriate skills.

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4. Know Your Stances and When to Switch

Stance management is essential for efficient combat. Each stance counters a specific enemy type:

• Stone Stance: Effective against swordsmen.
• Water Stance: Best for breaking shields.
• Wind Stance: Ideal for dealing with spearmen.
• Moon Stance: Necessary for staggering brutes.

Mapping each stance to a face button can simplify mid-combat transitions, allowing you to exploit enemy weaknesses more effectively.

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5. Use Standoffs to Thin Enemy Ranks

Standoffs are not only stylish but strategically invaluable. Winning a standoff restores resolve, which fuels healing and special abilities. To avoid being tricked by feints, focus on enemy foot movements rather than hand gestures. Feet don’t lie—they’ll move only when an attack is genuine.

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6. Slow Down Time for Tactical Decisions

The stance switch menu (R2) can temporarily slow down time, offering a brief moment to assess threats and switch to the appropriate stance. This technique is especially useful when transitioning between multiple enemy types or preparing for a high-damage move.

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7. Leverage All of Jin’s Tools

Jin’s arsenal is vast, and each tool has its purpose:

• Kunai: Breaks enemy guards and can finish off weakened foes.
• Smoke Bombs: Provide opportunities for stealth kills even in the midst of battle.
• Sticky Bombs: Effective for high-value targets or clustered enemies.
• Black Powder Bombs: Best used for groups or when retreating to reposition.

Efficient use of these tools can dramatically shift the odds in your favor.

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8. Prioritize Deflection Skills in the Technique Tree

Early in the game, invest heavily in the deflection skill tree. Unlocking abilities like arrow deflection and the ability to parry unblockable attacks significantly boosts survivability. Delay spending points on exploration skills until you’ve secured core combat upgrades.

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With these strategies in hand, you’ll find yourself cutting through Mongol forces with finesse and efficiency. Mastering combat in Ghost of Tsushima is about balancing offense, defense, and adaptability—so stay sharp, samurai.