Sekiro : Shadows Die Twice – GOTY Edition (PC) – Steam Gift – EUROPE

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is a single-player action-adventure RPG developed by FromSoftware and published by Activision Blizzard. Set in 16th-century Japan during the Sengoku period, the game immerses players in a feudal land where they control Sekiro, a one-armed samurai warrior. Scheduled for release in March 2019, Sekiro promises a challenging experience with a unique combat system and stealth elements.

Gameplay

In Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, players take on the role of Sekiro, also known as the “One-armed Wolf.” Unlike previous FromSoftware games, players cannot customize Sekiro’s appearance. Instead, the focus is on mastering combat and stealth with the tools and abilities provided.

Sekiro wields two katanas, which can be switched between but not dual-wielded. His prosthetic arm, the Shinobi Prosthetic, is a versatile tool equipped with various attachments. These include:

• Grappling Hook: Enables climbing and stealth attacks from above.
• Axe: Useful for breaking enemy shields.
• Flamethrower: Ignites enemies and can set Sekiro’s katana on fire.

Players can upgrade these tools using crafting materials or skill points. Combat in Sekiro revolves around a “battle of postures” system. Instead of focusing on direct damage, players must disrupt enemies’ balance and break their guard. Once the gauge is full, a lethal strike can be delivered. Bosses require more effort to defeat, emphasizing the importance of constant offense and strategy.

Experience gained from defeating enemies and bosses is used to acquire skill points, which can be allocated across three skill trees: Shinobi, Samurai, and Prosthetic Arm.

Stealth plays a critical role in the game. Players can sneak up on enemies, use the environment for cover, and gather information. Dynamic hiding spots, such as tall grass, can be compromised by enemies. If Sekiro is spotted, the enemy’s marker turns red, signaling an imminent confrontation.

Story and Characters

Set against the backdrop of Japan’s Sengoku period, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice follows the story of Sekiro, a samurai whose master has been kidnapped by the Ashina clan. Left for dead and with a severed arm, Sekiro embarks on a quest for vengeance and honor. Armed with a katana and a versatile prosthetic arm, Sekiro seeks to rescue his master and reclaim his lost honor.

Reception

Initial reactions to Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice were highly positive, particularly following its reveal at E3 2018. Critics lauded the game for its innovative gameplay mechanics and the atmospheric recreation of Sengoku-era Japan. The game has been compared favorably to FromSoftware’s previous series, such as Dark Souls, and is celebrated for its challenging difficulty, engaging combat, and immersive setting.

Key Features:

• Innovative Combat System: Focuses on breaking enemy postures and delivering lethal strikes.
• Versatile Prosthetic Arm: Equips various tools for combat and exploration.
• Stealth and Strategy: Utilize the environment and dynamic hiding spots to outsmart enemies.
• Historical Setting: Explore a richly recreated Sengoku-era Japan.
• Challenging Difficulty: A demanding experience with a high skill ceiling.

Immerse yourself in the world of Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and experience the thrill of mastering combat and stealth in a beautifully crafted historical setting.