Question 1

What stats or skills should I upgrade first in Sekiro?

Accepted Answer

The Mikiri Counter is the absolute first skill you must unlock, as it allows you to counter thrust attacks. Following that, focus on Shinobi Eyes and Breath of Life: Light to recover vitality on deathblows. For stats, collect four Prayer Beads to upgrade Vitality/Posture and use Boss Memories to upgrade Attack Power.

Question 2

What should I do before fighting Genichiro?

Accepted Answer

Before taking on Genichiro at Ashina Castle, explore the Hirata Estate to retrieve key tools (Flame Vent, Loaded Axe), clear Ashina Reservoir for Prayer Beads, and visit Senpou Temple or the Sunken Valley to upgrade your stats and unlock handy Sculptor's Idols.

Question 3

What are the requirements for the Purification Ending?

Accepted Answer

To unlock the Purification ending, you must stay loyal to Kuro, eavesdrop on him and Emma, obtain the Father's Bell Charm from Emma, and defeat Owl (Father) in the second memory at the Hirata Estate to secure the Aromatic Flower.

Question 4

What is the absolute point of no return in Sekiro?

Accepted Answer

The point of no return is defeating the Divine Dragon at Fountainhead Palace. Doing so locks out several questlines, burns parts of Ashina Castle, and prevents you from obtaining the items required for the Purification and Return endings if you haven't done the prerequisites beforehand.

Question 5

How does Dragonrot work and how do I cure it?

Accepted Answer

Every time you die and resurrect using true death (returning to an idol), NPCs contract Dragonrot. This halts their side quests and lowers your Unseen Aid chance. Cure it at any Sculptor's Idol using a Dragon's Blood Droplet and the Recovery Charm, which Emma helps you construct.

Question 6

How do speedrunners deal so much damage in Sekiro?

Accepted Answer

Speedrunners stack high-risk damage buffs (Yashariku's Sugar + Divine Confetti) and exploit mechanical behaviors like jumping during the Empowered Mortal Draw to instantly execute a fully-charged attack.