Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice (2019) Review

An in-depth mechanical and performance analysis of FromSoftware's masterpiece.

What is the game about?

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is an intense action-adventure game set in a reimagined late 1500s Sengoku period Japan. Players control the "one-armed wolf," a shinobi tasked with protecting the young Lord Kuro, who possesses a mysterious resurrection power called the Dragon Heritage. The core gameplay loop focuses on high-stakes, rhythm-like sword deflections rather than traditional role-playing stats, demanding absolute mechanical precision and concentration from the player.

How is the game optimization?

FromSoftware delivered a very well-optimized experience on both PC and console systems. The engine runs smoothly on PC at a locked 60 FPS under maximum settings on a wide range of hardware, with options for key display tweaks (though standard monitors are limited to 60 FPS without community mods). On base consoles, it runs at a mostly stable 30 FPS, while the PlayStation 4 Pro, PlayStation 5, Xbox One X, and Xbox Series X easily maintain a clean, responsive 60 FPS, which is critical for the game's deflection timing requirements.

What is the launch price?

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice launched with the following options:

  • Standard Edition ($59.99 USD): Includes the full base game featuring the complete narrative, all bosses, and unlockable abilities.
  • Collector's Edition ($89.99 USD): Included the full game, a 7-inch shinobi statue, a replica coin, a map of Ashina, an artbook, and the digital soundtrack.
  • Game of the Year Edition ($59.99 USD - released later): Replaced the standard edition as a free update. Includes the base game plus boss gauntlets (Reflections of Strength), player movement recording system (Remnants), and 3 unlockable outfits.

Which edition/version to buy?

We recommend purchasing the Game of the Year Edition. Since FromSoftware released all post-launch gameplay modes and cosmetics as a free update for all platforms, any copy of the base game automatically upgrades to the GOTY edition. Thus, buying the standard retail release or the digital GOTY edition offers the exact same content, making it the most value-oriented version. Avoid paying scalp prices for the Collector's Edition unless you are a die-hard physical collector.

Rating of the game

90 / 100
(Outstanding)

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice sets a gold standard for rhythm-based sword combat, scoring an exceptional 90 EGS rating.

The Good & The Bad

Pros (The Good)

  • Unrivaled, satisfying deflection-based combat mechanics.
  • Incredible vertical traversal using the Shinobi Prosthetic.
  • Rewarding, legendary boss encounters.
  • Beautiful environmental aesthetics.

Cons (The Bad)

  • Extremely high difficulty threshold that may deter casual players.
  • No official multiplayer or co-op helper options.
  • Minor camera issues in tight spaces.

Is it worth to buy the game?

Absolutely. If you enjoy high-difficulty games, rhythmic action, and high-tension boss fights, Sekiro is a must-buy. Unlike other Souls games, you cannot overlevel to bypass boss walls, making it a pure test of skill that is immensely rewarding to master.

Discount Predictor

Sekiro is published by Activision, which means discounts are relatively infrequent compared to other FromSoftware titles. However, during major digital platform sales, the game is regularly discounted by 50% off ($29.99 USD). Picking up the game at this price point is highly recommended as the amount of content and replay value is massive.

When are major sales for this game?

You can reliably find Sekiro on sale during these annual periods:

  • Steam Summer Sale (Late June / Early July)
  • FromSoftware / Activision Publisher Sales (Randomly scheduled throughout the year)
  • Black Friday & Autumn Sales (Late November)
  • Winter Holiday Sales (Late December / Early January)
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