How difficult are the duels and boss fights in Ghost of Yotei?
They’re challenging but fair. The game scales enemy AI smartly—you’ll need to read attack patterns and counter effectively. Boss fights often have multiple phases with environmental hazards like snowstorms or avalanches adding layers of difficulty.
I play on Hard mode and some of the late-game duels are absolutely brutal, but in the best way possible. They feel like a true test of everything you've learned. The attack patterns are less predictable, and the window for a perfect parry or dodge is incredibly tight. What I love is that they're rarely just about raw reflexes; they're about understanding the rhythm of the fight. The duel against the "Blade of Yotei" had me stuck for a solid two hours, but the feeling of finally winning was incredible. Don't be ashamed to drop the difficulty for a specific duel if you're getting frustrated—the story is worth seeing!
Personally, I found the duels intense. Parrying and timing attacks is key, and some bosses require creative use of gadgets and stealth. Not impossible, but definitely rewarding if you enjoy tactical combat.
The duels are, in my opinion, even more challenging and nuanced than in Tsushima. They've added a new layer of complexity with "Spiritual Stances." Bosses aren't just vulnerable to a specific sword stance; they shift between different spiritual auras (e.g., a fiery aura, a watery aura) during the fight. You need to use the correct type of special attack or charm ability to "break" their aura, which opens them up for a brief period of direct damage. It turns each duel into a dynamic puzzle where you're constantly reading the boss's visual cues and adapting your strategy on the fly, not just waiting to parry.
They are difficult but fair. The game does a great job of teaching you the mechanics in the lead-up to these fights. If you've been paying attention to the combat tutorials and mastering the new systems, you'll be prepared. The key is patience and observation. Rushing in will get you killed instantly. Every boss has a "tell" for their unblockable attacks, and learning to spot them is half the battle.