How to Beat "Isshin, the Sword Saint" Boss Battle - Sekiro

Combat Tip

Focus on parry & Mikiri counter.

Aim to damage his posture via parry & Mikiri after learning Isshin's attack pattern.

To rack up damage on his posture, his spear attack is a great method.

To deal massive damage to his health & Posture, use your lightning Reversal on his 3rd phase.

Notable Attack (1st Phase)

Notable Attack 1: Sheathe then Iai Slash then Perilous Attack.

Once the battle starts it often uses (lai used in close range, double slash used in long range).

If his attack chains to a perilous attack, you have to jump after deflecting his first attack.

Aim to parry these attacks, if he combos to his lai or double slash.

Notable Attack 2: Back Step then Shockwave.

After stepping back, the shockwave is telegraphed by Isshin gathering his energy.

By dashing away, you can dodge this attack and use this chance to strike his backside.

Notable Attack 3: Reel Up then Perilous Thrust attack.

After reeling up and readying his attack, it unleashes a perilous thrust.

Like any other attacks, his reel up can be locked and parried.

To greatly reduce his posture, you can mikiri counter his thrust.

Notable Attack (2nd Phase)

Notable Attack 4: To evade them, time your steps.

Isshin unleashes a wide arching attack after gathering strength.

Try using mist raven or distancing yourself because this attack is difficult to block.

This Perilous attack can be comboed off a variety of different attacks.

Try to Mlkiri counter this as much as possible because this attack is a great way of damaging Isshi's posture.

Notable Attacks (3rd Phase)

Notable Attack 6: Next is Perilous Lightning.

While jumping backwards, Isshin throws a bolt of lightning.

Return the bolt to sender, jump as the lightning strikes.

To repel the thunder, spam R1 while jumping.