Best Weapon in Nioh 3?! Top 5 Weapons RANKED!
Looking for the best weapon in Nioh 3? Check out our ranking of the top 5 weapons and how to master them for ultimate power! Updated February 2026.
Last Updated: Sun Feb 01 2026 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
Nioh 3 is here, and with it comes the daunting challenge of choosing the right weapon for your playstyle. Whether you’re slashing through hordes of Yokai or battling fierce human opponents, the right weapon can make or break your experience. So, what is the best weapon in Nioh 3? Let’s dive into the top 5 weapons and rank them based on power, versatility, and player feedback.
Why Weapon Choice Matters in Nioh 3
Choosing the right weapon is crucial in Nioh 3 because it impacts how you approach combat. Each weapon has its own unique moveset, stats, and compatibility with different builds. Whether you're building a samurai, ninja, or magic-focused character, finding the best weapon for your specific playstyle will give you a significant edge in the game’s punishing difficulty.
Let’s look at the top 5 weapons that have stood out to players in Nioh 3 and ranked them based on their effectiveness.
1. Katana – A Perfect Balance
The Katana remains a top pick for many Nioh 3 players because of its versatility. With its ability to balance speed and power, it’s a great weapon for both beginners and veterans. The Katana offers quick strikes and a variety of powerful stances, making it ideal for fast-paced combat. It’s also incredibly useful when paired with the right skills and buffs, allowing players to adapt to different situations.
Key Features:
- Quick attacks with high speed.
- Excellent parry and deflection capabilities.
- Works well with many builds (especially Samurai builds).
- Perfect for players looking for a balance between offense and defense.
Pro Tip: Katana’s "Severing Spin" skill is particularly useful for breaking human bosses, so make sure to invest in it early.
2. Dual Katanas – Speed and Aggression
If you love fast-paced, aggressive combat, then Dual Katanas are your go-to weapon. This weapon allows for rapid attacks and an aggressive fighting style, which is ideal for taking down enemies quickly. The Dual Katanas have an impressive combo potential that keeps the pressure on your enemies, especially in the right hands.
📺 Nioh 3 - ALL WEAPONS - Samurai & Ninja Gameplay 4K仁王 3 - 所有武器 - 武士与忍者玩法 4K
Nioh 3 - ALL WEAPONS - Samurai & Ninja Gameplay 4K仁王 3 - 所有武器 - 武士与忍者玩法 4K
Key Features:
- Very fast, relentless attacks.
- Excellent combo chains for continuous damage.
- Ideal for aggressive playstyles.
- Perfect for clearing out groups of enemies.
Pro Tip: Mastering the Dual Katanas requires precise timing to maximize damage, especially during combo chains.
3. Odachi – Long Reach and Power
The Odachi is the weapon of choice for players who prefer slow, heavy-hitting attacks. This massive sword excels in dealing huge damage, especially against larger enemies. The Odachi’s wide swings and long reach allow you to control the battlefield from a distance, making it great for crowd control and taking down tough bosses.
Key Features:
- High damage output per hit.
- Wide swings perfect for crowd control.
- Long reach allows you to stay out of harm’s way.
- Great for tanking hits while dealing heavy damage.
Pro Tip: The Odachi’s "Heavenly Strike" skill can devastate enemies, especially when timed perfectly during boss fights.
4. Spear – Precision and Reach
The Spear is another weapon that stands out for its excellent range and precision. It allows you to strike enemies from a distance while maintaining mobility, making it perfect for players who like to kite enemies or engage in hit-and-run tactics. The Spear’s moveset emphasizes quick jabs and thrusts, providing both offensive and defensive options.
Key Features:
- Long range and good reach.
- Good for hit-and-run tactics.
- Offers strong defensive options, such as quick blocks and counters.
- Ideal for precise, calculated attacks.
Pro Tip: The Spear’s "Spear Dance" ability is an excellent choice for crowd control and dealing with multiple enemies at once.
5. Kusarigama – A Unique Weapon for Skillful Players
The Kusarigama is a unique weapon in Nioh 3 that combines the versatility of a chain and sickle with fast, devastating attacks. It excels in both offense and defense, making it a favorite among players who enjoy experimenting with different tactics. While it may take a bit of practice to master, the Kusarigama offers incredible mobility and can be used in a variety of situations, including crowd control and counterattacks.
Key Features:
- Fast, fluid attacks.
- Excellent for crowd control and mobility.
- Ideal for skilled players who want to experiment with a unique fighting style.
- Provides a mix of both ranged and melee attacks.
Pro Tip: The Kusarigama’s "Chain Throw" can catch enemies off guard, giving you a chance to deal significant damage when they’re not expecting it.
Which Weapon is the Best in Nioh 3?
While each of these weapons has its unique strengths, the Katana arguably stands as the best weapon for most players in Nioh 3 due to its balance of speed, power, and flexibility. It suits a variety of builds and combat styles, making it the go-to choice for players who want a weapon that’s effective in almost any situation.
However, your personal playstyle may lead you to prefer a different weapon. Whether it’s the raw power of the Odachi, the speed of Dual Katanas, or the precision of the Spear, the choice ultimately depends on how you prefer to engage with enemies.
How to Choose the Best Weapon for Your Build
To maximize the effectiveness of your weapon, consider the following tips:
- Samurai Builds: If you’re focusing on a Samurai build, the Katana or Odachi are great choices for their balance of offense and defense.
- Ninja Builds: For a Ninja build, the Dual Katanas and Kusarigama offer fast, fluid attacks that complement stealthy playstyles.
- Magic Builds: While any weapon can work with a magic build, the Spear tends to pair well due to its range and defensive abilities.
Don't forget that weapon choice can also be influenced by your guardian spirit and how you allocate your stats, so experiment to find the perfect combination that suits your style.