Nioh 3 Demo - 10 Things You MUST Try First!

The long-awaited Nioh 3 Demo is finally here, and it's packed with exciting content that fans of the series won't want to miss. As the latest entry in the beloved action RPG franchise, the Nioh 3 demo offers a unique opportunity to dive into the game's world and mechanics before the full release. But with so much to explore, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Don't worry! We've compiled a list of the 10 most important things to try first in the demo to get the most out of your experience.

Whether you're new to the Nioh series or a returning veteran, this demo is designed to showcase the game's incredible depth and complexity. From combat mechanics to exploration, the demo provides a taste of everything that makes Nioh 3 a standout title. Let's jump into the top 10 things you need to try first in the Nioh 3 demo.

1. Experiment with Different Combat Styles

One of the first things you should do in the Nioh 3 demo is to test out the different combat styles. Nioh 3 brings a variety of weapons and combat stances, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The key to mastering combat lies in finding the right weapon and stance that fits your playstyle. Whether you're wielding a katana, dual swords, or a spear, each weapon offers unique moves and combos that will be essential in battling Nioh's formidable enemies.

According to player feedback, experimenting with multiple stances early on will help you understand the game's flow and give you a better grasp of how to manage your stamina during fights. The Nioh 3 demo gives you plenty of time to hone these skills before facing tougher enemies in the full game.

2. Try Out the Guardian Spirits

The Guardian Spirits are back in Nioh 3, and they play a significant role in your success. These mystical entities offer unique abilities that can be used during combat. Each Guardian Spirit has its own special skills and buffs that can turn the tide of battle in your favor.

In the Nioh 3 demo, you'll want to experiment with different Guardian Spirits to see how their abilities complement your fighting style. Some provide powerful attacks, while others offer defensive bonuses or help regenerate health. Learning how to switch between these spirits quickly will be key to surviving the more intense battles.

3. Master the New Yokai Abilities

Yokai are an integral part of the Nioh series, and Nioh 3 introduces some exciting new abilities. In the demo, you'll have the chance to wield the power of Yokai transformations to gain devastating new moves. These transformations offer a boost in power, and you'll be able to unleash powerful attacks that can overwhelm enemies.

Players have reported that mastering Yokai abilities in the demo is a game-changer, especially during tough encounters with bosses. Make sure to practice using these transformations early on, as they will be crucial for surviving the harder challenges in the full game.

4. Explore the Open World

While the Nioh series has traditionally been level-based, Nioh 3 is stepping up its exploration game with a more open world design. The demo allows you to explore a portion of this vast world, and it's crucial to take your time and soak in the environment. You'll find hidden paths, secret areas, and environmental interactions that could provide valuable items and resources.

According to early player reviews, the open world in Nioh 3 feels alive and filled with life. Exploring this world is not only fun but also rewarding. Keep an eye out for side missions and collectables that could help you level up your character and improve your equipment.

5. Check Out the Co-Op Mode

If you're looking for a new way to enjoy Nioh 3, the demo also lets you test out the co-op mode. Nioh 3 brings back the online multiplayer that lets you team up with other players to take down powerful enemies. It's a great way to experience the game if you're looking for a collaborative experience rather than going solo.

The co-op mode in the Nioh 3 demo offers a unique dynamic to the game. You can strategize with friends to take on tougher enemies and bosses, making the experience even more enjoyable. However, be sure to communicate with your team, as teamwork is crucial in these intense battles.

6. Get Comfortable with the Skill Tree

As you progress in the Nioh 3 demo, you'll unlock new skills and abilities for your character. The skill tree system in Nioh 3 is robust, and there are plenty of ways to customize your playstyle. Whether you prefer to be a tank, a damage dealer, or a hybrid, the skill tree gives you the freedom to shape your character's abilities.

Make sure to invest time in understanding the skill tree early on, as it will give you a huge advantage as you face tougher enemies later in the demo. Some players recommend focusing on abilities that enhance your survivability early on, especially if you're new to the game.

7. Test the New Stamina System

Stamina management has always been a key part of Nioh, and in Nioh 3, the stamina system has received some tweaks. In the demo, you'll need to keep a close eye on your stamina bar, as running out of stamina will leave you vulnerable to attacks. This is especially important during boss fights, where timing and stamina conservation can make or break your success.

Early players suggest mastering the stamina system is crucial to becoming proficient in Nioh 3. Make sure to practice dodging, blocking, and attacking in a way that conserves your stamina for when you need it most.

8. Face the New Bosses

The Nioh 3 demo introduces several new bosses that you'll want to challenge. These bosses require careful planning and strategy to defeat, and they provide a real test of your combat skills. According to players, some of the bosses in the demo are quite difficult, so be prepared for intense battles.

Make sure to try each boss at least once to familiarize yourself with their moves and weaknesses. Using your Guardian Spirits, Yokai transformations, and skill tree abilities will be essential for taking them down. Early players have found that experimenting with different strategies is key to overcoming these formidable foes.

9. Pay Attention to the Lore and Story

While Nioh 3 is known for its deep and challenging gameplay, the series also has a rich narrative. The demo offers glimpses into the story, and it's worth paying attention to the dialogues and cutscenes. Understanding the lore will not only enrich your experience but also give you context for the world you're exploring.

As the demo focuses on setting up the story, now is the perfect time to dive into the narrative and discover what drives the characters and factions in Nioh 3. Many players report that the more they immerse themselves in the world's lore, the more invested they feel in the game's progression.

10. Optimize Your Settings for Performance

Finally, before diving into the Nioh 3 demo, make sure your game settings are optimized for performance. The demo lets you adjust various settings to ensure a smooth gaming experience. If you're playing on PS5, you can tweak your graphics settings to get the best possible frame rate and resolution.

For those on PC, be sure to check out the performance tips available on our Performance page for the best settings based on your hardware. Optimizing your setup will allow you to experience Nioh 3 in all its glory without any hiccups.