Stamina powers attacks, dodges, and shield guards; SP powers Sword Skills. Defend the enemy's turn, spend only enough to punish, and reset before both bars are empty.
Keep SP for a confirmed punish
Read the attack before choosing the defense
Each weapon supports light, heavy, special, parry, and evasive actions, but not every answer is equally safe. A shield gives a forgiving guard option. A dodge preserves position only if the direction clears the hitbox. A parry demands timing but can create a stronger response through Reversal Slash and partner follow-up.
The practical combat loop
| Phase | Action | Resource check |
|---|---|---|
| Read | Watch the cue, range, and target | Do not spend yet |
| Defend | Guard, dodge, parry, or order a switch | Keep enough Stamina to escape |
| Punish | Normal chain, Sword Skill, or Reversal Slash | Spend SP only for a confirmed window |
| Reset | Reposition and let resources recover | Avoid entering the next cue empty |
Use normal attacks to support Sword Skills
Normal attacks are the economical part of the rotation. Sword Skills are the burst. Equip three skills with different purposes—an opener, a control tool, and a high-value punish—then avoid firing all three merely because they are available.
Embedded from Bandai Namco Entertainment America. The trailer demonstrates combat resources, exploration, building, partners, and bosses.
Watch on YouTube ↗Let the partner change enemy attention
Switch Mode is a defensive resource. Order the partner to take pressure before healing, charging a two-handed attack, or committing to a long Sword Skill. Free Mode is better when the field is stable and combined pressure will end the threat faster.
Handle status effects without breaking the combat loop
A status problem changes the next safe action. Stop extending the combo, create distance or use Switch Mode, then use the matching cure from the Item Pouch. For offensive status items, wait until the enemy will remain inside the stone or mine's delivery area.
- Read the live status icon and item description before using a cure.
- Keep one likely route-specific cure instead of carrying every ailment answer.
- Use the item database to search exact descriptions for Poison, Numbing, Frost and removal effects.
Boss preparation matters
- Restock Healing Crystals and carried restoratives.
- Use a partner whose support solves the fight's likely failure point.
- Equip at least one Sword Skill you can finish in a short opening.
- Check Stamina and SP support from stats, equipment, and EX-Mods.
- Enter only when ready; boss barriers prevent retreat once the encounter starts.