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.
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.