Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

 PlayStation 4
User Score
8.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 5159 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4,327 out of 5159
  2. Mixed: 286 out of 5159
  3. Negative: 546 out of 5159
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  1. davidh219
    Apr 1, 2019
    10
    Stands alongside Dark Souls 1 and Bloodborne as the best Fromsoftware is capable of and one of the best games of the modern era. No other studio working today is as effortlessly confident and successful at making new IPs, and as much as I enjoyed Dark Souls 3 and, yes, even Dark Souls 2, I think I'm not alone in hoping that their next game will be another fresh IP because they haveStands alongside Dark Souls 1 and Bloodborne as the best Fromsoftware is capable of and one of the best games of the modern era. No other studio working today is as effortlessly confident and successful at making new IPs, and as much as I enjoyed Dark Souls 3 and, yes, even Dark Souls 2, I think I'm not alone in hoping that their next game will be another fresh IP because they have demonstrated three times in a row that they are not only incapable of failing at it, but that it's when they do their most profound and impressive work.… Expand
  2. doodlerman
    Apr 20, 2019
    10
    When I first played Dark Souls, it took me a while to figure it out - to 'git gud,' if you will. I was immediately enamored by its atmosphere and by the cathartic joy of overcoming its brutal yet fair (mostly) difficulty. Playing Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is much like how I felt playing Dark Souls for the first time. This isn't something I can say for the sequels, Bloodborne, Demon's SoulsWhen I first played Dark Souls, it took me a while to figure it out - to 'git gud,' if you will. I was immediately enamored by its atmosphere and by the cathartic joy of overcoming its brutal yet fair (mostly) difficulty. Playing Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is much like how I felt playing Dark Souls for the first time. This isn't something I can say for the sequels, Bloodborne, Demon's Souls (which I played after Dark Souls), or any other 'Soulslike' game out there. All of those games play, in some way or another, like how Dark Souls plays. Sekiro, with a few exceptions, does not play like a 'Soulslike.' While this was somewhat daunting, it was just as rewarding as it was to discover how to survive in Dark Souls when I played it for the first time about 8 years ago.

    Even with the incorporation of super direct tutorial prompts, getting into the rhythm and maneuverability of Sekiro's control scheme is a challenge in it's own right - especially if you're accustomed to the Soulsborne games. Also, if you're like me, you sort of glaze over wordy instructions and just go with the gist of it. I probably missed some key details that I later learned on my own through trial and error, but, even so, this process was very rewarding. Having certain mechanics click in my head, developing strategies on how to approach enemies or bosses, making split second decisions that could mean life or death -- incredible.

    I like the skill tree system they have - it's pretty concise and to the point. Kills give you experience points that increase a blue bar in the upper right of the HUD. Each time that blue bar is filled, you get a Skill Point which can be applied to any number of skills - including special attacks, counters, abilities, and item effectiveness/quantity. Getting every skill takes a long time - as some skills cost multiple Skill Points and - as you progress the trees - Skill Points cost more experience to earn. Deviating from From Soft's Soulsborne titles, dying only takes away half of your experience currently in the Skill Point bar (but you don't lose Skill Points themselves).

    Dying also makes you lose half your sen, which is the game's currency. I was iffy with the idea of having both experience and currency separate (since in the Soulsborne franchise Souls/Blood Echoes were both experience and currency) but they do a good job balancing it out.

    My first playthrough was incredible. Subsequent playthroughs, while still a blast, suffer in a similar light to how most of From Soft’s games do - in that you sort of just rush past a good deal of the world to get to checkpoints or bosses. Having played through Sekiro a few times, I can confidently say it’s the shortest From Software game I’ve played. This could be due to the huge amount of freedom you have in controlling your character; there’s no stamina bar, so you can dash, dodge, attack, jump, and grapple everywhere to your heart’s content. There are also significant skips that are really easy to pull off, but even without those it’s a game that a moderately skilled player could beat in about an hour. In its own way, this is still a good deal of fun, but I’m a From addict and I want more.

    I can’t wait for DLC… God, I hope there’s DLC.

    Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is damn near perfect, and even with what flaws there are, its greatness is so damn great, it supersedes the bad.    … Expand
  3. Stuvok
    Mar 24, 2019
    10
    Instant game of the year contender. From Software's Sekiro shows why it was going to be a Tenchu game. It's lineage is undeniable but this is the most hardcore Tenchu game you've ever played. It's without a doubt easier and harder than their previous souls series. The general enemies are easier then they have ever been because you can stealth kill everybody in the level if you soInstant game of the year contender. From Software's Sekiro shows why it was going to be a Tenchu game. It's lineage is undeniable but this is the most hardcore Tenchu game you've ever played. It's without a doubt easier and harder than their previous souls series. The general enemies are easier then they have ever been because you can stealth kill everybody in the level if you so choose. But then the mini bosses and actual bosses come along...

    They aren't the most difficult bosses but they are very challenging and there are very few options to power up and brute force your way through a boss. You can farm xp and money to buy new skills and other things but you can't raise your base stats. If you aren't sure of yourself or willing to improve you could hit a brick wall after a few hours and give up.

    If you can make it past the first mini boss and main boss then you are set. When going through the game the path you are on may not be the lowest level/easiest way and there is no way to tell so if you get stuck just try a different path in the world. This will help you gradually improve your character as you find beads in chests, from vendors, or from any mini bosses you manage to kill.
    These gives you extra HP and stamina to block with. If you manage to kill any main boss you get a permanent damage boost. You may also stumble across the more than a dozen weapons you can equip on your shinobi arm. Find one that really makes you more comfortable when you play is a huge benefit.

    Combat is very responsive and nearly all the problems like phantom hits, delayed actions after button presses, and unresponsive controls from the souls series have been fixed. On my 1080ti at 4k I get a solid 60fps on a mixture of High and Highest settings so the game runs well also much better than previous From games.

    Try not to get too angry when you sit back and enjoy ancient castles, bamboo forests, acid swamps, mountain side temples, forsaken villages, and more in this gorgeous modern Tenchu game. #gameoftheyear maybe    … Expand
  4. Sinloth
    Oct 21, 2019
    10
    I finally beat Sekiro, and I loved it.
    It took me a while, Sekiro is definitely a different kind of beast than its predecessors, but I must admit I had so much fun in failing over and over and over again, honing my skills, improving little by little... In the end, when I beat Demon of Hatred and Isshin, I felt like a god with katana.
    From Software is one of the best game developers of    I finally beat Sekiro, and I loved it.
    It took me a while, Sekiro is definitely a different kind of beast than its predecessors, but I must admit I had so much fun in failing over and over and over again, honing my skills, improving little by little... In the end, when I beat Demon of Hatred and Isshin, I felt like a god with katana.

    From Software is one of the best game developers of this time, hands down. The craftsmanship is apparent at every corner, the game looks great, moves great, animations are seriously state of the art. Mechanically the game takes a bit from the Souls series, but not quite as much as Bloodborne did, it's a breath of fresh air and I cannot wait for their next title, Elden Ring at this point.

    At times ridiculously punishing and difficult, but ultimately satisfying experience. Now that I have finished it once, I already plan to run an NG+ run with all my hard earned perks and I sincerely believe it will not be my last playthrough of the game. Personally I think Sekiro is the second best game released in 2019 (for me it actually comes very close after Resident Evil 2 Remake) and one of the best games we've seen in a while.    … Expand
  5. tibzoid
    Mar 28, 2019
    10
    STICK WITH IT. It's not a Souls game but it is made with the same level of dedication. It's only "hard" because you have to educate yourself and learn how to play it. That takes time. Whatever you do, don't give up on it. I broke through the frustration wall and now I'm absolutely loving it. The game mechanics seem confusing at first but you get muscle memory after a while and then itSTICK WITH IT. It's not a Souls game but it is made with the same level of dedication. It's only "hard" because you have to educate yourself and learn how to play it. That takes time. Whatever you do, don't give up on it. I broke through the frustration wall and now I'm absolutely loving it. The game mechanics seem confusing at first but you get muscle memory after a while and then it turns into a total blast. Again, keep going!… Expand
  6. TheAtheist
    Mar 27, 2019
    10
    From Software has outdone themselves and created the best melee combat system ever. The responsiveness, flow and spectacle of the combat is something to behold and a joy to master. No game has made me feel the exaltation that overcoming bosses does in this game.
  7. GenXY
    Mar 24, 2019
    10
    This game is fantastic, taking the genre up a notch! If you do not like difficult single player games, do NOT play this. And please do NOT give it a rating, wouldn't be very fair to this gem. This game is absolutely kicking my butt right now, but I'm loving ever second of it. It's like Ninja Gaiden/Shinobi and the Soulsborne series studied real sword fighting and then had a baby and taughtThis game is fantastic, taking the genre up a notch! If you do not like difficult single player games, do NOT play this. And please do NOT give it a rating, wouldn't be very fair to this gem. This game is absolutely kicking my butt right now, but I'm loving ever second of it. It's like Ninja Gaiden/Shinobi and the Soulsborne series studied real sword fighting and then had a baby and taught it everything! Great and rewarding experience. This will test your gaming mettle, so be prepared and know what you are in for!… Expand
  8. nostormo
    Apr 12, 2019
    10
    I have never been a hardcore gamer wanted to play on the hardest difficulty and do all what game have to offer. Played 4/5 Bloodborne, Finished Dark Souls 1 & 2 with a little grinding and work. Sekiro has changed my mind. Satisfaction, when I defeat a boss or hard sub-boss in Sekiro, is gratifying. Gives me a feeling of achievement and satisfaction. Even the mobs or when methodically II have never been a hardcore gamer wanted to play on the hardest difficulty and do all what game have to offer. Played 4/5 Bloodborne, Finished Dark Souls 1 & 2 with a little grinding and work. Sekiro has changed my mind. Satisfaction, when I defeat a boss or hard sub-boss in Sekiro, is gratifying. Gives me a feeling of achievement and satisfaction. Even the mobs or when methodically I pick and deathblow enemies one by one. Do not watch videos just play the game. The game is surprising, enemies inventive and requires thinking and strategy. If you can't beat some boss or enemy...try harder there is always the way and you got means to do that. Sekiro is all about skill, practice and finding the right way to do it. Gameplay is almost perfect and satisfying, the world is fantastic, graphics are excellent and perfectly accompanies atmosphere and tone of the game. The sound is brilliant and you can even relly to time deflect or attack on sound alone. As a seasoned player with playing games on a daily basis from 1986 (i know I am 47 old gamer and hope it will continue to be :) ) Sekiro has brought me to another level and made me the person that wants to hone skills until I am a Master of Sekiro. Hands down FromSoft - Sekiro for me is masterpiece!… Expand
  9. DrChocolate
    Mar 23, 2019
    10
    For an old school Tenchu fan like me, this is the game I was waiting for.
    For veteran SoulsBorn fans, it might take time to learn the new combat system, but once you master it, you will feel like a god.
    You can pause, you can swim, you can jump, and while you have more freedom of exploration and movement than ever, the combat's steep learning curve can really punish you early in the    For an old school Tenchu fan like me, this is the game I was waiting for.
    For veteran SoulsBorn fans, it might take time to learn the new combat system, but once you master it, you will feel like a god.
    You can pause, you can swim, you can jump, and while you have more freedom of exploration and movement than ever, the combat's steep learning curve can really punish you early in the game.- The progression is cruel, but fair and extremely satisfying. It is admittedly a hard game, but if you stick with it, you will love it.    … Expand
  10. pablobosa
    May 13, 2019
    10
    Just play this game, its THAT good. Ignore the haters and easymode askers. Game is a great challenge and completely beatable.
  11. FredrikM
    Apr 3, 2019
    10
    Brilliant game, nothing shorter than of what you come to expect of a From Software title these days. The biggest criticism I find of this game from players is when they compare it with the dark souls games, or bloodborne for that matter. Thing is, this is not a bloodborne nor a dark souls, and the game is very well aware of what it is and what it's not. It is a game made by the sameBrilliant game, nothing shorter than of what you come to expect of a From Software title these days. The biggest criticism I find of this game from players is when they compare it with the dark souls games, or bloodborne for that matter. Thing is, this is not a bloodborne nor a dark souls, and the game is very well aware of what it is and what it's not. It is a game made by the same studio, applying many of the soulsborne mechanics but also introducing new ones. A lot of criticism is about the game only providing you with one way of playing it, which is partially true and partially not. Compared to dark souls it is definitely true, but that is not really a big flaw, most games does that. People who went into this game expecting a new dark souls-experience might be disappointed, but you must learn that if you want to jump into something to get your expectations met, buy the latest assassins creed or some other AAA mainstream title. If you want something fresh, innovative and exciting buy Sekiro, Jumping into this game with an open mind, and big scoop of determination you will likely have one of the best gaming experiences for years. Sekiro is one of those rare games that will consume you even when you're not playing it. You will find yourself contemplating on what path you should be investigating, what technique to use on the boss you're stuck at, what things you might have missed in your play through so far, and what secrets lying in store.… Expand
  12. SLURM187
    Mar 27, 2019
    10
    Different enough from From Software's last few releases to feel fresh, but similar enough to keep us crawling back for more. I don't want to spoil any game mechanics or progression like some of the other reviewers, but don't go into this expecting the exact same Dark Souls formula. It is very much a different game as far as progression is concerned. This game is focused primarily on combatDifferent enough from From Software's last few releases to feel fresh, but similar enough to keep us crawling back for more. I don't want to spoil any game mechanics or progression like some of the other reviewers, but don't go into this expecting the exact same Dark Souls formula. It is very much a different game as far as progression is concerned. This game is focused primarily on combat and exploration. You don't have to worry about finding sets of armor, new weapons, etc. You do however need to practice your combat skills until you feel comfortable navigating this treacherous world filled with supernatural creatures inspired by Japanese myths and lore. One aspect that I like is the removal of any online features. I always felt like summoning was a crutch for players that were too lazy to study each boss and figure out a proper strategy in order to defeat them. Bottom line, it is a great game.… Expand
  13. Primbleshanks
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    Punishing, gorgeous, and profound. Miyazaki and team managed to create another unique non-Souls masterpiece to stand alongside Bloodborne. I played this game four times through and yearn to jump right back in.
  14. Danthereddevil
    Mar 25, 2019
    10
    so far amazing, about 8 hours in, a mixture of different games in one, but holds a unique feel and is hard but rewarding just like others from software games. graphics are breathtaking but the gameplay is where its at , a learning curve required but if you go in thinking its not souls youll be fine.
    Amazing
  15. coldasStone
    May 13, 2019
    10
    FromSoft you did it again im so glad to about this HARD game.
    it has more advanced battle system than Darksouls series.
    most slow physical users will telling dissatisfaction coz of this Great game is So Hard.
    If YOU go to get through it SEKIRO is Best of Best game
  16. cnix
    Mar 24, 2019
    10
    absolute frikin masterpiece what a game wow. mechanics are solid and the atmosphere is unlike any game i've played in a long time.
  17. chr1so
    Mar 22, 2020
    10
    Up there with my fav games of all time. Like all soulsborne games it's just epic and the combat is spot on. Challenging but fair. Cannot recommend it enough
  18. cornbread
    Mar 25, 2019
    10
    My first impression of this game was a bit "meh." I'm a soulsborne vet and I love things about those games that were clearly not a part of Sekiro (obscure story, collecting armor, lack of explanation about anything, creepy vibe).

    However, after giving it five hours, I am convinced this game is yet another masterpiece of From's. Is it my favorite of theirs? No, it's going to take a lot    My first impression of this game was a bit "meh." I'm a soulsborne vet and I love things about those games that were clearly not a part of Sekiro (obscure story, collecting armor, lack of explanation about anything, creepy vibe).

    However, after giving it five hours, I am convinced this game is yet another masterpiece of From's. Is it my favorite of theirs? No, it's going to take a lot to beat BB and DS, but it belongs and I know I'll be playing this one through many times.

    If you're on the fence, take it from me and from other reviewers: you need to give it several hours before it "clicks." Get past some of the mini bosses, and the first main boss Gyoubu. Look up tips on how to beat him if necessary because it'll inform how to beat other bosses.

    I'm an explorer and love finding secrets. Trust me, there are tons of those as you progress and you're rewarded for going off the beaten path.

    Enjoy, use the wiki/youtube if you need, and give it a solid chance before giving up!    … Expand
  19. Mikez14
    Dec 14, 2019
    10
    GAME OF THE YEAR 2019!

    Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice shocked a lot of people by winning this years game of the year award, and it’s honestly well deserved. The game is extremely difficult with a steep learning curve. Many people and casual journalists will say this game is bad because of how hard it is. Many will be unable to complete this game due to its difficulty. However, if you have    GAME OF THE YEAR 2019!

    Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice shocked a lot of people by winning this years game of the year award, and it’s honestly well deserved.

    The game is extremely difficult with a steep learning curve. Many people and casual journalists will say this game is bad because of how hard it is. Many will be unable to complete this game due to its difficulty. However, if you have the time and patience to master the phenomenal combat of this game, you’ll discover just how rewarding and satisfying this game is. Don’t give a game a negative score just because you’re not good at it. It’s a beautiful game, one of the best I’ve ever played and I can’t wait for a sequel.    … Expand
  20. Potnoodle999
    Mar 23, 2019
    10
    Just like bloodborne, this game is another From Software masterpiece! I wish all games could be this polished and be created with this level of passion!
  21. raiseralex21
    Mar 26, 2019
    10
    Con bastantes variantes a las sagas SOULS... que te hacen sentir una nueva aventura de calidad y muy entetenida, llena de retas y peleas emocionantes.

    COMPRENLO!!!... es buenisimo :3., y si buscan verdaderos retos.... ya comprenlo! jajaja
  22. blaow
    Apr 17, 2019
    10
    This game is just as difficult as the dark souls games but it doesn't have the crutches. There are no cheap or OP weapons because the game has been balanced around only one. There is no summoning, so YOU have to be good enough to beat the bosses, not someone else. Leveling is dependent on game advancement, so there is no farming to over level and make the game easier.

    This game takes    This game is just as difficult as the dark souls games but it doesn't have the crutches. There are no cheap or OP weapons because the game has been balanced around only one. There is no summoning, so YOU have to be good enough to beat the bosses, not someone else. Leveling is dependent on game advancement, so there is no farming to over level and make the game easier.

    This game takes my favorite thing from DS - difficult bosses/gameplay to conquer giving huge accomplishment - and gets rid of all the extras. Instead of swapping in gear to help against fire like in Dark Souls, I'm spending all of my time thinking of new, improved, or perfected strategies. In DS the boss strategy often came down to just hanging back, learning attack patterns, now dodge and pick away. In Sekiro sometimes you have to be on the defensive, sometimes you have to be full offense, and everything in between. Super satisfying and HARD.
    9 for now, I expect a 10 when I'm done.

    Update: Instant classic, easy 10. The game is even harder than I thought it was halfway through. Even after beating everything else the final boss feels like an insane difficulty spike. This game is not for everyone, but if you're up to the challenge I can't recommend it enough.    … Expand
  23. DariusGQ
    Mar 23, 2019
    10
    Just awesome.
    I love Souls series. But this is something else.
    When Dark SOuls meets Tenchu & Ninja Gaiden.
    Incredible level design.

    No more words. Just play this game.
  24. Ryhelia
    Apr 9, 2019
    10
    Another home run from From Software. Some of these negative reviews are absurd. One person complained that there are no "wall stealth kills" and rated the game a 0. There ARE wall stealth kills. You have to hug the wall and wait for the exact moment the red dot flashes.
  25. Allthat
    Mar 23, 2019
    10
    FromSoftware have grown into one of those studios whose game releases are big events. And I'm really glad as they are one of the few companies out there devoted to strong singleplayer games and the Soulsbourne games are one of the reasons I got into gaming.

    That being said, Sekiro is a masterpiece. Its a natural evolution on the soulsbourne games and is different in all the right ways.    FromSoftware have grown into one of those studios whose game releases are big events. And I'm really glad as they are one of the few companies out there devoted to strong singleplayer games and the Soulsbourne games are one of the reasons I got into gaming.

    That being said, Sekiro is a masterpiece. Its a natural evolution on the soulsbourne games and is different in all the right ways. I bestow my highest praises on FromSoftware, they are true masters of the art of making videogames, and while I play Sekiro, I eagerly await their next game no matter how long it takes.    … Expand
  26. Markolius
    Aug 8, 2020
    10
    The most intuitive gameplay ever created. Once you learn the mechanics, it has the most natural and visceral flow. The art and aesthetics are beautiful in HDR. The samurai aesthetic is just icing on the cake. I am so glad to see FromSoftware continue to push the envelope with such engaging and innovative design. Bravo.
  27. Moth3rlov3r
    Mar 26, 2019
    10
    Sekiro is a great addition to Bloodborne and the Souls series. Mastering the combat and stealth system is fun. Thanks to FromSoftware for this wonderful masterpiece, Sekiro is awesome!
  28. Goalzzz
    May 1, 2019
    10
    One of the best games I have ever played. I finished it last week through all endings and I am on my way to platinum the game through NG+. From the creators of the Souls and Bloodborne shows an epic tale of japan in the 16 century. A young Shinobi named Seikro is tasked by his foster father to protect a young boy who serves as an integral part of the story. The game introduces a newOne of the best games I have ever played. I finished it last week through all endings and I am on my way to platinum the game through NG+. From the creators of the Souls and Bloodborne shows an epic tale of japan in the 16 century. A young Shinobi named Seikro is tasked by his foster father to protect a young boy who serves as an integral part of the story. The game introduces a new gameplay mechanic unlike any that has been done by the souls series or bloodborne. If you play the game like those games then you will have a hard time completing the game. Whatever those game taught should be best forgotten because in this game enemies here will frustrate you hard and their attacks are stronger since this game does not have an upgrade in defense mechanic. The gameplay mechanic relies on attacking and deflection with those two on hand will help you win the battle easily and should be timed fast to counter your enemies. Your main character has a great speed movement with unlimited stamina which can be an advantage. People who will play the game as souls games must understand that your main focus is vitality and postures not stamina. Use prosthetics equipment overcome enemies and you will best bosses using those techniques.… Expand
  29. Darkstrong
    Jul 14, 2019
    10
    It has been years since the game lingered so long on my mind after I finished it. This is truly a masterpiece.
  30. plinqster
    Apr 4, 2019
    10
    Utterly amazing. At some point the combat clicks in your head, and the joy of deflection and careful negotiation of space provides an unparalleled feeling of satisfaction. I learned to watch the screen in a whole new way from playing this game.
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Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Best PS4 Game of 2019
5
#5 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2019
5
#5 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2019

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 77 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 76 out of 77
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 77
  3. Negative: 1 out of 77
  1. RPGamer
    Dec 17, 2024
    90
    Overall, Sekiro is defined by its riveting, challenging, and ultimately highly rewarding gameplay. Stemming from simplicity but giving a wide variety of different combat options, few games come close to matching the exhilarating rush that Sekiro’s best moments provide. Exploring its atmospherically engrossing levels is a treat, from a visual, musical, and atmospheric standpoint. Even if exploration and character storylines are sometimes hampered by Dragonrot, repeatedly severing the immortality of bosses with brutal “Shinobi Executions” and discovering the ritual secrets of eternal life offers a captivating experience that stands out as one of FromSoftware’s best and most distinctive titles.
    Read full review
  2. Gamers' Temple
    May 15, 2019
    90
    Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is an enjoyable, yet deeply challenging game. It's not really a Dark Souls with samurais game, but whether or not you enjoyed the difficulty level of the battles in Dark Souls will be a good benchmark in gauging how much you'll like Sekiro. If you're persistent, up for a challenge, and don't become frustrated easily, then Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is an easy game to recommend.
    Read full review
  3. Daily Star
    Apr 28, 2019
    100
    Though Sekiro feels impossibly hard at times, the level of euphoria you experience when delivering a death blow to a tricky boss or when you finally clear a castle grounds of all enemies is almost unparalleled.
    Read full review
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