The Guardian Ape in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice serves as one of the most memorable and challenging encounters in the entire game. Located in the Sunken Valley, this formidable beast forces players to adapt their combat style from traditional sword parries to aggressive positioning and prosthetic management. Mastering this encounter requires a deep understanding of both distinct phases of the fight.
Preparing for the Beast in Phase One
During the first phase, the Guardian Ape behaves like a chaotic wild animal with unpredictable movements and heavy-hitting strikes. Utilizing Shinobi Prosthetics such as the Firecracker or Flame Vent can temporarily stun the creature, allowing you to land several direct sword attacks. Staying close to its back reduces the risk of taking direct damage from its sweeping arm attacks.
Watch closely for the ape's perilous grab attacks and long-range projectile flings. When the ape reaches behind itself to hurl feces, sprint directly toward the boss to get underneath it and avoid the hit completely. Maintaining patience while learning these initial attack patterns ensures you preserve vital healing items for the remainder of the battle.
Navigating the Headless Phase Two Transformation
After severing the ape's head, the fight dramatically shifts tone as the creature rises again wielding a massive sword. The movement style becomes deliberate and rhythmic, making deflections far more reliable than in the first phase. Learning the timing of its deliberate blade swings allows you to build up its posture meter efficiently.
When you successfully deflect two consecutive vertical swings, the ape will fall forward onto the ground in a vulnerable state. Utilizing the Loaded Spear prosthetic on its exposed neck during this opening pulls out the internal centipede for massive posture damage. Always be ready to sprint away when the creature raises its severed head to emit a deadly Terror scream.
Essential Tools and Tactical Advice
Equipping specific items before stepping into the arena can significantly raise your chances of victory. Using Pacifying Agent or the Purple Gourd helps negate incoming Terror damage during the second phase. Additionally, applying Ako's Sugar offers an essential attack boost for shortening the length of the encounter.
Focusing on defensive positioning while identifying key openings is the safest route to triumph. Do not rush your attacks when the boss recovers from a knockdown, as greed often leads to severe punishment. By combining precise deflections with smart prosthetic usage, you can overcome this legendary Sunken Valley threat.
