Gameplay

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is played from a third-person perspective, focusing on stealth, exploration, and precise combat. Unlike FromSoftware's previous titles, it lacks role-playing elements such as character creation and multiplayer components. Instead, it introduces a skill tree, gear upgrades, and special abilities linked to the protagonist's prosthetic arm. Combat revolves around attacking an enemy's posture and balance using a katana, aiming to create openings for fatal strikes. The game also incorporates stealth mechanics, allowing players to eliminate or severely damage enemies undetected. Additionally, the protagonist can use tools like a grappling hook for combat and exploration. Upon death, players have the option to revive on the spot if they possess resurrection power, which is replenished by defeating enemies.

Plot

Set in a fictionalized late 1500s Sengoku-era Japan, the story follows a shinobi named Wolf, who embarks on a mission to rescue his kidnapped lord and seek revenge. The narrative delves into themes of loyalty, honor, and the consequences of immortality, offering multiple endings based on player choices and actions throughout the game.

Development

Development of Sekiro began in late 2015, directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki. The game draws inspiration from the Tenchu series and was initially considered as a sequel to Tenchu before evolving into its own intellectual property. Miyazaki aimed to capture the essence of "swords clashing" in combat, focusing on creating openings for decisive strikes. The game was designed as a single-player experience to avoid the limitations of multiplayer components. Despite its historical setting, Sekiro features no real historical figures or locations. The game was revealed at The Game Awards 2017 and released for PlayStation 4, Windows, and Xbox One on March 22, 2019, with a Stadia version following in October 2020. A free update in October 2020 added new content, including boss challenge modes and cosmetic skins.

Reception

Sekiro received critical acclaim for its gameplay and setting. According to Metacritic, it garnered "universal acclaim" for the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One versions and "generally favorable reviews" for the Windows version. Critics praised the game's combat mechanics, with Destructoid describing open combat as "akin to a waltz" and IGN highlighting its focus on "split-second swordsmanship." The game won several awards, including Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2019 and Best Action Game of 2019 by IGN. It also received the Game of the Year award in the 2019 Steam Awards.

Sales

On release day, Sekiro drew over 108,000 concurrent players on Steam, making it one of the most played games on the platform at the time. Within ten days of its release, over two million units were sold, which rose to over five million by July 2020. As of September 2023, it has sold over ten million units.

Awards

Sekiro won several awards, including Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2019 and Best Action Game of 2019 by IGN. It also received the Game of the Year award in the 2019 Steam Awards.