Nioh
In short: Nioh is an RPG game released in 2017 by Team Ninja, available on PC and PS4. Our score: 8.5/10 (highly recommended).
An acclaimed RPG by Team Ninja.
{"title":"Nioh","description":"Nioh, a formidable action RPG developed by Team Ninja, plunges players into a dark and brutal Sengoku-era Japan, infused with fantastical Yokai and formidable demons. You embody William Adams, a historical English samurai who has found himself entangled in the ongoing civil war that plagued Japan in the late 16th century. Driven by a personal quest for revenge and the pursuit of a mysterious antagonist named Kelley, William battles his way through treacherous landscapes, castle sieges, and the spirit world itself. The narrative weaves together historical events with Japanese folklore, creating a compelling saga of ambition, betrayal, and the struggle against overwhelming supernatural forces. \n\nGameplay in Nioh is a demanding yet deeply rewarding dance of combat and exploration. Inspired by the Souls-like genre, it features intricate level design, challenging boss encounters, and a steep learning curve. Players must master the Ki (stamina) system, a crucial resource that governs attacking, dodging, and blocking. Strategic use of different combat stances – High, Middle, and Low – allows for unique attack patterns and defensive capabilities, demanding adaptability and precise timing. Nioh's loot system is extensive, with a vast array of weapons, armor, and accessories, each with randomized stats and special abilities, encouraging build experimentation and meticulous gear management. Beyond standard combat, players can utilize Yokai abilities, tr…
Game details
- Developer: Team Ninja
- Publisher: Koei Tecmo
- Release year: 2017
- Platforms: PC, PS4
- Category: RPG
Our review
Nioh, Team Ninja's 2017 action RPG, masterfully blends challenging combat, deep customization, and a rich, dark fantasy setting. Players step into the shoes of William Adams, a Western samurai navigating a demon-infested Sengoku-era Japan. The combat system is undoubtedly Nioh's crowning glory, offering intricate stances, weapon types, and diverse Yokai abilities to master. It demands precision, patience, and strategic thinking, often drawing comparisons to the 'Souls-like' genre but establishing its own unique identity with its Ki pulse mechanic and guardian spirits. Graphically, the game presents a beautifully grim world, though some textures can appear a little dated on closer inspection. The story, while engaging, can be somewhat convoluted due to its historical and mythological elements. However, the sheer amount of content, from challenging main missions to countless side quests and a robust New Game+ mode, ensures excellent value for money. Nioh is a demanding experience, but f…
Pros
- Deep and rewarding combat system
- Extensive customization options
- Challenging and satisfying boss fights
- High replayability with New Game+ modes
- Rich dark fantasy setting
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Story can be convoluted
- Some repetitive environments
- Occasional visual imperfections
FAQ
- What type of game is Nioh?
- Nioh is an action RPG (Role-Playing Game) known for its challenging combat and deep customization options, often compared to the Souls series.
- Who developed and published Nioh?
- Nioh was developed by Team Ninja and published by Koei Tecmo.
- When was Nioh released and on which platforms?
- Nioh was released in 2017 and is available on PC and PlayStation 4.
- Is Nioh a difficult game?
- Yes, Nioh is widely regarded as a challenging game, requiring precise timing, strategic combat, and patience to overcome its tough enemies and bosses. However, its combat system is very rewarding once mastered.
- What are the key features of Nioh's combat system?
- Nioh's combat system features various stances (high, mid, low) that change your attack patterns, a 'Ki' (stamina) management system, and the ability to use Yokai abilities. Mastering these elements is crucial for success.
More about this game
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Last updated: 01/04/2026