Ever feel like you’re banging your head against a brick wall? Specifically, a fiery, ape-like brick wall that’s trying to stomp you into oblivion? If you’re playing Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, you probably know exactly what I’m talking about: the Demon of Hatred.
This optional boss is notorious for its relentless attacks and massive health pool. But don’t despair! This article provides crucial Demon of Hatred tips to defeat the boss, turning this frustrating encounter into a satisfying victory. We’ll cover strategies, weaknesses, and everything you need to know to bring down this raging inferno.
Understanding the Demon of Hatred: A Primer
Before diving into the Demon of Hatred tips to defeat the boss, let’s understand what makes this enemy so challenging. He’s huge, aggressive, and has a wide range of perilous attacks.
He’s also resistant to many common strategies. This means you need a specific approach to succeed.
Why is the Demon of Hatred so Difficult?
The Demon of Hatred is tough for several reasons. His size makes dodging difficult.
His attacks cover a wide area. His health bar is massive.
He has three distinct phases, each with its own unique challenges. Learning to adapt is essential.
Essential Stats and Resistances
Knowing the Demon of Hatred’s stats is vital. He’s resistant to most status effects.
He’s also highly resistant to vitality damage. Focus on posture damage and exploiting his weaknesses.
He is weak to the Loaded Umbrella’s Suzaku upgrade. This provides fire resistance.
Gear and Preparations: Setting Yourself Up for Success
Proper preparation is key to any tough fight. The Demon of Hatred is no exception.
Choosing the right gear and items can significantly increase your chances of survival. This is a must when looking for Demon of Hatred tips to defeat the boss.
Recommended Prosthetic Tools
Several prosthetic tools are incredibly useful. The Loaded Umbrella (Suzaku) is essential for blocking fire attacks.
The Loaded Spear can pull him down after certain attacks. The Malcontent whistle is useful in the final phase.
The Firecrackers can provide brief openings for attack. Experiment to find what works best for you.
Essential Items and Skills
Carry plenty of healing items, such as Pellets and Gourds. Divine Confetti is unnecessary as it doesn’t affect him.
Consider equipping skills like Ichimonji Double to break his posture. The Mid-Air Deflection skill can also be useful for aerial attacks.
Don’t forget Ako’s Sugar or Ungo’s Sugar for increased damage or defense. These buffs can make a noticeable difference.
Phase-by-Phase Strategies: Mastering the Fight
The Demon of Hatred fight is divided into three phases. Each phase requires a different approach.
Adapting your strategy is crucial for success. This is where specific Demon of Hatred tips to defeat the boss become invaluable.
Phase 1: Aggressive Offense and Deflection
In the first phase, stay close and be aggressive. Deflect his stomps and sword swings.
Use the Loaded Umbrella to block his fire attacks. Watch out for his perilous sweep attack.
Jump over it to avoid damage. When he jumps back, grapple to him to close the distance.
Phase 2: Managing Distance and Fire Attacks
Phase two is similar to phase one. However, he gains new fire-based attacks.
Be particularly wary of his fireballs and flame pillars. Use the Loaded Umbrella to block fireballs.
Dodge the flame pillars by running to the side. Continue to close the distance and attack when possible.
Phase 3: Exploiting Weaknesses and the Malcontent Whistle
Phase three is the most challenging. He becomes more aggressive and erratic.
Use the Malcontent whistle three times after he performs a specific attack. This will stun him, allowing for free hits.
Continue to use the Loaded Umbrella to block fire attacks. Grapple to him after he jumps to avoid his perilous attacks.
Specific Attack Patterns and How to Counter Them
Understanding the Demon of Hatred’s attack patterns is crucial. Knowing how to counter them is even more important.
Here are some key attacks and strategies. These Demon of Hatred tips to defeat the boss will help you survive.
Perilous Sweep Attack
The Demon of Hatred often performs a perilous sweep attack. Jump over it to avoid damage.
This also provides an opportunity to attack him in the air. Use this to your advantage.
Fireball Attack
He launches fireballs that can deal significant damage. Use the Loaded Umbrella (Suzaku) to block them.
Alternatively, you can dodge them, but blocking is safer. Be ready to deflect or block follow-up attacks.
Jumping Slam Attack
The Demon of Hatred jumps into the air and slams down. Grapple to him to avoid the impact.
This allows you to close the distance and get in some free hits. Be prepared for a follow-up attack.
Stomp Attack
He performs a series of stomps that can break your posture. Deflect these stomps to build his posture.
Be careful not to get caught in the consecutive stomps. Maintain your guard and deflect precisely.
Advanced Strategies and Techniques
Beyond the basics, there are advanced strategies to optimize your fight. These Demon of Hatred tips to defeat the boss can give you an edge.
These techniques require practice but can significantly improve your efficiency. Mastering these will make the fight easier.
Using the Environment to Your Advantage
The arena has several ledges and cliffs. You can use these to your advantage.
Jumping off a ledge and grappling back can create distance. It can also bait certain attacks.
Posture Breaking Strategies
Focus on breaking the Demon of Hatred’s posture. Deflecting his attacks and using Ichimonji Double are effective.
Once his posture is broken, deliver a critical hit. This deals significant damage.
The Malcontent Whistle Trick
The Malcontent whistle is incredibly useful in phase three. Use it after he completes his jumping slam attack.
It stuns him, allowing for multiple free hits. Remember, it only works three times.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many players make common mistakes during this fight. Avoiding these mistakes can significantly increase your chances of success.
Knowing what not to do is as important as knowing what to do. Steer clear of these pitfalls.
Panic Dodging
Avoid panic dodging. It often leads to getting caught in his attacks.
Instead, focus on deflecting and using the Loaded Umbrella. Strategic dodging is better than random dodging.
Neglecting Fire Resistance
Ignoring fire resistance is a fatal mistake. The Loaded Umbrella (Suzaku) is essential.
It mitigates fire damage and protects you from burning. Don’t underestimate its importance.
Ignoring Posture Damage
Focusing solely on vitality damage is ineffective. Prioritize breaking his posture.
This opens him up for critical hits and deals significant damage. Posture damage is key to victory.
Conclusion
Defeating the Demon of Hatred is a challenging but rewarding experience in Sekiro. By understanding his attack patterns, utilizing the right tools, and mastering the strategies outlined in this guide, you can overcome this formidable foe. Remember to stay patient, adapt to each phase, and exploit his weaknesses. Now go forth, Shinobi, and conquer the Demon of Hatred! Share your strategies and experiences in the comments below!
FAQ Section
Q: What’s the best prosthetic tool for the Demon of Hatred?
A: The Loaded Umbrella (Suzaku) is undoubtedly the best. It provides crucial fire resistance, allowing you to block his fire attacks effectively. The Loaded Spear and Malcontent Whistle are also very useful.
Q: How many times can I use the Malcontent whistle on the Demon of Hatred?
A: You can use the Malcontent whistle a maximum of three times during the third phase. Time it correctly after his jumping slam attack for the best results.
Q: Is Divine Confetti effective against the Demon of Hatred?
A: No, Divine Confetti does not affect the Demon of Hatred. It’s best to save your Divine Confetti for other enemies who are vulnerable to it.
