To defeat the Guardian Ape in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, look for openings to attack after dodging its sweeping attacks. Use the Firecracker prosthetic tool to stun it and deal damage. When it falls, perform a deathblow to its exposed neck. Patience and precise timing are key to success.
Phase 1: Guardian Ape's initial encounter
In the first phase of the Guardian Ape boss fight in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, you'll be facing the gigantic ape in an open battleground. The key to defeating the Guardian Ape in this phase is to recognize and react to its various attacks. The Guardian Ape has a few specific moves that you can exploit to deal damage. When the Guardian Ape raises its weapon overhead, it's preparing to slam it down. Dodge to the side to avoid this devastating attack and counter immediately while it's recovering.
The Guardian Ape also has a sweeping attack where it swings its weapon horizontally. Jump over this attack to avoid damage and land a few hits on the Guardian Ape while it's vulnerable. Throughout this phase, make sure to maintain a safe distance and bait out its predictable attacks to capitalize on the openings for damage. Utilize your combat skills and prosthetic tools to chip away at its health.
Phase 2: Guardian Ape's second form
Once you've managed to deplete the Guardian Ape's health bar, the fight will transition into the second phase where the Guardian Ape will appear dead on the ground, only to rise again with a new ally - a smaller ape. In this phase, you'll now have to deal with two enemies simultaneously, which can be overwhelming if not approached strategically.
Focus on defeating the smaller ape first to reduce the number of threats you're facing. Utilize your mobility to create distance between the two apes and target your attacks on the smaller one. Once you've taken out the smaller ape, you can return your focus to the Guardian Ape. The same strategies from the first phase apply here, with the added challenge of managing two opponents at once.
Phase 3: Finishing off the Guardian Ape
After successfully navigating through the second phase of the Guardian Ape boss fight, you'll be left with the Guardian Ape alone once again. In this final phase, the Guardian Ape will become more aggressive and may incorporate new, more powerful attacks into its arsenal. It's crucial to stay patient, observe its patterns, and look for openings to retaliate.
Continue to dodge, parry, and counter its attacks while being mindful of your surroundings. Use any remaining resources, such as spirit emblems for prosthetic tools or healing items, to maximize your chances of success. By staying focused and composed, you can whittle down the Guardian Ape's health until you emerge victorious in this challenging encounter.