What is Issen and How to Perform it
Issen is a perfectly timed counterattack that strikes an opponent just before their attack lands. It deals lethal damage to lesser opponents, while inflicting massive HP and stamina damage to bosses.
Certain enemies have audio and visual cues that can serve as references for when to perform the technique. The sword-wielding Genma, for example, produces a rattle-like sound when readying an attack and right again just before committing to it. Their swords may also briefly glimmer before they strike. Pay attention to these, as the frames immediately after are the ideal window for landing an Issen.
Watch our clip of a slowed down Issen to get a better handle on how it works.
What is Chain Issen and How to Perform it
Chain Issen is a skill that allows Musashi to perform multiple consecutive Issen. This makes it possible for him to instantly thin out groups, however, landing the full chain takes practice.
As soon as an Issen hits, immediately attack again to continue the chain. The timing window appears to be around the moment your weapon produces a white glowing streak and the slicing sound begins. While these cues help, memorizing the rhythm seems to be more reliable.
Watch our clip of a slowed down Chain Issen to get a better handle on how it works.
The skill must first be unlocked with 2 x Power Stones in the Basic Skill Tree using the Spirit Mirror. The chain length can also be increased as you go down its skill path.
How to Perform Both Skills Consistently
[1] Study the enemy's attack animation.
Familiarize yourself with each attack to learn when to pull off a counter. Since Issen has a very tight timing window, knowing what kind of attack is going to hit next is crucial for landing it consistently. Our Boss Guides include an attack table for each boss, so you can study their moves before the fight.
[2] Fight at the right distance.
Fighting at a comfortable distance allows you to read an attack easily and find the right counter timing. Reposition whenever enemies start to crowd your position so you can see each attack clearly.
[3] Understand the timing difference of the two skills.
Issen requires you to strike just before an enemy lands an attack, while Chain Issen requires you to attack as soon as a counter connects. Learning to distinguish between these timings is key to mastering both skills.
[4] Use slower or more predictable attacks for practice.
Start practicing with attacks that are easier to anticipate as these have clearer cues. Keep honing your senses to develop consistency. Once the timing feels natural, move on to countering attacks with tighter windows.
Master both skills by practicing their drills at the Practice Grounds.
Related Guides
List of Bosses
Helpful Guides
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