Nioh 2 - The Complete Edition stands out as a demanding action RPG that blends intense combat with elements of Japanese folklore and history. Set during the turbulent Sengoku period in Japan, you step into the role of a customizable protagonist who battles ferocious yokai spirits across war-torn landscapes. This edition bundles the base game with three major expansions, delivering a comprehensive experience for PC players seeking a test of skill and strategy.
Gameplay
The core of Nioh 2 revolves around its intricate combat system, where timing and adaptability define success. You wield various weapons, each with three stances - high, mid, and low - that alter attack speed, range, and power, encouraging constant switching to exploit enemy weaknesses. The Yokai Shift mechanic lets you transform into powerful forms to turn the tide against tough foes, drawing from a pool of supernatural abilities. Enemies can summon Dark Realms, shadowy zones that heighten difficulty by boosting their strength while limiting your recovery options. A robust loot system, reminiscent of action RPGs with deep customization, allows for extensive build experimentation through gear and magic, though some find managing the abundance of items overwhelming. Resource management, such as ki for stamina, adds layers to every encounter, rewarding precise rhythm in dodges, blocks, and bursts.
Game Modes
Nioh 2 emphasizes mission-based progression in its single-player campaign, where you tackle levels filled with challenging enemies and bosses. For cooperative play, the game offers Expeditions, a mode that supports up to three players in custom lobbies to complete missions together, featuring an assist gauge for revives and scaled difficulty. Another option is Random Encounters, where you summon visitors using Ochoko Cups to aid in specific missions, ideal for quick help on tough sections. These modes enable tackling the entire story with friends, though the focus remains on strategic combat rather than competitive elements.
Expansions and Content
The Complete Edition enriches the base game with three DLC expansions that explore earlier historical periods. The Tengu's Disciple transports you to the end of the Heian period, delving into clan rivalries between Genji and Heike. Darkness in the Capital uncovers yokai-infested events in the mid-Heian era, linking past and present narratives. The First Samurai concludes with a confrontation at Suzuka Pass in the early Heian period against the antagonist Otakemaru. Each adds new weapons, abilities, and story depth, extending playtime significantly.
Is It Worth Playing?
With a Metascore of 86 from 27 critic reviews and a user score of 7.6 from 365 ratings on Metacritic, Nioh 2 - The Complete Edition earns praise for its refined combat and level design, though some note repetition in loot and structure. As of 2026, it remains a strong choice for those who enjoy Soulslike challenges, with PC enhancements like 4K support, HDR, and up to 120 FPS improving accessibility. If you thrive on mastering complex mechanics in a historical fantasy setting, this title delivers lasting value; otherwise, its steep difficulty might deter casual players.
