Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice takes from the well defined souls formula, but sets itself apart with a more defensive approach to gameplay where parrying and building posture is key to defeating enemies. The satisfaction of leaping on an incoming enemy spear thrust or exchanging lightning attacks in the air is absolutely awesome once you get the hang of it. Along with your sword, you also have the customizable tool to help provide windows for attack or shield from attacks, all of which feel great and perfectly balanced. Also new is the grapple ability, adding verticality in level design and to use combat, which is done very well.

FromSoftware uses a more direct approach to storytelling and role-playing elements for Sekiro which is refreshing. The aesthetics, graphics and sound design are perfect, some of the most beautiful areas FS ever done are here.

The only thing about Sekiro I am critical on is the resurrection ability, I wish it was more balanced strategically as I 99% of the time chose to resurrect as there was little consequence. There is also a significant difficulty spike around the Ashina Castle area that can seem overwhelming, gotta get good.