Nioh 3 shifts from linear levels to an open-world layout set in a demon-infested feudal Japan, while retaining core Soulslike progression and reward systems.

Note on article context: the piece includes author bios and situational remarks, but the core content focuses on gameplay experience and analysis.

Buildcrafting has evolved: players can double-jump, use stealth and stealth kills, and switch between 14 weapon types (Samurai and Ninja) with fluid transitions that double as parries; Living Artifact modes enhance combat with weapon-specific upgrades.

The PC port runs at a locked 120 FPS at 1440p on compatible hardware, and visuals are solid, though not the series’ strongest attribute.

The demo culminates in a crafted dungeon with branching paths and a challenging boss, but the author spent most time exploring the open world and testing mechanics.

Rare demon cores grant magic spells and buffs, talismans can summon enemies for brief aid, and stat/skill respec is free, enabling dynamic experimentation.

Exploration and collectible systems drive progression and map incentives, with rewards extending to upgrades, new weapon skills, and passives.

The author began the Nioh 3 demo with a short plan but ended up playing for hours, finding it highly engaging and potentially the best in the series.

Combat emphasizes dynamic style-switching between Ninja and Samurai to exploit weaknesses, manage stamina, and pursue varied strategies in fights and boss encounters.

Overall verdict: Nioh 3 appears to be a significant improvement over Nioh 2, with strong potential to be among the best Soulslikes, rivaling open-world titles in exploration and yokai combat.