This is a comprehensive action role-playing game bundle released on February 5, 2021, for PlayStation 4 and PC. It plunges players into a dark fantasy rendition of Sengoku-era Japan, a period rife with conflict and supernatural threats. Players step into the shoes of a customizable protagonist who is part human, part yokai, navigating a world teeming with fearsome demons. The core experience revolves around challenging combat, deep character progression, and exploration across a variety of visually distinct Japanese locales. The bundle offers the complete Nioh 2 experience, including all previously released downloadable content, providing a vast amount of content for players to delve into.

What is the Story and Setting?

The game is set in a fictionalized version of the late Sengoku period in Japan, a time of intense civil war and political upheaval. However, this historical backdrop is infused with a rich tapestry of Japanese folklore and mythology, where yokai – supernatural beings and demons – are a tangible threat. Players embody a half-human, half-yokai protagonist, caught between two worlds and seeking to forge their own path amidst the chaos. The narrative explores themes of identity, ambition, and the struggle against encroaching darkness, weaving a profound story that draws upon historical figures and legendary tales.

What are the Core Gameplay Mechanics?

At its heart, this is a challenging action RPG known for its demanding combat system. Players engage in fast-paced, methodical battles against hordes of yokai and formidable human opponents. Key mechanics include:

Stance System: Players can switch between High, Mid, and Low stances during combat, each offering different attack speeds, damage outputs, and defensive capabilities. Mastering these stances is crucial for adapting to various enemy types and combat situations.
Ki Pulse: A vital mechanic that allows players to recover their stamina (Ki) more quickly after performing actions. Successfully executing a Ki Pulse at the right moment can turn the tide of battle.
Yokai Abilities: As a half-yokai, players can harness the power of fallen yokai, equipping their abilities to unleash devastating attacks and buffs.
Yokai Shift: A powerful transformation that allows the protagonist to temporarily assume a full yokai form, granting access to unique and potent combat styles.
Dark Realms: Certain areas are shrouded in a "Dark Realm" created by powerful yokai. These realms drain the player's Ki and empower enemies, requiring strategic combat and careful resource management to overcome.

What Content is Included in The Complete Edition?

The Complete Edition is a comprehensive bundle that includes the base game along with all three major downloadable content expansions: "The Tengu's Disciple," "Darkness in the Capital," and "The First Samurai." This means players receive the full experience, encompassing all story arcs, new missions, formidable bosses, and additional gear that were released post-launch. It serves as a convenient and complete package for those looking to experience everything this title has to offer.

What Makes This Game Unique?

The game distinguishes itself through its intricate combat system that rewards player skill and strategic thinking. The blend of historical Sengoku-era Japan with a dark fantasy world populated by yokai creates a unique and atmospheric setting. The ability to customize your protagonist and harness yokai powers, including the transformative Yokai Shift, adds a layer of depth and player agency not commonly found in the genre. Furthermore, the inclusion of the Dark Realm mechanic introduces dynamic challenges that require players to adapt their strategies on the fly.

What is the Atmosphere Like?

The atmosphere is consistently dark, gritty, and foreboding. Players will traverse war-torn landscapes, haunted forests, and corrupted castles, all rendered with a distinct visual style that emphasizes the supernatural and the brutal realities of the era. The sound design further enhances this, with eerie ambient noises and impactful combat sounds contributing to a sense of constant peril.

What Platforms is it Available On?

This title is available on PlayStation 4 and PC (Microsoft Windows).