Who is the final boss in Sekiro? Isshin, the Sword Saint
Sekiro's final boss is Isshin, the Sword Saint, in three of the game's four endings. The fight begins against Genichiro Ashina (Way of Tomoe) at the Ashina Reservoir, and after you defeat him, Isshin emerges in his prime. If you choose the Shura ending instead, your last fight is against Emma and the elderly Isshin Ashina at Ashina Castle.
How the Sword Saint fight works
- Genichiro, Way of Tomoe: one deathblow, with lightning attacks you can reverse.
- Isshin phase one: fast katana combos and long sword-wave slashes.
- Isshin phase two: he adds a spear and a gun, with long sweeping attacks.
- Isshin phase three: a thunderstorm begins and he uses lightning. Jump and reverse it back at him for heavy posture damage.
Most players beat him by deflecting aggressively, using mikiri counters on his thrusts, and keeping pressure on so his posture does not recover.
Which ending gives which boss
- Shura: side with the Great Shinobi Owl, your foster father, and abandon Kuro — ends with Emma and Isshin Ashina.
- Immortal Severance, Purification, Return: all end with Genichiro and Isshin, the Sword Saint.
FAQ
Is Genichiro the final boss of Sekiro?
He is the first part of the final fight, not the last boss. Isshin, the Sword Saint, appears after Genichiro is defeated.
Which final boss is harder?
Most players consider the Sword Saint harder than the Shura ending's fight against Emma and Isshin Ashina.
What happens if you die too often in Sekiro?
Repeated deaths spread Dragonrot to NPCs, who start coughing and stop offering some quests. You can cure it with Dragon's Blood Droplets.
Is the Sword Saint the same as Isshin Ashina?
Yes. Isshin, the Sword Saint is Isshin Ashina in his prime, brought back when Genichiro uses the Black Mortal Blade on himself. The elderly Isshin Ashina is the version you fight in the Shura ending.
What is the toughest boss in Sekiro?
Isshin, the Sword Saint, and the optional Demon of Hatred are the most often named.