Sekiro Shadows Die Twice – How Long Does It Take to Beat – Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, by FromSoftware, is an action-adventure game from another generation of mankind. Due to its complex mechanism, painfull boss battles, and engaging storyline, many players get deep into it all looking to take down Ashina. Nevertheless, one of the most frequent inquiries of new entrants in this area is: How long until Sekiro is beat?
The answer depends on several factors, including your skill level, playstyle, and whether you’re aiming for just the main storyline or striving for 100% completion. This will provide an overview of the various components of the gamers’ playthrough of Sekiro and tips to guide players effectively through this difficult and pleasantly engrossing experience.
Main Story Completion: Average Time
For most players, completing the main storyline of Sekiro takes 30 to 40 hours. This estimate assumes you’re focusing primarily on the core objectives and are moderately familiar with FromSoftware’s approach to combat and exploration.
Factors Affecting Main Story Playtime
1. Experience with Similar Games
Players who are accustomed to games such as Dark Souls or Bloodborne will be able to absorb the mechanics of Sekiro quicker, and thus consequently reduce their overall gaming time. Nonetheless, precision and timing rather than stat-intensive builds are at the core of Sekiro and there could be a high learning curve.
2. Combat Mastery
Learning to parry, deflect and to time your strikes is central to Sekiro. Failure to master these mechanics can result in consigning repeated deaths, particularly in boss battles, which leads to significant increase in playtime.
3. Exploration
Although the game is not completely open-world, it includes linked locations with buried secrets, paths, and pyramid-themed optional mini-bosses. The amount of time you spend playing, and thus the thoughts you explore, will depend on your level of investigation.
100% Completion: How Long Does It Take?
Achieving 100% completion in Sekiro can take 60 to 80 hours or more. This involves not just finishing the main story but also:
- Defeating all mini-bosses and main bosses.
- Collecting all items, upgrades, and prosthetic tools.
- Unlocking all four game endings.
- Acquiring all achievements or trophies (for console players).
Key Challenges for Completionists
1. Unlocking All Endings
Sekiro features four distinct endings: Sekiro features four distinct endings:
2. Shura Ending
- Immortal Severance Ending
- Purification Ending
- Return Ending
So as to open them all, you’ll have to play through the game several times or save the game perfectly at key moments of decision.
3. Boss Fights
Sekiro bosses, from the infamous Guardian Ape to the climactic Sword Saint Isshin, are arguably one of the hardest in contemporary gaming. Winning optional bosses and learning their patterns can greatly extend your gameplay.
4. Collectibles and Upgrades
In order to completely upgrade the Shinobi Prosthetic you have to gather rare materials, such as Lapis Lazuli which are located only in certain spots or after fighting specific bosses. Hunting for these resources adds to the overall playtime.
Speedrunning Sekiro: How Fast Can It Be Beaten?
Speedrunning is a thriving community for those wanting a different kind of problem. The present world record for achieving a “Any%” speed run in the game is less than 20 min (2024), which is based on a mixture of masterful skill and the effective exploitation of bugs.
Types of Speedruns
1. Any%
This category focuses on completing the game as quickly as possible, using any means necessary. It is not uncommon for players to bypass parts of the game by using out-of-bounds bugs.
2. Glitchless
In glitchless runs, players complete the game without using exploits. These examples demonstrate raw ability and generally require 1.5-2 hours of gameplay for high level players.
3. All Bosses
This category is one where players must overcome all the bosses and miniplayers in the game, which will increase the available playtime, but will also emphasize learning of Sekiro’s combat.
Playtime by Playstyle
1. Casual Players
If you’re playing at a relaxed pace, enjoying the lore, and exploring every corner of the game world, expect your playthrough to take around 40 to 50 hours. Casual players often spend more time experimenting with combat mechanics or revisiting earlier areas.
2. Intermediate Players
For gamers with some experience in action games, the main story might take 30 to 35 hours, with additional time for optional bosses or collectibles.
3. Hardcore Completionists
Hardcore fans looking to experience everything Sekiro has to offer should prepare for 70+ hours, especially if they’re aiming for multiple endings or achievements.
Tips to Reduce Playtime
If you’re looking to complete Sekiro faster without sacrificing enjoyment, consider these tips:.
- Master the Basics: Get to know the Hirata Estate and early game areas by practicing deflections and counterattacks. Mastery of these mechanics will save time during tougher battles later.
- Upgrade Strategically: Focus on upgrading the Shinobi Prosthetic tools and skills that align with your playstyle. Tools like the Firecracker can trivialize certain boss fights.
- Use Checkpoints Wisely: Sculptor’s Idols serve as checkpoints and fast-travel points. Leverage them for the reverse direction, item improvement, as opposed to the forward direction, unsupervised.
- Watch Tutorials: If you’re stuck on a boss, don’t hesitate to watch strategy guides or tutorials. These can save hours of frustration and be incredibly informative.
- Skip Optional Content: If your intent is to beat the game as quickly as possible, then ignore optional bosses and locations. Nevertheless, please remember that these will often give you desirable items or enhancements.
Why Sekiro Playtime Varies
1. Learning Curve
In contrast to other FromSoftware games, Sekiro emphasizes timing and accuracy rather than the traditional RPG elements of leveling and equipping. Players who are new to this type may require more time to adjust.
2. Exploration vs. Linear Progression
Although, the game has a fairly linear progression, if players who want to look around side areas, they will inevitably increase the amount of playing time.
3. Replay Value
With multiple endings and varying build paths, Sekiro encourages replayability. Playthroughs become speedier with each new experience because of experience with mechanics of the game.
Conclusion
Shadows Die Twice also differs to a very great extent depending on your play style, level of experience, and objectives. Completion of the main story can be completed by the average player in 30–40 h but completionists might take up 60–80 h and more.
Whether you’re taking your time to enjoy the game’s rich lore and challenging combat or racing through it in a speedrun, Sekiro offers a deeply rewarding experience. The bet is to enjoy the process, learn from each death, and to enjoy the feeling of having triumphed over its imposing difficulties.
Sekiro is a game that leaves a lasting impression. Just get your katana, feel the sensation of the shinobi, and get ready for an unforgettable trek through Ashina.