Build Guide
Beginner-friendly build templates with stat priorities, armor recommendations, and playstyle tips. Plan your character before launch.
How Builds Work
A "build" in Nioh 3 is your combination of stats, weapon, armor, and skills. Key components:
- Stats — Determine damage scaling, health, Ki, and equipment requirements
- Weapon — Each weapon scales with specific stats (see weapon guide)
- Armor Weight — Light = fast dodges, Heavy = better blocking
- Skills — Active abilities and passive bonuses from skill trees
For beginners, focus on matching your stats to your weapon's scaling. Everything else can be optimized later.
Starter Build Templates
These templates are designed for new players. They prioritize survivability while maintaining solid damage. Pick one based on your preferred weapon.
Balanced Katana
Versatile build that works everywhere. Good damage, decent survivability.
Safe Spear
Maximum safety through range and health. Slower but reliable.
Aggressive Dual Swords
Fast and mobile. High damage output if you can avoid hits.
Heavy Odachi
Trade hits with massive damage. Tank through mistakes.
Stat Allocation Guide
General stat priority for any build:
- Primary weapon stat — Your main damage source
- Constitution — Health. More forgiveness for mistakes.
- Secondary weapon stat — Additional damage scaling
- Stamina — Equipment weight limit. Only if needed for armor.
- Other stats — Magic/Dexterity for utility if desired
Don't spread stats evenly. Focus on 2-3 stats maximum for best results.
Plan with the Simulator
Use our build simulator to:
- Test stat allocations before committing in-game
- Compare damage between different setups
- Check equipment requirements
- Export and share builds with others
The simulator uses game formulas to calculate accurate damage values. Plan your endgame build before you even start playing.