Like any good From Software game, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice contains an extremely tough optional boss. In Sekiro’s case, that boss is the Demon of Hatred, a massive three-phase behemoth who can easily massacre unprepared players. In this guide we’ll explain how to find the Demon of Hatred and, more importantly, best it in combat.
Sekiro: Locating the Demon of Hatred
The first thing you should know is that the Demon of Hatred can’t be reached until the very late game. Towards the end of Sekiro’s story campaign, Ashina Castle is overrun by a rival clan of powerful foes. Worse, virtually all of the area’s Sculptor’s Idols become re-locked, forcing you to find and activate them again.
Once you reach Kuro’s room in Ashina Castle, head out onto the rooftops and proceed down and to the left. You’re looking for a long bridge that takes you over to where you fought the game’s Chained Ogre boss. Keep backtracking through the Ashina Outskirts and you’ll reach a new Sculptor’s Idol in front of a massive burning gate.
Interact with the Idol and you’ll be teleported to the ‘Flames of Hatred’ location. Flames of Hatred is basically a slightly modified version of the arena where you fought Gyoubu Oniwa. It’s here that you’ll also find the Demon of Hatred waiting for you.
Defeating the Demon of Hatred
The Demon of Hatred is a *tough* fight. Try to stick close to the Demon during the battle since it will launch projectiles if you stray too far. During each new phase the Demon also utilizes new attacks and combos so be ready as needed. Certain attacks like its Headbutt and foot stomp can be easily deflected. Indeed, you should deflect its attacks whenever possible since trying to dodge them can end badly.
If you’re willing to do a little side work before challenging the Demon of Hatred, it can make things easier. Fully upgrading the Finger Whistle Shinobi Prosthetic Tool transforms it into the Malcontent. You can then use the Malcontent to stun the Demon during the fight, opening it up to successive attacks. However, the Demon can only be stunned in this manner a total of three times. Therefore, it’s best to wait until phase 3 to whip out the Malcontent whistle.
As with any difficult boss, Sekiro’s Demon of Hatred requires patience and perseverance above all else. Even with the Malcontent it won’t be an easy battle, but keep working at it and you should emerge victorious.