🐉 Boss Overview
Otakemaru has three main phases, each ramping up aggression and introducing new attacks.

He uses melee sword combos, elemental slashes (fire and lightning), and devastating area attacks.

Mixes fast dashes, heavy overhead strikes, and ranged projectiles.

Can summon minions or create hazards during the fight.

Phase 1: Melee & Basic Attacks
Common moves:

Swift sword slashes and combos—dodge sideways or back after 1–2 hits.

Overhead heavy strikes—block or parry if confident.

Quick lunges and dash attacks—keep moving to avoid getting cornered.

Strategy:

Stay close enough to bait attacks but keep mobility high.

Use ki pulse aggressively after attacks to maintain stamina.

Parry or block overhead strikes for big counter windows.

Phase 2: Elemental Slashes & AoE
Otakemaru adds fire and lightning elemental attacks:

Fire waves that travel across the ground—jump or dodge over them.

Lightning arcs that strike in a cone—back away or dodge roll sideways.

Large AoE explosions with a short windup.

Strategy:

Learn attack cues carefully—telegraphed windups mean dodge time.

Use terrain and keep distance to avoid AoE damage.

Use ranged attacks or Onmyo spells to interrupt minion summons.

Phase 3: Frenzy & Summons
Otakemaru’s speed increases, with rapid combos and mix-ups.

He summons minions or creates damaging zones.

Some attacks become unblockable or have extended hitboxes.

Strategy:

Prioritize avoiding damage over attacking—survival first.

Use burst damage tools like Living Weapon or powerful Guardian Spirit attacks after dodging big moves.

Clear minions quickly to avoid being overwhelmed.

General Tips
Upgrade gear fully—both weapons and armor matter.

Use fire-resistant armor or buffs to mitigate elemental damage.

Maintain ki and stamina—use ki pulse constantly to stay aggressive.

Don’t get greedy—hit a couple of times, then back off.

Healing: Use Elixirs during safe windows, never when the boss is about to attack.

Sample Melee Build Strategy
Dodge Otakemaru’s initial sword combos, counter with 2–3 hits, then ki pulse.

Avoid elemental AoEs by keeping moving and reading attack cues.

Use parries on overhead strikes for big openings.

When Otakemaru slows or staggers, activate Living Weapon for burst damage.

Keep minions under control—don’t let them swarm you.

Summary
Learn and respect Otakemaru’s tells and combos.

Dodge smart, don’t block everything—some moves are unblockable.

Use stamina management and ki pulses to keep offensive pressure.

Use buffs and gear suited for elemental resistances.

Stay patient and wait for your moment to strike hard.