Nioh recently received a new update (1.16), the full patch notes for which are now available online. Alongside bringing a plethora of adjustments and bug fixes, the patch adds a new feature called “Battles of Skill” to the game’s PvP. You can find all the details below.

IMPROVEMENTS

Added a new feature to PVP battles: “Battles of Skill”

In these battles, you forego your current setup and instead fight using different equipment abilities, stats, and shortcuts. Furthermore, Crest boons, Passive skills, Prestige titles, and Mystic Arts are disabled.

Your Guardian Spirit’s level will also be changed to a set value, but all Guardian Spirit protections will be active.

All changes are temporary, and are only applied during a PVP battle.
When searching for a PVP battle, you can now select between “Skill” (for Battles of Skill) or “Strength”.

“Battles of Strength” are the same as PVP battles up until now (you use your own equipment as normal).
ADJUSTMENTS

Raised the level cap from 500 to 550 after reaching the Way of the Wise.
Greatly increased the amount of Amrita received for completing missions in the Way of the Wise.
Greatly increased the amount of Amrita received from enemies appearing in missions level 500 or higher in the Way of the Wise.
Players are now able to evade immediately as they get up.
Shortened the amount of time needed for a max charge of the Sword skill “Iai Quickdraw.”
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