There’s an old saying that video games can ruin your life. Well, that’s only true if you’re playing them wrong. If you’re not playing with the right mindset, then sure, you could waste away your time in front of a screen. But let’s be real: there’s always a way to level up in life—and in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, this happens to be through both gaming and… learning about Japanese history!

Released by FromSoftware two months ago, Sekiro has taken players deep into the heart of Sengoku-era Japan. From battling legendary samurai (and the occasional monkey), to learning the art of death (literally, it’s a thing), the game has offered more than just sword slashing. It’s also a pretty cool cultural experience. Let’s break down some key elements and show you how playing Sekiro could actually teach you more about swords than you ever thought possible.

FromSoftware and the Man Behind the Sword

If you’re familiar with FromSoftware’s games, then you know they don’t just make games—they craft experiences. Directed by the masterful Hidetaka Miyazaki, whose previous works like Dark Souls and Bloodborne blended mythological themes with architectural artistry, Sekiro is a deep dive into the world of Japanese feudalism and samurai culture. The beauty? This game’s cultural output is more about historical immersion than simply showing off swords. It’s a ‘reverse export’, if you will, bringing Japan’s sword culture to a whole new audience.

The Blade of War: A Samurai’s Favorite Weapon

You’ve probably heard that Sekiro encourages players to “parry” with enemies—a kind of swordplay that often sounds like a metal-on-metal orchestra (clang, clang, clang). But the question is: what are these players clashing swords with? Is it just metal for metal’s sake, or something deeper? Let’s talk about the history behind these blades.

The Tale of the Katana

First off, let’s address the most iconic sword in Japan: the katana. The katana has been wielded by samurai for centuries, and it has a fascinating history, dating back to the Heian period. Its curve and sharp edge were designed specifically for cavalry use, and as such, the sword was a symbol of status. The sword wasn’t just for cutting—it was a reflection of the owner’s position in society. In Sekiro, characters like Genichiro Ashina are seen wielding these finely crafted blades, representing both their power and nobility.

But what about the rest of the swords?

The Tachi and the Modern Blade

Then, there’s the tachi. This sword, which came before the katana, was favored by the warrior elite in ancient Japan. It’s longer, curved, and its blade was designed specifically for mounted combat. It’s not just any sword; it’s a symbol of status, used by the most elite samurai. The Sekiro protagonist, “Wolf”, never uses a tachi, but this type of sword is often seen in the hands of the game’s top-tier antagonists.

The Underdog: The Wakizashi

Not every sword used in the game is a grand, shining katana. There’s also the wakizashi, the short sword typically paired with a katana. In the world of Sekiro, the wakizashi is often used in tight spaces, making it perfect for close combat. It’s the perfect counterbalance to the towering, intimidating katanas and represents the ninja’s need to adapt to their environment.

A Little History Behind the Ninja

Speaking of ninja, let’s not forget that in Sekiro, the protagonist Wolf is a ninja. But did you know that historically, ninjas didn’t actually get to carry swords like samurai did? In fact, ninjas used smaller, stealthier weapons—often anything they could find. Their main task was to infiltrate and gather intelligence, not engage in head-on sword battles. The idea of a ninja wielding a katana in direct combat is, well, very Sekiro—but not entirely historically accurate.

In true ninja fashion, Wolf’s primary weapon isn’t a katana. It’s a versatile tool: a prosthetic arm that can transform into a grappling hook, shield, or even a spear! It’s a perfect example of how the game blends fantasy with historical elements, giving us a taste of what it might have been like to live in such a brutal and complex time.

The Beauty of the Blade: The Craftsmanship

For those who are interested in the deep cultural aspects of Sekiro, there’s the craftsmanship of the blades themselves. Japanese swords, with their intricate forging methods, are as much works of art as they are tools of war. The process of creating a katana, for example, involves multiple steps: the folding of metal, tempering the blade, and polishing. It’s a ritual that takes years of practice and dedication, much like the journey in Sekiro itself.

Final Thoughts: The Balance of Games and Learning

So, is it possible to learn about real historical events and the craft of sword making while playing Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice? Absolutely. It’s a game that seamlessly combines entertainment with education—whether you’re learning about Japanese sword types or simply honing your combat skills.

At the end of the day, video games like Sekiro show us that play isn’t just about escapism. It can be about gaining new perspectives, understanding ancient cultures, and—let’s be honest—having a good time while you’re at it.

Game on, warriors.