Katana Challenge Presentation Summary

Jul 10, 2024

Katana Challenge Overview

Main Rules of the Challenge

  1. No Katana Usage
    • No striking, blocking, or parrying with the katana
  2. Tutorials Not Counted
  3. Playing on Hard Mode
  4. Skipping Prologue

Merchandise Announcement

  • Three New Designs
    • T-shirt commemorating deteriorating mental state
    • T-shirt for Larry the Lizard
    • T-shirt of creator's sleep paralysis demon
  • Available as Shirts or Hoodies
  • New Logo on Sleeve

Game Context

  • Mongols raiding Japan
  • Protagonist's friends die; uncle captured
  • Quest for revenge

Initial Gameplay

  • Meet an Archery Master
    • Gain a bow
    • Successfully clear a camp
  • Unlock Backstab Ability
    • Uses a smaller blade (tonto)
  • Upgrade Bow and Unlock Kunai
  • Take down Mongol outposts

Encounter Challenges

  • Facing Duels
    • Incapable of dealing damage initially
    • Forced to just stand and take hits
  • Difficulty with Arrows
    • Arrows are not always easy to find mid-fight

Major Missions and Upgrades

  • Rescue Blacksmith
    • Sneak into Mongol base
    • Introduce Sticky Bomb and Ghost Weapon
  • Travel throughout the open world
    • Complete side quests
    • Attempt raids

Boss Fights

  1. Mercenary Fight
  • Learn and adapt to attack patterns
  • Use armor upgrades and charms to boost resolve
  1. Castle Siege & Uncle Rescue Mission
  • Sneak into the base
  • Deal with traitorous mercenaries
  • Utilize kick combo in fights
  1. Duels with Major Enemies
  • Castle Leader with burning sword
  • Utilize bows, arrows, and hit-and-run strategies

Final Showdown

  • Conquer Forts and Minor Battles
    • Raid fortresses
    • Prepare for the final battle with the Khan
  • Khan's Final Fight
    • Utilize bow and tools effectively
    • Defeat Khan despite challenges
  • Uncle Confrontation
    • Overcome personal conflict
    • Decide to spare uncle

Conclusion

  • Challenge Summary
    • Used katana four times as necessary
    • Completed the challenge

Note: This was a highly strategic and tactical playthrough, focusing on overcoming the limitations of not using the katana.