Nioh 3: Guide to Defeating Jakotsu-baba
Jakotsu-baba is one of the most intriguing and challenging bosses in Nioh 3, known for her semi-human appearance and her terrifying ability to control two giant serpents. This fight will test your reflexes and observation skills. In this guide, we’ll explain how to defeat Jakotsu-baba, including her attacks, weaknesses, and the best strategies to win.
Who is Jakotsu-baba?
Jakotsu-baba is a yokai that appears as an old woman accompanied by two massive skeletal serpents: a blue one that controls ice and a red one that controls fire. According to lore, her deep resentment toward humans stems from being the wife of Jagoemon, a serpent god sealed away by humans.
You’ll encounter Jakotsu-baba multiple times throughout the game as a recurring threat in areas like Hamamatsu Castle Town and Edo Castle.
Where to Find Jakotsu-baba
You can encounter Jakotsu-baba in the following locations:
- Hamamatsu Castle Town Crucible – During a side mission in this area.
- Kiyomizu, east of the Dilapidated Temple Shrine – During the side mission “Seeking Rare Yokai.”
- Edo Castle – In the main mission “A Sinister End.”
Rewards for Defeating Jakotsu-baba
Jakotsu-baba drops valuable rewards upon defeat, including the following:
- Heir Set
- Jakotsu-Baba Soul Core
- Ninja’s Locks
- Upper Vassal Set
- Archer Set
- First Captain Set
Additionally, there’s a chance to receive random weapons and items such as the Hunter’s Splitstaff, Wisteria Longbow, or Rai Odachi.
Weaknesses and Resistances of Jakotsu-baba
Weaknesses:
- Electricity
- Confusion
- Paralysis
- Wind (Bluster)
Resistances:
- Fire (Scorched)
- Poison
- Water (Saturated)
Using lightning-based abilities and weapons will be your best strategy to exploit her vulnerabilities.
Strategies to Defeat Jakotsu-baba
1. Learn Her Key Attacks
Jakotsu-baba has a wide range of attacks that can be devastating if you’re not prepared. Here are her most prominent attacks and tips to counter them:
Main Attacks:
- Charged Serpent Bite: Her right serpent pulls back and glows red before lunging at you.
How to avoid: Dodge to the sides as soon as you see the red glow. - Staff Swing: Sweeps her staff in a wide arc in front of her.
How to avoid: Step backward or to the side to dodge the sweep. - Head Bite: Her own head stretches out like a serpent to bite you.
How to avoid: Stay alert and dodge sideways when her head begins to elongate. - Ice Crystal Attack: The blue serpent releases ice crystals toward you.
How to avoid: Keep moving laterally to evade the ice shards. - Fire Breath from the Red Serpent: The red serpent breathes fire in a wide area.
How to avoid: Time your dodge or jump to avoid the flames.
2. Stay Mobile
Constant movement is key to surviving this fight. Her serpents have wide attack ranges, so dodging and repositioning frequently will minimize the chances of getting hit.
3. Take Advantage of Her Openings
After certain attacks, Jakotsu-baba will pause briefly, giving you a small window to deal significant damage. Use your strongest combos during these moments.
4. Utilize Soul Core Abilities
Soul Core abilities can be a game-changer during this fight. Use them strategically when Jakotsu-baba is vulnerable to deal massive damage quickly.
Attacks and How to Counter Them
| Attack | Description | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Charged Serpent Bite | Right serpent pulls back and glows red before lunging. | Dodge to the sides when the glow appears. |
| Staff Swing | Sweeps her staff in a wide arc in front of her. | Step backward or dodge sideways. |
| Head Bite | Her head stretches and lunges to bite. | Stay alert and dodge sideways. |
| Ice Crystal Attack | Blue serpent releases ice crystals toward you. | Keep moving laterally until the attack finishes. |
| Fire Breath Attack | Red serpent breathes fire over a large area. | Time your dodge or jump to avoid the flames. |
| Triple Frost Serpent Bite | Blue serpent bites three times in rapid succession. | Dodge sideways three times to avoid the bites. |
| Fire Horned Serpent Grab | The red serpent lunges to grab and slam you. | Dodge away as soon as you see smoke gathering around its head. |
Final Tips
- Don’t Get Greedy: Attack only when it’s safe. Overextending can lead to devastating counterattacks.
- Equip the Right Gear: Use weapons and abilities that deal lightning damage for maximum effectiveness.
- Break Her Stance: Breaking her stance will give you an opportunity to deal massive damage.
Jakotsu-baba is a tough boss, but with patience and the right strategies, you can overcome her. Focus on learning her attack patterns, stay mobile, and take advantage of her weaknesses. Follow this guide, and you’ll be well-prepared to defeat this eerie and powerful yokai.
Good luck, samurai! Overcoming Jakotsu-baba will be an epic test of your skills in Nioh 3.