Katana Mastery

"The greatest of sword masters understand perfectly that true power lies not in the blade but in the will of its wielder. Learn how to use KI energy in combat, by channeling it through your sword."

—In-game description.

Katana Mastery is a skill tree featured in Shadow Warrior (2013).

Overview

Katana Mastery increases katana effectiveness in combat.

Skills

First group

Divider of Heavens: Frontal KI strike that pierces multiple enemies.

"This focused, frontal Ki-strike will slay all but most powerful of opponents."

—In-game description.

Circle of Iron: A spinning AOE attack. You cannot move while it is in effect.

"For the true swordsman combat is meditation in motion. By channeling Ki in a spinning motion the adept is able to strike all opponents surrounding him."

—In-game description.

Wing of Crane: Gives a ranged attack to your katana.

"Wing of Crane generates a wave of energy that emanates outward from the practitioner."

—In-game description.

Divider of Heavens, the very first skill you unlock and the one required to destroy the Tentoki Shrines, is very movement based, that is to say you can constantly be in motion while using it. Circle of Iron is useful when surrounded by foes and Wing of Crane good for taking out enemies from afar.

Second group

Kenshi: Increases KI strike damage by 20%.

"The skilled swordsman's blade is filled with Ki energy, making his blows far deadlier. Ki-strikes deal 20% more damage."

—In-game description.

Kensei: Increases KI strike damage by 50%.

"Only few of the swordmasters become true sword-saints but those who do, become nigh unstoppable, slaying everyone who dares to oppose them. Ki-strikes deal 50% more damage."

—In-game description.

Both skills are good for increasing KI strike base damage.

Third group

Aswang Hunger: KI strikes restore 10 points of health.

"This legendary technique is feared as much as it is revered. Its practitioners convert Ki from their victims into their own life force, healing themselves with every Ki-strike they land."

—In-game description.

This skill is very important since you can heal to your max base health (100-130). It also allows you to be aggressive in combat as both a offensive and defensive move. You are being rewarded for taking risks to hit multiple enemies by restoring your own HP.

Gallery

Katana Mastery screen

Wing of Crane channeling

Wing of Crane released

Divider of Heavens holding

Divider of Heavens released