Struggling with the Baba Nobuharu boss fight in Nioh 3? This massive yokai can be intimidating, but with the right approach, you’ll claim victory without breaking a sweat. Here’s everything you need to know about how to beat Baba Nobuharu Nioh 3.

Where to Find Baba Nobuharu

You’ll encounter the Nioh 3 Baba Nobuharu location at Futamata Castle during “The Battle of Futamata Castle” main quest. This is a mandatory story boss at recommended level 39, so you can’t miss him. The Futamata Castle arena is littered with coral and oysters, hinting at his water-based abilities.

Close-up of yellow fungus on Baba Nobuharu’s shoulder releasing steam for a mirage attack in Nioh 3. — Image: Team Ninja

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Baba Nobuharu Weakness: Lightning is Key

The biggest advantage you can exploit is Baba Nobuharu weakness Nioh 3 – he’s incredibly vulnerable to lightning damage. Stock up on these items before the fight:

Player using Uncanny Bolt lightning Ninjutsu against Baba Nobuharu in Nioh 3. — Image: Team Ninja

Key Lightning Tools:

Uncanny Bolt (Ninjutsu)
Thunderstorm Shot Talisman
Bloodedge Demon Soul Core (with lightning Guardian Spirit like Nekomata)

Using Nioh 3 Baba Nobuharu Ninjutsu and Nioh 3 Baba Nobuharu Uncanny Bolt consistently will shred his health bar whilst keeping you safe at range.

Understanding His Mirage Attacks

Rewards screen for defeating Baba Nobuharu in Nioh 3 showing Leather Cestuses and Samurai's Locks. — Image: Team Ninja

What makes this Nioh 3 Baba Nobuharu boss fight tricky is his steam-based mirage ability. He creates fake copies that telegraph attacks about one second before the real strike lands. Watch the yellow fungus on his left shoulder – when it releases steam, a mirage attack is coming.

Pro tip: Don’t dodge when you see the mirage. Wait one second, then dodge the actual attack.

Best Strategy for Victory

1. Start with Ninjutsu Begin each phase by launching Nioh 3 Baba Nobuharu lightning attacks from range. This chips away at his health whilst you learn his patterns.

2. Target His Back The Baba boss Nioh is slow and struggles to turn quickly. Dodge through his axe swings and attack from behind for maximum damage. Ninja form excels here due to its speed and evasion.

3. Watch for One-Second Intervals Most of his attacks follow a predictable rhythm – roughly one second between strikes. Use this timing to dodge multiple hits in succession.

4. Burst Break Opportunities Look for red glowing attacks, particularly:

His overhead axe slam (he winds up for 2+ seconds)
Spinning attack followed by a jump strike

Successfully executing Nioh 3 Baba Nobuharu Burst Break creates massive damage windows.

5. Dark Realm Survival When he drags you into the Dark Realm, equip water resistance gear and use your Living Artifact immediately. He spams mirage attacks more frequently here, making it significantly harder. Force him out quickly to simplify the fight.

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Attacks to Watch Out For

Grab Attack: If his claw sparkles, run immediately. This move deals devastating damage and can’t be escaped once caught.

Great Wave: He drags his axe along the ground before releasing a massive water wave. Start dodging when the axe hits the ground, not when you see the wave.

Fake Outs: Stay calm and don’t panic-dodge. His mirages are designed to bait early reactions.

Bonus Tips for an Easy Win

Farm levels first if you’re underleveled – level 39+ recommended
Summon Acolytes from benevolent graves using Ochoko Cups for distractions
Use Power Talismans and Power Pills for attack buffs (they don’t stack)
The Bloodedge Demon Baba Nobuharu combo is devastating when paired with lightning spirits
Block when unsure about dodge timing (except grabs)

Rewards for Victory

Defeating the Futamata boss earns you:

Leather Cestuses (Lv. 44)
Genin’s Splitstaff (Lv. 44)
Hand Cannon (Lv. 44)
Demon of Mino’s Charm
Samurai’s Locks

FAQs

What is Baba Nobuharu weak to in Nioh 3?

Baba Nobuharu is weak to lightning/electrified status. Use Uncanny Bolt, Thunderstorm Shot Talismans, and lightning-infused weapons for maximum damage.

How do you avoid Baba Nobuharu’s mirage attacks?

Watch the yellow fungus on his left shoulder. When steam releases, a mirage attack is coming. Wait one second after seeing the fake attack before dodging the real one.

Where is Baba Nobuharu located in Nioh 3?

He’s located at Futamata Castle during “The Battle of Futamata Castle” main quest in the Warring States Era. You’ll also face him again in the “Takeda’s Four Heavenly Kings” sub-mission.

What level should I be to fight Baba Nobuharu?

The recommended level is 39. If you’re struggling, farm some levels and upgrade your gear before attempting the fight again.

Can you summon help for the Baba Nobuharu boss fight?

Yes, you can summon Acolytes from benevolent graves using Ochoko Cups, which you obtain by defeating revenants at bloody graves.