Part 98

Learn how to defeat the Giant Toad in Nioh 3. This guide covers its moves, weaknesses, and strategies to help you complete your father's training.

Alright, so you've got a letter from your… well, your deceased father? Weird, I know, but apparently he really liked you and wants to train you. The game's framing it as a bit of a joke, but if you blow him off, he'll apparently start haunting the place. So, best to humor him and accept the offer, right?

This whole setup leads to a boss fight that's basically a rematch with the Giant Toad. It's a pretty cool encounter, and while the core mechanics are the same as before, the arena has changed. This time around, there are way more obstacles, which is actually a good thing for you. It gives you more places to duck behind and heal up when you need it.

Stats / Weaknesses:

• Boss: Giant Toad
• Weaknesses: Not explicitly stated, but staying close and attacking is generally effective. Avoid getting grabbed.
• Resistances: Likely resistant to standard physical attacks if not timed well.
• Key Mechanic: Arena has more obstacles for cover.

Phases:

1. Phase 1: Spear Focus
   The Toad primarily uses its spear for thrusts and sweeping combos. It also uses its 'Exploding Kunai' attack. Stay mobile, dodge its attacks, and counter when it's open. Use the environment to your advantage for healing.
2. Phase 2: Ninja Tools & Distance (Starts around 75% HP)
   The Toad starts using ninja tools and tries to keep its distance. Continue to close the gap and pressure it. Its grab move (Tongue Grab) becomes a significant threat.
3. Phase 3: Enraged (Last quarter of health)
   The Toad becomes more aggressive. This is the prime time to use your Living Weapon (if available) to deal massive damage and finish the fight.

Strategy:

• Dodge the Spear: The Toad's spear thrusts and combos are its most dangerous attacks. Learn the tells and dodge to the side or behind it. Blocking is an option, but dodging is better for maintaining aggression.
• Beware the Spear Drop: If you stay too close for too long, the Toad will leap up and slam its spear down. This has a small area of effect, so be ready to dodge or guard.
• Avoid the Tongue Grab: This grab move can suck you in, deal damage, and then spit you out for more damage, even if you're guarding. Keep an eye out for its tongue lash.
• Manage Your Ki: Stamina is crucial. Don't get caught with zero Ki when you need to dodge or block.
• Use the Arena: The increased obstacles are your friend. Use them to break line of sight, heal, and recover Ki.
• Item Usage: Consider putting 'Sacred Water' on your hotbar for quick healing. Other Ninjutsu, Onmyo, or Talismans can also provide buffs or debuffs.
• Living Weapon: Deploy your Living Weapon in the last quarter of the Toad's health for a significant damage boost to end the fight quickly.
• Exploding Kunai: If it throws these, you can block them, but you *must* continue to guard to avoid the explosion damage.