Nioh 2 features a wide selection of armour sets, each designed to suit different builds. Some prioritise speed, others resilience or raw damage. Below is an overview of the most effective sets, how they perform, and where to find them.
Kingo Set: The Flexible All-Rounder
The Kingo set is a balanced option. It provides bonuses for final blows, backstab damage and melee power while keeping weight manageable.
How to get it: Found in mid-game missions and dropped by strong enemies.
Arrowsbane and Yoshiie’s Birthright: Heavy Favourites
These sets are ideal for tanky playstyles. Arrowsbane excels in damage reduction, while Yoshiie’s Birthright leans towards survivability combined with decent offensive perks.
How to get them: Typically obtained in high-difficulty missions or from elite enemies in later stages.
Warrior of the West: Balanced Medium Armour
A reliable choice for those who want toughness without losing agility. It sits in the medium armour category, letting you stay above C Agility while keeping good resistances.
How to get it: Gained as mission rewards and occasionally from main story bosses.
Tatenashi: The Defensive Fortress
One of the heaviest sets in the game, Tatenashi provides unparalleled resistance to physical, elemental and ranged attacks. It makes difficult encounters far more manageable if you can handle the weight.
How to get it: Usually unlocked through end-game missions and late expeditions.
Mixing Sets for Maximum Effect
While full sets provide strong bonuses, combining individual pieces can sometimes create a better balance of stats. Many players tailor armour to their build by mixing heavy and light parts, maximising agility, critical damage or elemental resistances.
Comparison Table of Key Armour Sets
| Armour Set | Weight Class | Key Bonuses | Best For | How to Obtain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kingo | Medium | Final blow boost, backstab damage, melee damage | Balanced playstyle, versatile builds | Mid-game missions, enemy drops |
| Arrowsbane | Heavy | Strong damage reduction, defensive traits | Tank builds, high survivability | High-difficulty missions, elites |
| Yoshiie’s Birthright | Heavy | Extra durability, strong defence with decent offence | Heavy builds needing survivability | Late-game missions, elite drops |
| Warrior of the West | Medium | Balanced defence and mobility, critical damage | Players seeking balance | Mission rewards, boss drops |
| Tatenashi | Very Heavy | High resistances, physical and ranged damage reduction | Defensive fortress style | End-game missions and expeditions |
The Seven Swords Takeaway
There is no universal best armour in Nioh 2. Kingo offers the most flexibility, Arrowsbane and Yoshiie’s Birthright dominate for heavy armour users, Warrior of the West gives reliable balance, and Tatenashi is unmatched for pure defence. Choosing the right set comes down to your weapon, your build and the stage of the game.
