Don't pay attention to all the haters, a lot are just hopping on the hate train with this game. It isn't perfect and is no Nioh 3, but it is a fun and worthwhile game to play, better enjoyed with friends though.
Lets start with the good:
The combat feels tighter and more refined than Nioh 2, a little more fluid and the counter system I enjoy, I feel it adds a good dynamic to the game and is satisfying to pull off.
The character creation system gets top marks as usual with the details you can go into.
The visuals are stunning, the scenery with the valleys, the cherry trees, the greenery etc is just something to pause and admire!
And lastly I am glad they streamlined the stat system where you level up by adding points into one of five elements of Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water where you can learn skills the more points you put into said element.
Now the bad:
The obstacles you need to jump can feel clunky, like you feel you made it only to get dragged through a weird hitbox.
The computer intelligence can be a bit on the dense side with their line of sight questionably short.
And lastly I'm a bit disappointed by the lack of imagination with the weapons. I have known Koei's Dynasty games for a long while and I know they can do better, I was at least hoping for a Sanjegun or nun-chuck. The weapons they have do their job, just wish there was better variety like Nioh 2.
However the pros outweigh the cons. It is a fun game and does provide a good challenge and the visuals alone are worth playing it, along with the more open and explorative design of the levels. I can see myself returning to this game for a New Game Plus challenge but not sure with the lack of creative weapons if I will be willing to repeat it too many times.