What to know
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Retreat Master’s Armor is forged using a Smithing Text dropped by Kosaka Masanobu in the “A Fiery Invasion” mission at Mikatagahara.
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This set excels in mobility and survival, with bonuses reducing dodge Ki cost and boosting damage when unscathed.
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Forge the full set quickly after acquiring the text; farm materials from enemies in the same region for efficiency.
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Ideal for evasive playstyles, helping you retreat and counter effectively in tough battles.
In Nioh 3‘s challenging world the Retreat Master’s Armor set stands out for players mastering evasion and rear-guard tactics. This medium armor empowers you to dodge relentlessly while dishing out strong melee hits, perfect for surviving Crucible invasions and boss rushes.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Acquisition | Smithing Text from Kosaka Masanobu boss drop in “A Fiery Invasion” (Mikatagahara region). |
| Armor Type | Medium weight, focuses on Ki efficiency and unscathed damage. |
| Key Bonuses | Dodge Ki reduction, faster movement when ailing, melee damage boosts. |
| Forge Location | Any Blacksmith after story progression unlocks advanced forging. |
| Best For | Evasive builds, rear-guard strategies in multiplayer or solo. |
The “A Fiery Invasion” mission unfolds in the Mikatagahara region during The Battle of Mikatagahara story arc, a Warring States-era battlefield filled with Takeda camps, yokai ambushes, and Crucible events. You’ll navigate tents, hills, and fiery hazards leading to Yamagata Masakage first, then the Death Veil Crucible where Kosaka Masanobu awaits inside—often near a shrine or tent for quick boss access.
How to acquire the Smithing Text
Follow these steps to snag the essential Smithing Text from Kosaka Masanobu.
Step 1
Progress the main story to “The Battle of Mikatagahara – Part 2” and trigger the “A Fiery Invasion” Crucible mission after defeating Yamagata Masakage.
Step 2
Enter the Crucible in Mikatagahara, fight through Takeda forces and yokai to the boss arena, typically a tented hilltop area.
Step 3
Defeat Kosaka Masanobu—he summons fire waves and melee combos; dodge his lunges and punish openings with Ki-damaging attacks.
Step 4
Loot the Smithing Text: Retreat Master’s Armor from his drop pool (guaranteed on first clear, farmable via mission replay or New Game+).
How to forge the armor set
Once you have the Text, head to the Blacksmith.
Step 1
Visit the nearest Blacksmith (unlocked early via side quests for full features like Forge).
Step 2
Select “Forge,” navigate to Armor > Retreat Master’s set pieces (helmet, chest, arms, waist, legs).
Step 3
Gather materials: Dismantle similar rarity gear for Tamahagane, Wood, Ingots, Lacquer; higher rarity yields better results (Rare+ recommended).
Step 4
Pay gold cost and forge each piece—rarity depends on inputs; aim for Divine with fragments if available.
Step 5
Soul Match pieces to your highest-level gear and temper for optimal stats.
Retreat Master’s set bonuses
| Pieces | Bonus |
|---|---|
| 2 | Dodge Ki Consumption -6.9% |
| 3 | Faster Movement (Ailing) |
| 4 | Melee Damage (Unscathed) +? |
| 6 | Additional survival and damage perks (Commander of the Rearguard theme). |
Rewards
| Source | Rewards |
|---|---|
| Kosaka Masanobu (Boss) | Smithing Text: Retreat Master’s Armor (100% first clear), Amrita, random gear/materials. |
| Mission Completion | Bonus Amrita, collectibles, side quest unlocks (e.g., Sakai Tadatsugu assist). |
| Forged Set Piece (Rare) | Medium armor with base defenses; customizable perks via Blacksmith. |
| Full 6-Piece Set | Activated bonuses for evasive mastery; equip for “Armor’s Real Value” trophy progress. |
Temper pieces for Ki recovery and status resistance to synergize with bonuses. Pair with weapons like Tonfa or Kusarigama for quick dodges, and use clan skills from rear-guard focused families. Farm Mikatagahara elites for matching accessories in New Game+ for faster full-set completion.
Armed with this guide, you’ll forge the Retreat Master’s Armor swiftly, turning retreats into devastating counters across Nioh 3’s eras.
