In Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, unlocking and upgrading Prosthetic Tools is a fundamental aspect of enhancing your gameplay experience and combat strategy. Here is a detailed breakdown on how to obtain and upgrade these tools:

Obtaining Prosthetic Tools

1. Locating Tools:
– Prosthetic Tools can be found throughout the game’s world, acquired from specific locations, or dropped by particular bosses.
– For instance, the Loaded Shuriken can be located near the Outskirts Wall—Gate Path area, while the Shinobi Firecrackers can be purchased from a merchant after defeating a mini-boss in the same region.

2. Purchasing Tools:
– Some tools are available for purchase from merchants scattered across the game, which can be a strategic decision after encountering certain foes.

3. Installation:
– Once you have acquired a Prosthetic Tool, take it to the Sculptor located in the Dilapidated Temple. Here, the Sculptor will install the tool into your Shinobi Prosthetic Arm, enabling you to use it in combat.

Upgrading Prosthetic Tools

1. Unlocking Upgrades:
– To upgrade your tools, you must first defeat Gyoubu Oniwa, a boss character. Upon his defeat, you will obtain the Mechanical Barrel, which unlocks the ability to upgrade your tools at the Sculptor.

2. Required Materials and Currency:
– Upgrading your tools requires various materials and in-game currency, known as Sen. The necessary upgrade materials include:
– Scrap Iron
– Gunpowders
– Wax
– Adamantite Scrap
– Unique items
– The upgrades also require a significant amount of Sen, which you must collect as you progress through the game.

3. Upgrade Progression:
– The upgrade system follows a branching progression tree, where each upgrade builds upon previous upgrades. This system allows for strategic customization, enabling players to enhance their combat style according to their preferences.
– Each tool has a series of upgrades, but it’s essential to note that not all tools can be fully upgraded in a single playthrough due to the limited availability of certain materials, particularly Lapis Lazuli. A total of ten Lapis Lazuli items are required to fully upgrade all tools, while only six can be found in a single playthrough.

Summary

– Acquire Prosthetic Tools: Search the world, defeat bosses, or buy from merchants.
– Install Tools: Visit the Sculptor in the Dilapidated Temple after obtaining the tools.
– Unlock Upgrades: Defeat Gyoubu Oniwa to gain the ability to upgrade.
– Collect Materials: Gather necessary materials and Sen for upgrades.
– Upgrade Path: Follow a branching tree of upgrades; consider that not all tools can be fully upgraded in one playthrough.

This intricate system encourages players to make strategic decisions about which tools and upgrades to prioritize, enhancing the overall combat experience in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice.