Guarding drains Sha-Chi; swapping primary weapons restores it. Attacks build Sha-Chi Essence for Power Surge. These are separate resources.[1]

On this page
Read the exchange, not just your health
The Epic hands-on describes Sha-Chi costs for heavy attacks and guarding. It is a pre-release report, so use the current in-game tutorial to confirm the exact rules for your equipped weapon.[2]
Controller inputs described in PlayStation coverage
The covered PS5 layout uses Square/Triangle to attack, L1 to guard/parry, R1 to dodge, D-pad left to swap and L2 for Power Surge. Check your selected layout.[1]
A short practice routine
- Observe
In an encounter you can safely repeat, watch the meter while guarding before trying a long combo.
- Compare
Compare your meter before and after a weapon swap. Follow the on-screen tutorial for any restrictions.
- Separate resources
Identify the Essence indicator before spending a surge; do not assume every combat meter is interchangeable.
Sources & verification
Facts last checked Oct 31, 2026. Checking a source does not change the page’s update date.
- How boss weapons transform combat and exploration Phil Hornshaw / PlayStation Blog · reference · Published 2026-10-28 · Checked Oct 31, 2026
Platform editorial coverage. Playveylo has not independently played or benchmarked the game.
Original language: en - Hands-on and interview: kung fu spectacle and Soulslike challenge Alan Wen / Epic Games Store · reference · Published 2026-10-09 · Checked Oct 31, 2026
Pre-release first-chapter hands-on and developer interview. Preview observations are not a final-build guarantee.
Original language: en
Page history
Published after checking the listed primary sources and attributed reporting; exact game build remains unconfirmed.
A source and a little context help us keep this guide useful.