Short Answer

Before the finale, decide whether you only want the main clear or also want alternate endgame cleanup on the current save. If alternate cleanup matters, finish the chapter secret areas, complete the Chapter 3 side route tied to the Great Pagoda return, continue from the cleared save, and do not start New Game Plus until that work is done.

Spoiler-Light Ending Plan

  • Main clear: finish Chapter 6 and defeat the final boss.
  • Post-clear choice: choose Continue when you want to return to the current save for cleanup.
  • Alternate route prep: complete the secret areas from the earlier chapters and the Chapter 3 side route that feeds the late return point.
  • Late return: go back to the large Chapter 3 return area when the prerequisites are done.
  • Second finale pass: after the hidden route is complete, repeat the final boss sequence for the alternate outcome.

This section avoids explaining the outcome. It only gives the preparation order.

Pre-Finale Checklist

  • Chapter 1 secret area cleared or intentionally skipped.
  • Chapter 2 secret area cleared or intentionally skipped.
  • Chapter 4 secret area cleared, including optional bosses whose rewards can disappear.
  • Chapter 5 secret area cleared or intentionally skipped.
  • Chapter 3 late return point activated.
  • Chapter 3 side quest tied to the late return route completed if you want alternate cleanup.
  • Final build upgraded, including weapon, armor, gourd setup, Spirit, and transformation.
  • New Game Plus decision postponed until after ending cleanup.

What To Do After The First Clear

If you only want credits and a replay, you can start New Game Plus from the appropriate menu option after the clear. If you want alternate endgame cleanup now, continue instead. That keeps you on the current save so you can return to earlier chapters and finish the hidden route.

Do not start a new cycle just to “check later.” Once you enter a new cycle, route progress resets and the cleanup becomes a replay project.

Upgrade Priorities

Endgame preparation should improve the build you actually use. Finish a staff path only if it changes your final punish windows. Upgrade armor that keeps you alive through the final route. Carry medicine for the phase where attempts already break, not for the first panic hit.

If you are dying before the dangerous phase, spend time on route and pattern discipline. If you are reaching that phase consistently, consumables and final upgrades are worth spending.

Completion Timing

Handle secret-area bosses before their local finale when the route has lockout risk. Handle open-region optional bosses when they match a completion goal or material need. Handle meditation, chests, and minor collectibles after boss routes are stable, because small cleanup is more efficient when you can move without relearning combat.

Common Mistakes

  • Starting New Game Plus before deciding whether the current save still has ending work.
  • Reading full ending explanations when all you need is the prerequisite order.
  • Leaving secret-area chains half-finished and expecting the finale to clarify them.
  • Spending rare consumables on blind final attempts instead of planned late-phase attempts.
  • Upgrading several unused builds instead of finishing one final route setup.

FAQ

Can I prepare for endings without story spoilers?

Yes. Use prerequisite labels: secret areas, Chapter 3 side route, late return point, hidden route, and final boss repeat.

Should I finish every optional boss first?

No. Finish the optional bosses tied to secret areas, completion goals, or your build. Random cleanup can wait if it is only adding fatigue.

When is New Game Plus safe?

Start it after you are done with current-save ending cleanup, trophies you want now, and any optional bosses you do not want to replay toward.

Sources