Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice offers a pretty stiff challenge right from the get-go. However, there is a way to up the game’s difficulty even more. To trigger Sekiro’s optional hard mode modifier you’ll need to find a specific item called the Bell Demon. In this guide, we’ll explain where and how the Bell Demon can be found.
Sekiro: Locating the Bell Demon Item
The trigger for the Bell Demon is found in Sekiro’s Senpou Temple region. Once you reach the long bridge where you fight the Armored Warrior, turn around and look for an area covered in pinwheels. Just to the left is a spot where you can drop down along with a grapple point.
Proceed along a wooden walkway up to another cliff edge. If you look down you’ll spot another cliff you can jump and grab onto. Shimmy along that second cliff edge to reach a shrine with a large bell and a Sculptor’s Idol.
When you ring the large bell, two things will happen. First, you’ll trigger the hard mode modifier by receiving the Sinister Burden effect. Sinister Burden makes all enemies (including bosses) harder, but also increases the amount of Sen and XP they drop. Ringing the bell also adds the titular Bell Demon item to your inventory.
If you ever want to disable the Sinister Burden, you can just use the Bell Demon from your inventory. Regaining the Sinister Burden effect requires ringing the large bell again, but that’s what the Sculptor’s Idol is for. The Sinister Burden effect will persist through death so don’t worry about having to make constant trips to the bell. The only way Sinister Burden goes away is if you purposefully use the Bell Demon item.
It’s worth mentioning that there are other ways to up Sekiro’s difficulty. Completing the game and starting a New Game+ run also bolsters enemy difficulty. In New Game+ you can even refuse Kuro’s charm at the beginning of the game. Doing so ups the amount of damage you take and makes your guard less effective.
For more Sekiro guide content, we’ve also got a guide on how to cure the Dragonrot ailment.