5 Things to Do After Beating Katana ZERO

Katana ZERO doesn’t end when the credits do. Like its protagonist’s fractured memories, the game lingers—a neon-soaked enigma of unanswered questions, hidden blades, and time-bending possibilities. Whether you’ve just sliced through your first playthrough or are still dissecting its cryptic therapy sessions, the truth is clear: this isn’t over.

1. Speedrun the Game for Gold

After completing Katana ZERO, Speedrun Mode unlocks on the main menu. This mode challenges you to finish the game as fast as possible, with tiers like Gold (under 29 minutes), Silver (under 35), and Bronze (under 45).

To hit Gold, skip cutscenes (hold the skip button), abuse Chronos slow-mo for risky skips, and memorize enemy patterns in chaotic levels like the Club or Prison. The Prism Sword, with its rainbow trail, is your reward for Gold—a flashy tool for future runs.

2. Survive Hard Mode’s Brutal Upgrades

Hard Mode remixes the entire game with new enemies, redesigned levels, and deadlier bosses. For example, the Dragon Hotel adds laser grids, while the DJ boss’s attacks sync to the soundtrack’s beat. You’ll also face turret ambushes in the Mansion and faster enemy spawns.

Completing Hard Mode earns the “Masochist” achievement and unlocks the Sword of Masters, a blade that kills enemies (and you) in one hit. Access it via the Speedrun menu.

3. Unlock and Fight the Psychiatrist (Hidden Boss)

Missed the secret boss? To fight the Psychiatrist:

1. During the second interrogation, answer “I’m not a killer” followed by “I’m a samurai.”
2. In your final conversation, refuse medication three times.
3. Reload your save, and his office door will open.

This surreal battle mirrors your moves—he deflects, dashes, and throws knives. Time your counters carefully, and defeat him to earn the Phoenix Edge, a fiery sword that burns foes.

4. Hunt All 22 Achievements

Katana ZERO’s achievements range from simple to punishing. Key ones include:

• “Untouchable”: Beat any level without taking damage (use the Prison level for easy enemies).
• “Ghost”: Clear a level without killing anyone (try the Apartment level).
• “Speed Demon”: Finish the game in under 35 minutes.

Many require multiple playthroughs, especially with choices that alter dialogue and endings. Check our full achievement guide for step-by-step unlocks.

5. Collect All 5 Secret Swords

Beyond your default katana, five hidden swords change gameplay:

• Prism Sword: Unlocked via Speedrun Gold. Adds a rainbow trail but no stat changes.
• Sword of Masters: Earned by beating Hard Mode. Kills enemies (and you) in one hit.
• Savant Knife: Found in a hidden Mansion room. Faster swings but shorter range.
• Claymore Prototype: Complete all side quests. Slow swings with explosive damage.
• Phoenix Edge: Defeat the Psychiatrist. Leaves fire trails that burn enemies.

Each sword offers unique playstyles, perfect for challenge runs or revisiting the story.

Katana ZERO’s slick combat and mind-bending story reward dedication. Whether you’re chasing golden times, secret blades, or cryptic plot threads, this guide ensures you’ll dominate the post-game. Now get back out there, samurai—the Pharmacist’s watching.

Got tips or theories? Share them in the comments below!