So I am really enjoying Nioh 2, is this worth getting?

[Vakula]

Or is it just a massive step back from Nioh 2? Is there any reason to play 1?

[xr ඞ]

It's a step back from Nioh 2 in terms of mechanics and graphics, but otherwise it's still the same gameplay and concept. You won't have access to any yokai abilities, and instead of Yokai Shift you'll have Living Weapon which is just an overpowered version of it basically.

I generally prefer Nioh 1 due to the level design and more enjoyable end-game, so I've gone back to it after playing Nioh 2 without problem. I'd say it's worth checking out if you want more Nioh.

Nioh 2 is a prequel so you'll at least see the story unfold from procedural view. ;)

[Senki]

It's a pretty big step back but still enjoyable

You will see a lot of assets including enemies being basically identical to Nioh 2, so it's hard to not feel like you're just playing an inferior version with nothing special to offer.

I think it's still worth playing just to see the content that is different if nothing else, this game has some pretty cool bosses. I like some of them more than Nioh 2 bosses.

[Hakimoto]

It is different. It is not as easy as Nioh 2. For one thing, Your spirit doesn't auto summon in boss rooms. You can't summon blue revs to help you. However, you can abuse systems in Nioh 1 much more and much harder.

[Tikus Tycoon]

Yes

[Medusahead]

You're missing the first half of the story if you don't play Nioh 1