Been enjoying this much more second time around so progressed a little bit further. Think using the spear helps as it's got a great standard move set in mid stance.
Did "Kanbei and the Overlord" and it was as frustrating as I remembered. Nearly broke a controller at one point! 😤
Now halfway into next main mission, just before first mid-mission boss I think. Will try a few times by myself before bringing in help. If I complete then I can drop in on others games to help out on Monday or team up for full side missions.