Yeah I agree. I liked how some mechanics changed like backstab fishing was less of a thing, the jumping attack was actually effective and I liked how different ultra great weapons had different parry/backstab multipliers. Other stuff though, like only having cracked orbs, the crazy quick heals, seemingly random rules for poise and overall floaty/ghost-like hitboxes made me not like it much.
As for the katana's, if I recall correctly the Uchi is slightly more powerful despite the Blacksteel having higher stat requirements. But don't pin me down on it![]()