Toshiko Essence is one of the main gameplay mechanics of Toshiko Smackdown. It is gained by damaging opponents. Different attacks gain the user different amounts of Toshiko Essence. Gaining a certain amount of it allows the user to use their Smack Attack, an immensely powerful attack that can score several kills, depending on the Smack Attack and the user's skill.
Being hit by a stage hazard or an item will cause you to lose Toshiko Essence in the form of glowing white spheres, which can be picked up by touching them. Toshiko Essence spheres can also be knocked out of a player if they are thrown by another player.