Capcom’s long-awaited revival of the Onimusha series is finally here with Onimusha: Way of the Sword. Available today on PlayStation 5, the Xbox Series, the Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store, the release revitalizes the franchise with its first new installment in 20 years.
Onimusha: Way of the Sword transports players to a twisted vision of Kyoto. Set during Japan’s Edo period, the game features real-life locations, local myths, and historical figures within a dark fantasy world. Among the cast of characters is protagonist Miyamoto Musashi, a fierce and striking young samurai, who today we now know as one of the most legendary figures in Japanese history.
In the game, Musashi’s path takes an unexpected turn after a run in with the demonic Genma. He soon finds himself armed with an Oni Gauntlet, a mystical artifact that grants abilities beyond human limits. While this power allows Musashi to slay these monsters from the underworld, he desires to fight with his strength alone. In his quest, he’ll face many gritty, blood-soaked brawls.
The gameplay revolves around satisfying sword-to-sword clashes with a deep arsenal of combat techniques. These maneuvers include parrying, deflecting, dodging, and more. The series’ signature gameplay features, Issen counterattacks and Soul Absorption, also return and add layers of decision making for players in the heat of battle.
Throughout the game, Musashi will also gain Oni Armaments that offer unique tools to turn the tide in his favor, and Oni Abilities that empower him to perform supernatural feats both in and out of battle. These powers also provide ways to explore previously unreachable areas and take on new challenges that await there, such as duels with formidable bosses. Together, these action elements deliver supreme swordplay combat and a gameplay experience that is uniquely Onimusha.
And for those “try before you buy” types, there’s a free public demo for Onimusha: Way of the Sword is also out now, where players can experience the game’s satisfying action while exploring an early slice of the story. The game’s demo is currently available via the PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, Nintendo eShop, Steam, and Epic Games Store.
If you need further convincing, check out Aaron’s review.