Fear not, samurai masochists: Onimusha: Way of the Sword keeps its challenge
Last month, Rock Paper Shotgun tested an extended preview of Onimusha: Way of the Sword. Despite the game's heavy emphasis on visual effects and cinematic presentation, it has not lost its primary identity: a challenging combat system. Capcom has successfully adapted the spirit of the 2006 PlayStation 2 original for modern standards.
While the action slasher genre is currently crowded (especially with Nioh 3 holding the throne), Onimusha offers intriguing tricks. The fixed camera angles have been replaced by a behind-the-back view, but the battles still possess a level of intricacy far beyond typical action games.
The protagonist is Musashi, modeled after legendary actor Toshiro Mifune. Capcom spent two years securing rights to his likeness. The character exudes confidence and swagger while appearing resigned to the endless days of nursing a sake bottle after battling yokai.
The combat system blends Soulslike mechanics with the cool factor of games like Ninja Gaiden. The parry window is much more forgiving than in Sekiro or Nioh, making it accessible to newcomers. However, the core mechanic remains the Issen technique: a counterattack delivered just before an enemy strikes, potentially triggering an insta-kill. Capcom even advertises the possibility of playing through the entire game relying solely on Issen kills.
The environment is highly interactive, reminiscent of early Havok Physics experiments. Players can knock enemies into hazards or use carts as makeshift shields against arrow volleys. Bosses like Rasho-gan require expert timing and can put up a fight comparable to those in Sekiro.
Onimusha: Way of the Sword releases on September 4 for PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch 2. For players whose reflexes may have dulled over the intervening years, Capcom has included a "Story Mode" difficulty setting.
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