Capcom has revived its Onimusha franchise with the release of Onimusha: Way of the Sword, marking the first new mainline entry in the series in two decades. The game, which debuted on June 24, 2024, is available across multiple platforms, including PlayStation 5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC.

Onimusha initially launched in 2001 with Onimusha: Warlords, a title blending historical Japanese figures and settings with supernatural elements. The series gained a cult following for its combination of action-adventure gameplay and period detail, distinguishing itself from other Capcom franchises such as Devil May Cry. Despite early success, including rapid platinum sales for the original game, the franchise appeared dormant after the 2006 release of Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams.

The renewed entry transports players to a dark fantasy interpretation of Kyoto during the Edo period. Players assume the role of Miyamoto Musashi, a fictionalized version of the historic samurai, who is killed by a group of demons called the Genma. Musashi’s journey continues after death when he is resurrected with the aid of a mysterious figure and equipped with the Oni Gauntlet, a weapon that absorbs the souls of defeated enemies to increase his power. Alongside Ono no Takamura, another character wielding an Oni Gauntlet, Musashi must defend Kyoto from the Genma and protect the Hellgate, a barrier between Hell and the mortal world.

The game’s combat system represents a significant departure from previous installments, shifting from hectic button-mashing to a more deliberate and strategic approach. Players must balance light and heavy attacks, as well as prioritize blocking and parrying to exploit enemy vulnerabilities. The combat is fluid, with a wide variety of animations that help maintain a sense of novelty during encounters. The inclusion of a slow-motion mechanic allows for targeted attacks on staggered foes, adding a tactical layer to battles.

Technological improvements are notable, as Onimusha: Way of the Sword utilizes an improved version of Capcom’s proprietary RE Engine. This has resulted in highly detailed graphics and lifelike character animations, including nuanced facial expressions even during fast-paced combat sequences.

While the main gameplay and presentation have been praised, some criticisms have been noted. Side quests reportedly become repetitive, and players must engage in extensive enemy grinding to upgrade Musashi’s abilities. Nonetheless, the overall reception suggests the game successfully reintroduces the series to modern audiences while retaining the atmospheric and action elements that earned Onimusha its dedicated fanbase.

Onimusha: Way of the Sword is priced at £64.99 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox versions, and £59.99 for Nintendo Switch 2 and PC. The release marks a noteworthy return for a franchise that has been absent from the gaming landscape for nearly 20 years.