Preview: Way of the Sword Reforges Onimusha for a New PS5 Era

Is it unfair to liken Onimusha: Way of the Sword to Dark Souls?

Most likely, but after observing Capcom’s latest character-driven action adventure for about 20 minutes, we can’t help but delve into FromSoftware comparisons.

The fact is that titles like Elden Ring have exerted such a massive impact on the genre that even this classic from the PS2 era cannot evade its grasp.

Thus, watching the protagonist perform circular movements around a locked-on opponent in an intense duel does evoke analogies to FromSoftware’s recent successes, even though the developer seems to be taking a distinct path this time around.

It’s important to note that it will have been 20 extensive years since the last true Onimusha when Way of the Sword makes its debut, making this feel akin to a gentle reboot of the series.

Superhero samurai Miyamoto Musashi – inspired by the iconic Japanese actor Toshiro Mifune – has arrived in Kyoto to demonstrate that he has no peers in his swordsmanship.

Onimusha has consistently blended historical facts with mythology, a trend that continues here: the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, where much of the action unfolds, is swarming with ghastly foes known as Genma, and your mission is to eliminate them.

This is where Capcom’s signature gameplay fluidity becomes evident: Musashi is capable of blocking from any angle, even from behind, with seamless animations enhancing each moment with remarkable controller responsiveness.

In one instance, we observed the protagonist redirect a foe’s arrow into another enemy, resulting in considerable damage. Environmental dangers, such as explosives and flames, also infuse excitement into the battles.

Although we didn’t physically grip the controller, we appreciated the fluidity of the combat mechanics. The hero can defend from every direction, even from behind, with polished animations seemingly enhancing every frame with a high degree of controller feedback.

As in previous titles, you can absorb souls to recuperate health, replenish skills, and garner XP. However, consuming these beforehand is essential to prevent a Genma from doing so, adding a strategic layer to the combat system while you contemplate the optimal order of actions.

The most significant takeaway from the demonstration is how cinematic everything appears, in the most favorable sense.

One encounter with a rival gauntlet user named Sasaki Ganryu left us in awe, thanks to its choreographed rhythms which looked truly spectacular. The RE Engine is once again performing impressively here.

Beyond all the combat, you can anticipate some light puzzle-solving: one segment we observed featured Musashi utilizing his Omi Vision to perceive concealed spiritual elements, which he needed to engage with to progress. It’s straightforward, but we anticipate it will evolve in complexity.

Clearly, in a hands-off demonstration, we’re merely scratching the surface of Way of the Sword here, but it all appears impeccably executed. While there might be few surprises thus far, Stellar Blade demonstrated last year that there’s ample room in the market for a fast-paced action title.

The dark fantasy art style invites comparisons to titles like Dark Souls, as does the presentation of the combat on screen, but we expect less wall-bashing and more exhilaration from this grand endeavor.

And to be honest, after nearly 20 years, we are more than prepared to re-enter the realm of Onimusha once again.

What are your opinions on Onimusha: Way of the Sword? Have you been eagerly anticipating a fresh installment in this illustrious series? Will this mark your first encounter with the franchise, or are you a dedicated supporter? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.