Onimusha: Way of the Sword Delivers Masterclass Samurai Action in Capcom's Franchise Reboot

Capcom has delivered a major revival of its long-dormant franchise with Onimusha: Way of the Sword, functioning as a complete reboot of the series that diverges significantly from past entries while retaining core thematic elements. The game launches on September 3, 2026, priced at $70 / £60, and has drawn early praise for its polished combat mechanics, lavishly animated cutscenes, and standout boss encounters.

Set in a historically influenced version of feudal Kyoto overrun by monstrous Genma escaping from hell, the story follows legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi. After being struck down in the prologue, Musashi is resurrected by a mysterious spirit and fused with a magical gauntlet that allows him to battle the demonic horde by absorbing their souls. Musashi is portrayed using the digital likeness of legendary actor Toshiro Mifune, bringing an expressive and brash personality to the role alongside supporting characters like the spirit Shizuka and poet Lady Murasaki.

Reviewers have lauded the title's weighty, precise swordplay, which requires careful parrying, stamina management, and precise timing during encounters with demanding bosses. While the core combat and cinematic presentation have received widespread acclaim, some critics noted pacing issues stemming from a crafting and upgrade economy tied to hub exploration in Kyoto, as well as lengthy runtime spanning roughly 25 to 35 hours. The game includes multiple difficulty settings, such as an accessible 'Story' mode with optional button prompts, while the brutally difficult 'Carnage' mode and New Game+ are unlocked after completing the campaign.