Onimusha: Way of the Sword Review: 5 Brutal Truths Every Gamer Should Know
Onimusha: Way of the Sword is finally returning the classic Capcom franchise to the spotlight, and the first reviews are giving gamers plenty to talk about. After more than two decades since the last mainline entry, the new samurai action game brings Miyamoto Musashi into a dark, demon-filled version of Edo-period Kyoto. The game releases on September 4, 2026, for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2 and PC.
But is this comeback actually worth the hype? Here are five things players should know before picking up the sword.
1. The Combat Is the Biggest Strength
The strongest part of Onimusha: Way of the Sword is undoubtedly its swordplay. Reviews consistently praise the demanding combat, particularly its parries, deflections and sword clashes. Battles reward timing and learning enemy patterns rather than simply attacking repeatedly.
2. The Boss Battles Can Be Brutally Difficult
Boss encounters are another major highlight. Several reviewers describe them as intense skill checks that force players to use the combat mechanics they have learned throughout the game. Tom’s Guide specifically praised the satisfaction of mastering difficult boss patterns and landing perfectly timed parries.
3. The Story Has a Dark Samurai Twist
The game follows legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi, who becomes equipped with the mystical Oni Gauntlet and faces Genma demons threatening Kyoto. The story mixes Japanese history, supernatural horror and fantasy rather than delivering a straightforward historical samurai adventure.
4. Not Everything Is Perfect
The reviews aren’t universally glowing. Some critics point to uneven difficulty, repetitive enemy encounters and sections that can slow the experience down. TechRadar also noted repeated boss battles and some easier encounters as weaknesses.
That makes the game more of a strong comeback with flaws than a completely flawless revival.
5. The Reviews Are Already Looking Strong
The early critical response is encouraging. Game Informer scored the game 8/10, while Shacknews gave it 9/10. Other reviews have similarly praised its combat, presentation and boss fights.
Is Onimusha: Way of the Sword Worth Playing?
Based on the early reviews, yes — especially for fans of challenging action games and samurai combat. Its strongest moments come when Musashi faces a powerful enemy and players must rely on precise timing rather than button-mashing.
The game isn’t perfect, but after such a long absence, Capcom appears to have delivered a comeback that understands what made Onimusha special while giving its combat a modern edge.
Final Verdict
Onimusha: Way of the Sword looks like a powerful return for Capcom’s classic samurai series. Its demanding combat and spectacular boss battles are the biggest reasons to play, while inconsistent difficulty and repetitive sections are the main drawbacks.
For gamers waiting for a challenging sword-fighting adventure, this is one September 2026 release worth watching.
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FAQ
1. When does Onimusha: Way of the Sword release?
It releases on September 4, 2026, for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2 and PC.
2. Is Onimusha: Way of the Sword difficult?
Yes. Its combat can be demanding, particularly during boss fights, where timing parries and learning attack patterns are important.
3. Who is the main character?
The protagonist is Miyamoto Musashi, the legendary Japanese swordsman, portrayed in the game with the likeness of Toshiro Mifune.
4. Is there a demo?
Yes. A free demo is available, including on PS5, and an expanded demo has also been released across platforms.
5. Is Onimusha: Way of the Sword worth buying?
Early reviews suggest it is particularly worthwhile for players who enjoy challenging sword combat, strong boss encounters and dark samurai action.