Detailed Review of Onimusha (Original Series)

Introduction

Onimusha is a beloved action-adventure series developed by Capcom that began on the PlayStation 2 in 2001. The series combines elements of historical Japanese settings with supernatural horror, fast-paced combat, and puzzle-solving. Here’s a comprehensive review of the original Onimusha series:

Onimusha: Warlords (2001)

The game that started it all introduced players to samurai Samanosuke Akechi, who battles demonic forces called “Genma” to rescue Princess Yuki from the resurrected warlord Nobunaga Oda.

Gameplay

• Combat utilized a unique system where defeating enemies released their souls, which could be absorbed to power up weapons.
• Featured pre-rendered backgrounds with fixed camera angles (similar to Resident Evil)
• Included a mixture of sword combat, puzzles, and exploration
• Relatively short campaign (5-6 hours) but highly replayable

Technical Aspects

• Impressive visuals for its time with detailed character models
• Solid voice acting (especially in the Japanese audio)
• Atmospheric sound design and memorable soundtrack

Strengths

• Introduced a fresh action-combat system with strategic elements
• Strong Japanese historical setting with supernatural elements
• Tight, responsive controls

Weaknesses

• Fixed camera angles sometimes created visibility issues
• Short main campaign
• Some awkward translations in the Western release

Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny (2002)

 

The sequel shifted to a new protagonist, Jubei Yagyu, facing the demonic Nobunaga five years after the first game.

Gameplay

• Expanded on the soul-collecting system with more weapon and item upgrades
• Introduced a relationship system with supporting characters
• Added more varied combat scenarios and enemy types
• Improved puzzle design

Technical Aspects

• Enhanced graphics over the original
• More detailed environments
• Better animations during combat sequences

Strengths

 

• More refined gameplay mechanics
• Engaging character relationship systems affecting gameplay
• Expanded story with a stronger narrative

Weaknesses

• Some pacing issues in the middle sections
• Occasional difficulty spikes
• Similar camera issues as the first game
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Onimusha 3: Demon Siege (2004)

The third main entry brought Samanosuke back and introduced a time-travel element, sending him to modern-day Paris while French officer Jacques Blanc is transported to feudal Japan.

Gameplay

• Moved to fully 3D environments with more dynamic camera control
• Introduced dual protagonists with different fighting styles
• Enhanced combat system with more fluid combos
• Featured cameo by actor Jean Reno as Jacques

 

Technical Aspects

• Significant graphical upgrade with more detailed character models
• Motion capture technology for more realistic movements
• Improved cinematic sequences

Strengths

• More ambitious storytelling with the time-travel element
• Greater variety in environments and gameplay
• Improved camera system reducing frustration

Weaknesses

• Some fans felt the Paris sections strayed too far from the series’ roots
• Uneven difficulty curve
• Less puzzle focus compared to previous entries

Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams (2006)

The fourth major instalment featured a new protagonist, Soki, and was set 16 years after Onimusha 3.

Gameplay

• Introduced an AI companion system with four supporting characters
• Expanded combat with more complex move sets and abilities
• Featured longer campaign with more side content
• Added more RPG elements with equipment and skill trees

Technical Aspects

• Pushed the PS2 hardware with improved visuals
• Longer cutscenes and more narrative focus
• Enhanced animation quality

Strengths

• The most robust gameplay in the series
• More remarkable character development and storytelling
• A significant amount of content and replayability

Weaknesses

• Less focused than previous entries
• Some tedious backtracking
• Companion AI had occasional issues

Legacy and Impact

The Onimusha series was highly influential in the early 2000s:

• Sold over 8 million copies across all titles
• Pioneered the blend of historical Japanese settings with action gameplay
• Influenced later titles like Nioh and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
• Demonstrated the potential for mature, story-driven action games with cultural depth

Conclusion

The original Onimusha series represents an important chapter in action-adventure gaming, combining tight combat mechanics with atmospheric storytelling and cultural elements from Japanese history. While some aspects haven’t aged perfectly (fixed cameras, certain puzzle designs), the core gameplay loop and unique aesthetic continue to resonate with fans. The planned revival with remasters and new entries speaks to the enduring appeal of the franchise.