Capcom is reviving its beloved samurai action-adventure franchise with the announcement of Onimusha: Way of the Sword</>, set to launch globally in 2026. This major reveal took place during The Game Awards 2024, where fans were treated to a brief but exciting trailer showcasing the game’s intriguing new direction.
The upcoming title marks the first full entry since Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams</> graced consoles back in 2006, and Capcom has promised modern updates to its celebrated gameplay mechanics. The series originally debuted on the PlayStation 2 over two decades ago, capturing the hearts of players with its unique blend of swordplay, supernatural elements, and historical storytelling set against the backdrop of Japan’s Sengoku period.
Fans can expect familiar features such as soul absorption—essentially collecting the energy of defeated foes—alongside thrilling combat sequences. The fresh reveal shows the protagonist, who bears similarities to one of the franchise’s defining heroes, Samanosuke, battling foes reminiscent of samurai zombies with elegant and brutal swordplay.
While the reveal trailer runs just under two minutes, it offers tantalizing glimpses at the gameplay. Players can see the character engaging with various supernatural monsters, performing dynamic finishers, and utilizing the Oni powers to absorb glowing orbs post-defeat. This gameplay loop of combat and resource collection is sure to please diehard Onimusha fans. The return of iconic mechanics from the series, including the signature counterattacks known as "Issen," resonates deeply with the franchise’s legacy.
A significant shift is on the horizon as the game transitions from the established fixed camera angles to fully embraced 3D combat, delivering what Capcom describes as "fluid and cinematic" experiences. This change is reflective of the broader evolution within the gaming arena, vying to position Way of the Sword</> alongside other successful samurai and action titles like Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice</> and the Nioh</> series.
Capcom has hinted at its ambitious plans to reintroduce the Onimusha universe to both newer audiences and longtime fans who have longed for the franchise’s return. With previous remasters and projects, such as the 2018 re-release of Onimusha: Warlords</>, Capcom appears ready to reignite interest using enhanced visuals and fresh storytelling set during the early Edo period—a historical time characterized by relative peace, which soon becomes tainted by the sinister return of the Genma, the dark forces always lurking within the series.
The reimagined setting retrieves the franchise’s core elements but applies modern technological advancements, promising impressive graphics and polished mechanics. Inspirations from past titles continue to shape what players can expect, evidently clear through the aesthetics mirroring the recent Resident Evil</> remakes. This revitalized vision demonstrates Capcom's commitment to honoring what made the original games captivating, all the same paving the way for new narratives and characters.
The excitement around Onimusha: Way of the Sword</> at The Game Awards has sparked conversations among gamers about the future of classic property revivals. With industry trends leaning toward high-quality remakes and sequels of beloved games, Capcom’s return to its Onimusha roots looks promising and timely. Given the success stories of recent revivals—especially titles under the Resident Evil banner—many wonder if Onimusha</> can achieve similar feats.
The upcoming title is expected to launch on major gaming platforms, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam. Yet, the discussion remains as to whether Way of the Sword</> will feature on the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, poised to enter the gaming scene around the same time.
With anticipation building around Capcom's first entry of Onimusha for nearly two decades, it stands to reason fans are ready to once again venture through Kyoto's realms filled with dark fantasy elements, compelling conflicts, and exquisite gameplay. Way of the Sword</> is not just another game, but potentially marks the revival of one of the classic franchises, renewed interest, and excitement among both veteran gamers and newcomers alike.
So, as the 2026 release date approaches, Capcom fans should stay tuned. Will this be the new chapter they’ve long waited for? Will it live up to the high stakes and stories told on the original console? The answers will come eventually, as the sword’s edge sharpens for one of video gaming’s storied series. For now, enthusiasts can bask in the nostalgia of what has been and look forward to what’s next on the horizon.
