Everyone thought Capcom would make history with its first souls-like game, but the new Onimusha says no to ‘modernisms’. Onimusha: Way of the Sword is much more traditional than it may seem, so it will be a focused game with demanding combat, yes, but nothing more.

The Onimusha saga is set to return in 2026 with Way of the Sword—and this is no ordinary Capcom release: it marks the first mainline entry in two decades. As the industry has transformed over the last twenty years, many assumed the new Japanese action game would embrace today’s trends with an open world and souls-like mechanics. But director Satoru Nihei is adamant about honoring Onimusha’s roots.

One of the most critical decisions in development was casting Miyamoto Musashi as the protagonist, modeled after legendary actor Toshiro Mifune. According to Nihei (speaking to Automaton), it took two years to secure rights to Mifune’s likeness. During this time, the team set out to craft a deliberately classic experience. “This isn’t an open world, and it’s not a ‘die and try again’ souls-like,” Nihei said.

Onimusha: Way of the Sword Is Neither Open World Nor Souls-Like

To emphasize this classic approach, Way of the Sword introduces two core mechanics: Deflect and Redirect. These let players take a tactical approach in combat—especially against bosses. The system revolves around wearing down an enemy’s stamina bar, opening the door for a new Break Issen move, a modern twist on the series’ signature Issen attack. It’s a system that adds strategic weight to every duel and truly rewards sharp timing.

Even with new ideas, Capcom isn’t turning its back on what made the franchise legendary. The classic Issen attack—which can wipe out minor foes in one slash—returns with all its precision intact. The Oni Glove and its soul-absorbing powers are back, keeping Onimusha’s unique identity alive. And while technically a reboot, Nihei insists the goal is to appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Perhaps most striking is the structure: Way of the Sword rejects open-world design for a linear narrative and carefully crafted environments. The developers believe this preserves the pacing and moody atmosphere that have always defined Onimusha. Their ambition? To merge the best of the series’ legacy with contemporary sensibilities, without ever losing its essence. The game is slated for release in 2026, with the exact date still under wraps.

Source: 3djuegos