Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny Preview – A Timeless Classic That Ages Like Fine Wine

The Timeless Appeal of Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny Remaster

Although the Onimusha franchise may not garner the same acclaim as other CAPCOM titles, it undeniably holds a special place as one of the publisher’s most distinctive series. Originally conceived as an innovative interpretation of the gameplay style popularized by the Resident Evil series, Onimusha has undergone considerable evolution, particularly evident with the release of Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams. This latest installment diverged from the established fixed camera mechanics that differentiate it from most action-adventure games of its era.

Exciting Developments in the Franchise

With the forthcoming title, Onimusha: Way of the Sword, CAPCOM embraces the nostalgia of fans by remastering Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny for contemporary gaming platforms. This remaster translates the original experience into modern formats while enhancing visuals and incorporating minor updates that are unlikely to disrupt the classic experience. This commitment to authenticity is commendable, especially given how remarkably the game has aged.

A Nostalgic Journey through Familiar Territory

Returning to Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny, after over two decades, is a nostalgic experience. The remaster evokes fond memories of my original playthrough on the PlayStation 2, reinforcing how much of the game’s charm lies in its awkward yet endearing English dialogue. The idiosyncratic voice acting and unique mechanics provide a sense of familiarity that both seasoned players and newcomers will appreciate. The gameplay has retained its appeal, suggesting that even those new to the series will find enjoyment in its offerings.

A Blend of Horror and Action

Much like its predecessor, Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny stands out as a unique action-adventure title. It strikes an engaging balance between the survival horror elements of the early Resident Evil games and the heightened action of the original Devil May Cry, which was born from concepts associated with the Resident Evil series. Players step into the shoes of Jubei Yagyu, tasked with recovering five mystical orbs that shield humanity from demonic threats. His ultimate goal is to confront Nobunaga Oda, a historic figure turned demon lord. Throughout his journey, Jubei interacts with various allies, whose personal narratives evolve based on player choices, adding depth to the gameplay experience.

Engaging Gameplay Mechanics

The adventure in Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny captivates players from the outset. The gameplay seamlessly merges simple puzzle-solving reminiscent of the Resident Evil series with dynamic, fast-paced combat. Jubei’s agility and combat techniques, which include the thunder katana Buraitou and the ice spear Hyoujin-yari, enhance the engaging battle system against a variety of foes, from ordinary humans to formidable demons. While the fixed camera angles can sometimes hinder visibility during intense boss fights, this quirk contributes to the game’s nostalgic charm. The remaster introduces a significant improvement, allowing players to switch weapons seamlessly and reducing interruptions caused by menu navigation in the original PS2 version.

Perfect Timing for Reintroducing a Classic

The remaster of Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny arrives at an ideal moment, poised to rekindle old memories for loyal fans while also serving as an introductory passage for new players. It highlights the distinctive qualities that define the Onimusha series. Players can expect to join Jubei Yagyu in his battle against Nobunaga Oda when the remaster launches on May 23rd for PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.

Tested on PC. Preview access provided by the publisher.

Source & Images