As a dedicated fan of the Onimusha series for over two decades, my enthusiasm for new releases had waned, convinced that the series had reached its end. That was until the recent announcement of Way of the Sword. Prior to this new game, Capcom initiated a wave of Onimusha-related releases, much to my delight, to ensure that long-time fans remained engaged and new players were introduced to the franchise. Following the Netflix anime series and the remaster of the first game, it is now time for the second game to shine.
Thanks to Capcom’s early access code, I was able to dive into the first few hours of the game, rekindling my long-lost nostalgia. Having thoroughly enjoyed the remaster of the first installment, I am thrilled to report that the sequel promises an equally exhilarating experience.
The first striking feature of the remaster is the remarkable enhancement of the graphics. This isn’t just a minor resolution uplift; the graphics have been so expertly refined that the game now resembles a title from the PS3 era. Even my graphically discerning friend, who watched me play, echoed this sentiment. This graphical leap is truly commendable for a game originating from the PS2 era.
One of the most significant updates is the inclusion of the original Japanese voiceover, a feature I longed for when I initially experienced the game with only English dubbing available. The authentic Japanese audio profoundly enriches the game’s atmosphere. Additionally, the remaster introduces modern analog controls, replacing the traditional tank controls. This adjustment markedly enhances the gameplay experience, although nostalgic players can still opt for the original control scheme.
Another welcome improvement is the addition of an auto-save feature, functioning as a modern checkpoint system. This means you won’t have to repeatedly navigate the same corridors after encountering challenging segments. Furthermore, the mini-games, once unlocked at the game’s completion, are now accessible directly through the Gallery mode, a detail I had almost forgotten. While there is much more to explore in the gallery, I was asked to avoid spoilers, so I’ll leave those surprises for you to discover.
Despite the focus on enhancements, it’s worth noting that the original game was crafted with such quality that it remains timeless. Playing it again, especially with the new improvements, is an unparalleled joy. This remaster is set to be one of my most cherished gaming experiences of the year. I eagerly anticipate similar high-quality remasters of the third game and Dawn of Dreams.
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