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As other video game companies struggle with canceled projects and studio closures, Capcom is on something of a roll at the moment. For starters, there’s a small game called Monster Hunter Wilds scheduled to drop at the end of February. And 2026 is looking promising, too, with Onimusha: Way of the Sword set to slash its way back into the limelight. And, following recent information on the upcoming samurai hack-and-slash game revealed during the Capcom Spotlight 2025 presentation, I can honestly say I’m more excited than ever for the series’ return. A significant reason for that is because Onimusha: Way of the Sword sounds more like a modern series reboot than a complete reinvention. And, honestly, I’m here for that.
Soul Focus
On February 4, Capcom held a “Spotlight” presentation to show off some of their upcoming games. Although we weren’t treated to any significant new gameplay footage of Onimusha: Way of the Sword, Producer Akihito Kadowaki and Director Satoru Nihei shared details about the latest entry in the sword-fighting action game.
Kadowaki described Way of the Sword in the following way:
In this game, we are taking Onimusha’s signature sword fighting action and dark fantasy elements, and using Capcom’s latest technology to make this new game as captivating as possible.
Obviously, there’s some marketing speak, there. In short, though, it sounds like Capcom is keeping the focus of Way of the Sword the same as it always has been. Since its inception way back in 2001 with Onimusha: Warlords, the franchise has been about infusing historical settings and figures with supernatural elements, guiding a warrior through visceral combat and puzzle challenges. Capcom is evidently sticking with the same formula that saw the series shift an impressive 8.7 million copies, but bringing in line with modern expectations using its propriety RE Engine.
This is further evidenced as Kadowaki continues to outline what Capcom considers Onimsuha: Way of the Sword‘s three core pillars. First, the game will focus on compelling characters. It will feature historic locations, presumably given a supernatural overhaul. And the game will place great emphasis on the sword-fighting action, as a sole samurai battles demons called the Genma. The protagonist will absorb the souls of his enemy to become stronger. All of this will sound very familiar to long-term fans of the series like myself.
That’s not to suggest, however, that Capcom is resting on its laurels with Way of the Sword. Far from it. In fact, the Spotlight reveals some interesting points of difference.
New Moves
Although the Onimusha series has always had a historical setting, previous entries took place in the Sengoku period (with a brief detour to 21st Century France in Onimusha 3). Onimusha: Way of the Sword, however, will take place in the slightly later Edo period.
It’s also notable that Capcom is promoting that game as taking place in Japan’s Kyoto. Once the capital of Japan, this picturesque city should provide a compelling location to explore. The previous entries in the series also interpreted real-life historical locations but were more limited to individual locations, such as Gifu Castle.
Capcom also introduces a new protagonist, indicating we’re leaving behind Samanosuke and Jubei’s stories, which makes sense given the period change. Most exciting of all, perhaps, is the promise of “enemies that are interesting more than just visually.” The series is well known for its creative creature designs. Defeating your foes, however, tended to come down to the same basic hack-and-slash approach. More dynamic enemies with their own skillsets and challenges are more in keeping with modern expectations.
A Familiar Stance
Despite some new features, it sounds like Capcom is keeping Onimusha: Way of the Sword very much in the Onimusha mold. It isn’t looking to reinvent the series. Rather, it is seeking to modernize it, using its powerful engine and creative prowess so apparent in titles like the Monster Hunter games. And honestly? I think that’s exactly the approach Capcom should be taking.
Onimusha is a series that has loyal, eager followers, like myself. But, let’s be realistic: the last, new mainline entry was released over 20 years ago. Many younger players won’t have a clue about the series. There’s no doubt, however, that Capcom was onto something great with Onimusha. There’s something just plain fun about slicing your way through demon hordes. The series has never aimed to be extremely difficult like the Souls games, but it can be challenging, particularly in boss encounters. And the director, Satoru Nihei, promises the same in Onimusha: Way of the Sword.
All the game has to do is bring the signature Onimusha fast, bloody, supernatural fun into the current generation. Fortunately, Capcom seems to know that.
