Onimusha: Way of the Sword Won't Be Open-World Or Souls-Like, Promises Director

Onimusha: Way of the Sword Won't Be Open-World Or Souls-Like, Promises Director - GameSpot

The director of Onimusha: Way of the Sword has very strong opinions about maintaining the type of gameplay the franchise is known for.

gamespot.com

Onimusha: Way of the Sword is sticking to its roots, not chasing open-world ambitions or punishing “souls-like” mechanics. Director Satoru Nihei says the team’s goal is simple: keep that satisfying blade-clash action front and center, make deflects drain boss stamina for a flashy Break Issen finish, and welcome both veteran slashers and newcomers alike. Oh, and yes—the classic soul-absorption ability is back.

This new standalone tale drops you in the sandals of Miyamoto Musashi (modeled on Toshiro Mifune) and doesn’t tie into past games or the Netflix anime. Look for it on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC in 2026.