Onimusha: Way of the Sword Embraces Linear Design, Accessible Gameplay, and Narrative-Driven Experience

CAPCOM’s revival of the Onimusha franchise has stirred excitement among longtime fans, and the developers are offering a clear vision of what to expect from Onimusha: Way of the Sword. In an interview with Italian outlet Multiplayer.it during Summer Game Fest 2025, CAPCOM clarified that the upcoming title will feature a mission-based linear structure, and difficulty will not be a primary focus of the design philosophy.

Rather than following the trend of ultra-challenging action games like Dark Souls, Onimusha: Way of the Sword is being shaped to appeal to a wider and more diverse audience. Players will navigate sequentially structured levels, each culminating in a boss encounter before progressing to the next mission. While the game features linear paths, the developers emphasized that each level is packed with hidden content and optional areas for players to explore.

"We did not decide to bring Onimusha back to life because of the recent trend of particularly difficult video games," stated the development team. "On the contrary, we want to ensure that as wide an audience as possible can immediately get into the game and enjoy it."

This design decision is intended to strike a balance between accessibility and rewarding gameplay. CAPCOM aims to deliver a game that is enjoyable for both hardcore fans and those drawn to the story, characters, and historical setting. The emphasis on narrative marks a notable shift for the franchise, one that could broaden its appeal in the current gaming landscape.

While specific plot details remain under wraps, it’s clear that Way of the Sword will offer a more story-centric experience than past entries. This aligns with CAPCOM’s recent trend of leveraging narrative depth in franchises such as Resident Evil and Devil May Cry.

The game currently has a tentative 2026 release window, but with CAPCOM confirming it will be playable at Gamescom 2025, there’s reason to believe a first-half 2026 release is on the table.

As the Onimusha series returns from its long hiatus, Way of the Sword promises a fresh direction—one that blends the franchise’s classic action gameplay with a more accessible design and renewed storytelling ambition.

Are you excited for Onimusha’s return? Do you prefer games that focus more on narrative than difficulty? Let us know what you think in the comments.