Capcom’s highly anticipated revival of its classic samurai action series is officially slicing a different path from modern gaming trends. Onimusha: Way of the Sword, announced for a 2026 release, is being helmed by director Satoru Nihei, who recently confirmed that the game will not adopt open-world mechanics or take cues from the punishing Souls-like subgenre.

Speaking in a candid interview with GamesRadar, Nihei emphasized that Way of the Sword is focused on “the clashing of blades” a vision rooted in cinematic combat and deliberate design rather than sprawling maps or brutally difficult boss gauntlets. “It certainly isn’t a punishing die-and-retry game,” he said, referencing the rising popularity of Souls-like experiences. “We wanted to stay true to Onimusha’s identity.”

A Return to Classic Action

Rather than following the open-world formula adopted by many action franchises in recent years, Onimusha: Way of the Sword is a linear, narrative-driven action game. It aims to bring back the tight level design and intense, rhythmic swordplay that defined the original PlayStation 2-era titles.

Set in a dark fantasy version of feudal Kyoto, players will step into the boots of legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi. The iconic figure is portrayed in-game using the likeness of late Japanese screen legend Toshiro Mifune, adding an extra layer of reverence and authenticity to the character.

According to early previews from Windows Central and TweakTown, the gameplay will feature a mix of traditional and newly expanded mechanics. The fan-favourite “Issen” system a precise critical counterattack executed with perfectly timed strikes makes a triumphant return. A new feature, “Break Issen,” allows players to deflect enemy attacks and expose them to devastating follow-ups, adding a fresh tactical layer to the combat.

Supernatural Flair and Series Staples

While Nihei is distancing the game from Soulslike systems, Way of the Sword is still embracing the supernatural aspects that fans associate with Onimusha. The Oni Gauntlet a core series feature is back, allowing Musashi to absorb the souls of fallen demons to power up his abilities. These powers will offer players an edge in battle and inject the kind of stylized mysticism that defined the franchise’s early identity.

The developers are also placing a strong emphasis on accessibility, ensuring the combat remains fluid and rewarding for veterans while not alienating newcomers. This approach reflects Capcom’s broader design ethos in recent years delivering polished, engaging titles that respect the legacy of their IPs without falling into the trap of imitation.

Sticking to the Blade

In an age where many classic action franchises reinvent themselves through open-world exploration, endless sidequests, and difficulty-focused progression, Capcom’s approach with Onimusha: Way of the Sword is refreshing. By embracing its own lineage instead of emulating Elden Ring or Ghost of Tsushima, the title stands out for its clear identity.

For fans who grew up on the likes of Onimusha: Warlords and Dawn of Dreams, the return to a focused samurai tale drenched in atmosphere, tight combat, and supernatural flair is a welcome one. Nihei and his team are promising a game that honours the soul of Onimusha without chasing trends and that may be exactly what the series needs.

Onimusha: Way of the Sword is set for release in 2026 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.