Combat System | Onimusha Way of the Sword

Combat System - Is it Soulslike?

No. Onimusha: Way of the Sword is an action-adventure game that follows the protagonist Miyamoto Musashi as he slashes his way through the dark fantasy version of feudal Japan. Armed with his sword, other weapons, and mystical abilities, he takes on supernatural foes and deadly rivals.

[1] Stamina Drain & Break Issen

Enemies have a red stamina bar beneath their HP that can be depleted through attacks, parrying, and deflecting, with each action dealing varying amounts.

Once exhausted, the enemy becomes vulnerable to Break Issen, opening them up for a lethal strike.

Certain areas on a boss can be targeted during a Break Issen to yield a desired result. Striking purple areas drop more souls, while aiming for red areas deal greater damage and speed up the fight.

[2] Soul Absorption

Enemies leave behind different types of souls, each color-coded according to their use. Absorb these with the Oni Gauntlet to make use of their effects.

[3] Parry & Deflect

Parrying an attack just before it lands creates an opening to punish the enemy while diminishing their stamina. This makes it useful for setting up a Break Issen.

Deflecting an attack does not provide a vulnerable window but instead significantly depletes the enemy's stamina. This mechanic is particularly useful for quickly setting up a Break Issen.

[4] Blazing State

Parrying attacks also fill the Blaze Gauge, allowing Musashi to enter the Blazing State where his attacks become stronger and deal more damage.

[5] Reflex Dodges & Combo

Evading right before an attack lands triggers a Reflex Dodge and fills the Reflex Gauge. Performing enough dodges allows the player to execute a deadly Reflex Combo.

[6] Issen

Issen is a perfectly timed counterattack that allows Musashi to strike an opponent just before their attack lands. This is a high-risk, high-reward technique that deals lethal damage when executed correctly.

Related Guides

Game Overview

Latest News and Updates