Onimusha: Way of the Sword Review Roundup

The game earned generally favorable aggregate scores on Metacritic for PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. The Nintendo Switch 2 version scored higher still, reaching universal acclaim.

These scores reflect a broadly positive critical reception with the Switch 2 port as the standout. Individual outlet scores varied, but the trend was clearly positive.

The impulsegamer review was one of the most detailed English-language write-ups, calling the game one of the best action games of recent years. It praised the combat and the value of the full package.

The reviewer highlighted the sword combat, the parry system and the presentation, while noting the English dub drew some online criticism. They found the English cast charming and the game well worth the asking price.

The combat was the most consistently praised element across reviews. Critics highlighted the parry and deflect system, the dismembering Issen finishers and the depth hiding beneath an accessible surface.

Reviewers stressed the game is not a Soulslike, and that its challenge comes from timing and reads rather than stamina management. The boss fights were singled out as the game's most demanding moments.

The story was described as simple but elevated by strong performances and a compelling historical backdrop. Musashi, modeled on Toshiro Mifune, anchored the presentation.

The Japanese dub was consistently praised as excellent, while the English dub split opinion. The cinematic presentation and the Edo-period Kyoto setting drew consistent praise.

The game runs roughly twenty hours, a comfortable length for a character action title. Reviewers who completed it to 100% took about two weeks and still felt they got their money's worth.

The $70 price was justified by most reviewers given the quality and the absence of live-service padding. With over a million copies sold on day one, the reception clearly matched the sales.