Onimusha
Way of the Sword

Media · Updated September 2026

Onimusha: Way of the Sword Trailer Reaction

The Onimusha: Way of the Sword reveal trailer sparked a wave of reaction videos from creators and fans, many of whom had waited nearly two decades for a new mainline game. The reactions centered on the return of the franchise, the Mifune-modeled Musashi and the sword combat.

The reveal moment

The December 2024 reveal at The Game Awards was the franchise's first mainline announcement since Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams in 2006. For long-time fans, the moment was genuinely emotional.

Reaction videos captured creators recognizing Musashi and the Onimusha style before the title card confirmed it, a common pattern for surprise reveals.

What creators focused on

Most reactions zeroed in on two things: the return of the series and the look of the protagonist. Musashi's face being modeled on Toshiro Mifune was a frequent talking point.

The sword combat and the dismembering finishers also drew immediate attention, with many creators praising the action direction in the trailer.

Fan sentiment

Fan sentiment around the reveal was overwhelmingly positive, with the community celebrating the revival of a dormant franchise. The trailer was shared widely across social media and gaming forums.

The announcement also sparked discussion of the franchise's history and hopes for what the new entry would modernize.

Japanese reaction

In Japan, the reaction centered on the Japanese voice cast and the return of a beloved domestic series. The casting of Yoshimasa Hosoya as Musashi was a highlight for many.

Japanese reaction videos focused on the presentation and the historical setting, which resonates strongly with the home audience.

From trailer to launch

The positive trailer reaction carried through the demo period and into launch, where the game sold over one million copies on day one. The hype translated into strong early sales.

By the time reviews landed, the game was being called one of the best action games of recent years, vindicating the excitement from the reveal.