PGC NEWS

The resurgence of classic Capcom titles continues with the remaster of Onimusha: Warlords. From Mega Man to Devil May Cry and the Resident Evil 2 Remake, Capcom seems to be rediscovering its roots, breathing new life into beloved franchises. But does this updated samurai adventure hold up in the modern gaming landscape? Let’s delve into the strengths and weaknesses of Onimusha: Warlords.

Onimusha: Warlords

A Balanced Combat System

Onimusha: Warlords carves its own niche in the action genre, blending elements of Resident Evil and Devil May Cry. Like Resident Evil, strategic movement is crucial for outmaneuvering enemies and exploiting their weaknesses. However, the game also incorporates the satisfying hack-and-slash action of Devil May Cry, allowing players to unleash swift and precise attacks. The combat is further enhanced by ranged weapons like bows and arrows, firearms, and even magical abilities.

Battles in Onimusha: Warlords require both agility and intelligence. Players must seize opportunities to strike when enemies are vulnerable, while also knowing when to retreat and avoid damage. The game also offers a welcome respite from the action with engaging puzzles that test players’ problem-solving skills.

Progression is tied to absorbing the souls of defeated demons, which can be used to upgrade weapons, magical orbs, and items. Since there are no character levels, weapon upgrades are the primary means of increasing power. Orb upgrades unlock new areas and advance the story, while item upgrades, particularly enhancing herbs into medicine, are crucial for survival. Resources are scarce, so careful management is essential.

Immersive Atmosphere

While the remastered graphics haven’t received a complete overhaul and the linear storyline might feel dated, Onimusha: Warlords excels in its unique atmosphere. The game grounds its supernatural elements in historical context, featuring a real-life ronin (masterless samurai) as the protagonist and drawing inspiration from the Sengoku period of Japanese history. Even the demonic enemies are rooted in Japanese mythology, adding a layer of authenticity to the narrative. This blend of historical and fantastical elements creates a distinct and compelling experience.

Frustrating Controls and Camera

One of the most significant drawbacks of Onimusha: Warlords is its archaic control scheme and camera angles, a common issue with early PlayStation titles. Movement is tied to the character’s facing direction, requiring players to constantly adjust their orientation. This is further complicated by the dynamic camera angles, which shift frequently and disorientingly. In a game that relies heavily on precise movement, these issues can be incredibly frustrating.

A Quick Overview

Onimusha: Warlords offers a unique blend of action, strategy, and historical fantasy. The balanced combat system and immersive atmosphere are highlights, while the outdated controls and camera can be a significant barrier for new players.

Pros:

• Engaging combat system
• Unique atmosphere
• Thought-provoking puzzles

Cons:

• Archaic controls and camera
• Dated graphics
• Linear storyline

Conclusion

Onimusha: Warlords is a classic with both strengths and weaknesses. While its core gameplay remains engaging, the outdated controls and camera can be a deterrent. However, for players willing to overlook these flaws, the game offers a unique and rewarding experience. If you’re a fan of classic action games and are looking for something with a distinct flavor, Onimusha: Warlords is worth checking out. If you’re looking for a more modern experience, you might find the controls and camera frustrating.