"Onimusha: Way of the Sword" is set to launch on September 4th. The developers have released a video introducing the sword-fighting action mechanics, covering the game's storyline background and its core combat systems.
Stamina and Posture
Enemies have two health bars: the upper one is the Stamina Bar (Health), and when it is depleted, the enemy dies. The lower one is the Posture Gauge (Armor). When the Posture Gauge is depleted, the enemy's stance breaks, allowing you to perform a "Shattering Flash."
Deflect
By precisely timing your defense against attacks, you can deflect them and build up your Spirit Gauge. Once full, you enter the Spirit State. In this state, your attack power increases, parrying greatly reduces the enemy's posture gauge, and using "Shattering Flash" significantly depletes the enemy's health bar.
Powerful enemies have large health and posture gauges, so players should frequently defend and deflect to maintain the Spirit State, thereby increasing the damage dealt to enemies.
Parry
When facing enemy attacks, players can not only deflect but also parry them. This significantly reduces the enemy's posture gauge, quickly creating an opportunity to unleash a Flash.
Shattering Flash on Powerful Enemies
When performing a Shattering Flash on a powerful enemy, you can choose which body part to strike. Aiming for red-marked areas significantly reduces their stamina, while striking standard purple areas causes them to release a large amount of Souls.
Perception Dodge
Some Genma will also perform kicks, dashes, and grabs. If you dodge at the right moment, you can counter with a follow-up attack or a counter-grab.
Flash
The "Flash," a powerful strike delivered in the brief moment after evading an enemy attack, is the signature technique of the Onimusha series. Although difficult to execute and risky, its power is immense.
Wide, telegraphed attacks are easy to read; be sure to seize the moment to unleash a Flash.
Chain Flash
Once Musashi has grown stronger, pressing the attack button again immediately after a successful Flash allows you to unleash a Chain Flash on surrounding Genma.
Blue Souls and Oni Weapons
After absorbing Blue Souls and filling the gauge, you can use powerful special techniques called "Oni Weapons," such as the area-of-effect attack "Twin Blades (Wind Scroll)" or "Sharp Spear (Flash Sky)," which greatly reduces the enemy's health bar.
Enhance Musashi
As the story progresses, players can enhance Musashi's equipment and abilities. As Musashi gains Oni Power, his hidden potential will gradually awaken.
