Capcom's new sword-action title, Onimusha: Way of the Sword, is set to launch simultaneously on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2 on September 4, 2026. Regarding the Switch 2 version's performance, producer Akito Kadowaki and director Ken Nihei made a surprising statement in a recent interview with Famitsu: although development for this version started later, the optimization results exceeded expectations, with the actual experience being "almost indistinguishable" from the PS5 version.
According to Akito Kadowaki, porting to Switch 2 was not part of the initial plan but was officially started midway through development. He admitted that while there are indeed gaps in image quality and frame rates—with other platforms outputting 60 FPS or higher, while the Switch 2 version is locked at 30 FPS—the actual feel from trials shows that this handheld version "can fully compete with other platforms."
"I think we did very well, so well that you might not even feel any difference. Honestly, we started working on the Switch 2 version midway through development, but based on the trial experience, we felt 'this can really compete with other platforms.' If you scrutinize the details, there are differences in image quality and frame rates, but whether it's 30 FPS or 60 FPS, it's enough for players to fully enjoy the action."
Ken Nihei added about the unique advantages of handheld mode: "The development team has been discussing how convenient it is to play in handheld mode. Being able to lie in bed and play comfortably is really great, isn't it?"
According to official data, Onimusha: Way of the Sword outputs natively at 1080p in docked mode on Switch 2, and 900p in handheld mode, with both modes utilizing upscaling technologies like DLSS to optimize visual presentation. The frame rate is locked at 30 FPS by default, but players can enable "Variable Frame Rate Mode," allowing frames to fluctuate between 30 and 40 FPS, which, combined with Switch 2's VRR technology, delivers a smoother experience.
In terms of actual experience, media feedback from trials indicates that while the Switch 2 version does make compromises in lighting and texture details, with visuals appearing slightly washed out in handheld mode, the small screen masks some visual flaws, making the overall performance still surprisingly impressive.
The Switch 2 version also offers an exclusive motion control mode, where players can swing Joy-Con 2 to change slash angles—horizontal swings correspond to one-handed light attacks, while vertical swings correspond to two-handed heavy attacks. Director Nihei clearly stated, "There is no difference in damage values between motion controls and button inputs," allowing players to mix and match both methods.
However, media outlets noted after trying out the game that this motion control system feels more like a homage to the motion-controlled swordplay of the Wii era. Considering that Onimusha itself is a high-difficulty action game that emphasizes precise parries and timing, swinging your arms to attack might actually disrupt the rhythm—some trial editors even had to lower the difficulty to defeat bosses using motion controls. But for players seeking fresh experiences or portable fun, it remains a unique appetizer.
From Resident Evil: Requiem to Onimusha: Way of the Sword, Capcom's ports on Switch 2 have been repeatedly hailed as "technical miracles." When asked about their secret, producer Kadowaki laughed and replied, "Even I'm surprised at how we managed it! Maybe there's a secret recipe, but there's really nothing special to say from a technical standpoint!"
Onimusha: Way of the Sword will be officially released on September 4 and is now available for pre-order. This is the first fully new entry in the series in 20 years, telling the dark fantasy adventure of young swordsman Miyamoto Musashi as he battles demons invading Edo-era Kyoto. No matter which platform you choose, this feast of swordplay is just around the corner.