Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny Review – A Conservative Remaster

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2026 will see the return of the Onimusha series with the release of Onimusha: Way of the Samurai, and to rekindle interest in the action-packed franchise, the developers have plans that include remasters. One such remaster is a refreshed version of 2002’s Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny for modern platforms. However, similar to the 2019 re-release of Onimusha: Warlords, this remaster offers an updated version of a game that while still enjoyable in some aspects, has not held up well over time. Consequently, the overall experience is a blend of strong points and weaknesses.

In an enhanced version, Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny receives a modest upgrade. You’d anticipate this remaster to boost the game to high-definition resolution and offer the option for a 16:9 aspect ratio play. Regrettably, the developers haven’t optimized the game perfectly for this new aspect ratio, resulting in instances where the camera may not display what you’d expect. Fortunately, you have the ability to revert to the original 4:3 aspect ratio.

If you were expecting a significant overhaul with improvements in visuals and gameplay, you might find this update less satisfying, much like the re-release of Onimusha 1 in 2019.

In addition to enhancing Onimusha 2, the remastered version offers a fresh, modernized control scheme that allows for continuous movement using the analog stick. However, for those who prefer the original experience, the traditional tank controls remain an option. The remaster also introduces an easy mode and a challenging hell mode where a single hit results in death. Furthermore, it includes a gallery to showcase all the newly improved and enhanced assets.

Essentially, Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny remains largely unchanged from its PS2 version released over two decades ago, with only minor enhancements such as smooth weapon switching and unlocked minigames from the start. If you were expecting a more substantial upgrade to modernize its visuals and gameplay, this remaster might not meet your expectations, much like the re-release of Onimusha 1 in 2019. Despite running smoothly with minimal performance issues, it’s important to note that the game still looks good primarily due to its original art design and timeless pre-rendered backgrounds, rather than significant remastering work. Credit for the visual appeal goes more to the original game than the remastered version.

In its faithful recreation, Onimusha 2 retains much of its original traits, thus inheriting both its strengths and flaws. For example, the problematic camera, which seems even more frustrating in 2025 than it did initially, is one such trait. While Onimusha 2 skillfully employs fixed cameras at times, they can just as easily become a source of annoyance. Sudden camera shifts might cause you to move unintentionally, disorienting you, or you’ll often find yourself under attack from enemies you can’t see. In many ways, the camera in Onimusha 2 frequently interferes with the gameplay, making both intense battles and simple movements feel awkward and cumbersome more often than desired.

If we overlook the outdated design elements and annoying camera problems, the fight sequences remain enjoyable.

In its fundamental structure, Onimusha 2 seems to harbor design flaws that were unlikely to be addressed in a remaster, especially one as traditional as this one. For example, the level designs are rather predictable and lack creativity, resulting in frequent corridor traversals with limited interactive elements other than visually stunning art design. The game’s progression is also quite straightforward, giving an impression of being hastily thought out, while certain combat situations and battles appear excessively challenging due to the game’s idiosyncrasies as a result of aging rather than presenting genuine difficulties.

In this updated version, all the existing problems are clearly noticeable, which may challenge your tolerance level. Consequently, the enjoyment might differ among players, as not everyone would be keen on tolerating Onimusha 2’s apparent flaws to reach the enjoyable aspects. However, for those who opt to endure both the pros and cons, there is indeed enjoyable content waiting, particularly if you’re a returning fan.

In essence, the battle sequences in this game are still an enjoyable experience. When it manages to steer clear of hindrances caused by outdated design elements or troublesome camera problems, the combat remains highly entertaining. The fun factor is amplified not just by the assortment of weapons and their delightful playability, but also by thoughtfully crafted boss fights, diverse enemy types, and solid, engaging, and consistently rewarding gameplay mechanics at its core.

In terms other than combat, Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny effectively incorporates elements of exploration and puzzle-solving. Drawing on influences from the design philosophy of the legendary Resident Evil series, Onimusha 2’s item-dependent puzzles offer a refreshing change of pace from combat sequences. These puzzles are engaging enough to provide a nice break from combat, without being overly complicated or underwhelming. Although it doesn’t offer the same level of exploration as a game like Resident Evil, Onimusha 2 manages to execute what it does well enough that players find themselves eager for more.

For devoted enthusiasts of the Onimusha series or even those who can overlook its somewhat dated PS2-era characteristics, Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny offers an appealing reason to reconnect with the franchise.

In essence, players mainly seek out “Onimusha 2” for its combat and puzzle design, but its story and narrative aren’t particularly groundbreaking. However, it has its flaws, such as being too conservative in terms of upgrades, dated design, a frustrating camera system, and more. Collectively, these issues can be quite noticeable, making a straightforward recommendation somewhat challenging.

For dedicated fans of the Onimusha series or those willing to overlook its PS2-era characteristics, Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny serves as a welcome return to the franchise. But if you’re seeking an enduring gaming experience with consistently solid design elements, this game might not meet that criteria.

The PlayStation 4 version of this game was reviewed on PlayStation 5 via backward compatibility.

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2025-05-26 13:12