FromSoftware’s Xbox Exclusive RPG Is a Fantastic Game That No One’s Played

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FromSoftware is a developer known worldwide. Dark Souls and Elden Ring are critically acclaimed games, even though they are notoriously challenging. While many know these games were inspired by King’s Field, another game significantly impacted FromSoftware, and many other developers creating similar “soulslike” games. Unfortunately, this game has largely faded from memory, especially with the rise of Xbox. It never got the attention it deserved, and I believe that if it had, it could have launched a fantastic series that would have been as successful as FromSoftware’s most popular titles.

It’s a shame that not many players know Otogi: Myth of Demons, especially given its thrilling battles, beautiful and dark Japanese fantasy setting, and innovative gameplay that heavily influenced the creation of the soulslike genre. Despite all of its strengths, the game wasn’t a commercial success and was unfortunately dropped by FromSoftware without any further development.

The Forgotten FromSoftware Game: Otogi: Myth of Demons

Otogi: Myth of Demons came out in 2002 as a game you could only play on the Xbox, before Dark Souls was even made. It was released when the original Xbox was having trouble competing with the PlayStation 2. This ambitious attempt by FromSoftware, sadly, didn’t manage to change what Western gamers were interested in – they were mostly focused on shooting games like Halo: Combat Evolved. The game’s use of Japanese folklore, its unique and unusual look, and its fast-paced, action-focused combat just didn’t appeal to Xbox players back then.

It’s really too bad more people didn’t get into Otogi: Myth of Demons, because it’s such a cool and overlooked game! You play as Raikoh, basically an assassin brought back to life who has to fight a bunch of demons and close this tear between worlds. The fighting felt so quick and smooth, and you could *really* see the beginnings of what would become Dark Souls in how the characters moved and how the enemies were designed. Plus, the levels were huge and you could destroy stuff in them, and the whole game had this really unique art style.

Otogi and its follow-up, Otogi 2: Immortal Warriors, didn’t succeed commercially, even though they featured a captivating world and enjoyable gameplay. The issue wasn’t with the games themselves, but with the timing of their release and the gaming market at the time. Had FromSoftware launched the titles on the PlayStation 2 – a console more popular for Japanese RPGs – the outcome might have been different. Unfortunately, the series was discontinued after just two games, although fans can still find Otogi: Myth of Demons available on Xbox for PC.

What Otogi Could Have Been

It’s not hard to picture a different scenario where Otogi thrived and became a major game for FromSoftware and Xbox. The game’s impressive graphics, distinctive world, beautiful music, and smooth fighting style made it comparable to other famous action RPGs from the 2000s. With better timing for its release, it might even have become more popular than Dark Souls.

Even though most agree it’s a classic, fans are still hoping for a remake or revival of the series. It wouldn’t be shocking if FromSoftware came back to Otogi, but right now they seem to be concentrating on Elden Ring and its expansions, as well as new games like The Duskbloods. However, the game has all the elements needed for a successful comeback, thanks to its unique gameplay and intriguing setting. Whether it gets another chance or stays a beloved, niche favorite remains to be seen.

A Bridge to FromSoftware’s Modern Masterpieces

Otogi: Myth of Demons’ impact is noticeable throughout the action game world, particularly in soulslike titles. When you play games like Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, it’s hard not to see the connection. Both games draw heavily from Japanese folklore and feature comparable supernatural creatures and characters. The success of Sekiro – even its anime adaptation – makes the story of Otogi all the more unfortunate.

The game’s impact is also noticeable in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice’s aerial battles and fast-paced movement. These elements aren’t common in other FromSoftware “soulslike” games except for Sekiro, suggesting the developers might have drawn inspiration from Otogi. Beyond FromSoftware, Otogi featured a unique mechanic where players would return to previously explored areas, but with a reversed or altered layout – a concept later implemented in the Umbral world of Lords of the Fallen.

Experiencing everything Otogi has to offer feels like seeing the origins of gameplay ideas that FromSoftware would later refine in their other games. Because of this, it’s a great choice for long-time fans to revisit, or for newcomers discovering it for the first time. While it might seem a little awkward by today’s standards, it was a truly original and inventive game when it first came out. Hopefully, if enough players show interest, FromSoftware might consider revisiting the series and either creating a third installment or delivering the much-desired remake.

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2025-10-02 16:15