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Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster
Item: Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Single Player

AvailableMay 23, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC

DeveloperCapcom

Overview

Onimusha 2 is the second installment in the Onimusha series of video games released in May of 2002. The game retains the action elements from its predecessor such as the use of multiple special weapons that can be upgraded by defeating enemies. Apart from the main character, the game features four playable sub-characters, each of whom shares a part in the story. The player's actions determine which characters will decide to help Jubei in his quest. These characters were added by the Capcom staff to give a bigger depth to the game and expand the game's feeling of adventure.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster impresses with its captivating feudal Japan narrative and engaging character journeys, drawing praise for its blend of history and supernatural elements. Critics laud the branching story and rich interactions, but some highlight flaws in depth and originality, calling parts cliché and character development lacking. While the nostalgic charm and enhancements shine, the game struggles with predictable tropes, making it enjoyable yet potentially unfulfilling for those seeking deeper storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging narrative set in feudal Japan. Reviewers such as Checkpoint Gaming and ElDesmarque highlight the compelling journey of Jubei Yagyu as he seeks revenge against the demon lord Nobunaga Oda, emphasizing the incorporation of historical figures and supernatural elements that enrich the storytelling experience. Critics like Inverse and WellPlayed appreciate the branching narrative and character interactions, which add depth and replayability to the game. The blend of serious themes with moments of humor, as noted by Saudi Gamer, contributes to a well-rounded narrative that appeals to a broad audience. However, the story is not without its criticisms. Some reviewers, such as GamingBolt and PlayStation Universe, argue that the narrative lacks depth and originality, describing it as cliché and one-dimensional. Critics like Noisy Pixel point out underdeveloped character writing, which detracts from the overall immersion in the story. Additionally, Nintendo Life mentions that while the supporting cast adds charm, the protagonist Jubei himself can feel somewhat bland and lacking in depth. This sentiment is echoed by PC Gamer, who notes that certain outdated elements in character portrayal diminish the experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster features a captivating story filled with themes of revenge and supernatural encounters, it also suffers from some narrative shortcomings. Many reviewers appreciate the game's nostalgic charm and the enhancements made to the original story, yet they also acknowledge its flaws, particularly in character development and originality. The balance of engaging elements with some predictable tropes suggests that while the game is enjoyable, it may not resonate with everyone in terms of narrative depth.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster impresses with its engaging combat mechanics and modern improvements like auto-save and weapon switching, earning praise for its depth and replay value. Critics highlight the enjoyable sword-fighting and RPG elements, enhancing player interaction with NPCs. However, the game is marred by stiff gameplay and frustrating fixed camera angles, which can hinder control and disorient players. While it successfully revives classic elements for a new audience, lingering outdated mechanics indicate there's still room for improvement. Overall, it balances nostalgia with modernity, appealing to both veterans and newcomers, but not without its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, with many praising its engaging combat mechanics and quality-of-life improvements. Checkpoint Gaming highlights the enjoyable sword-fighting mechanics, which include blocking and parrying, while also noting enhancements like auto-save and weapon switching that make the experience smoother than its predecessor. Critics such as COGconnected and Noisy Pixel commend the satisfying combat system, with COGconnected mentioning the addition of side characters and quests that enrich replay value. The inclusion of RPG elements and a relationship system, as noted by Shacknews and Saudi Gamer, adds depth to the gameplay, allowing players to form bonds with NPCs that influence their experience. Overall, the remaster seems to successfully blend classic elements with modern enhancements, making it accessible and enjoyable for both veterans and newcomers. However, several critics point out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. DBLTAP describes the gameplay as feeling "stiff and awkward" at times, particularly due to the fixed camera angles that can hinder player control. GamingBolt and TheSixthAxis echo this sentiment, criticizing the dated design choices that may frustrate new players. While some improvements have been made, such as better controls and fluid combat, ElDesmarque mentions that the game still retains some outdated mechanics from its original release. Critics like PC Gamer and Stevivor also express frustration with the static camera angles, which can lead to disorientation during combat and challenging encounters. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster successfully revitalizes the classic gameplay while introducing modern enhancements, although it is not without its flaws. The combat system is widely regarded as enjoyable and rewarding, with various critics like Loot Level Chill and Inverse praising its depth and engagement. However, the persistent issues with fixed camera angles and some antiquated design choices, as highlighted by critics such as WellPlayed and GamingTrend, indicate that while the remaster is a step forward, it still carries some baggage from its past. Ultimately, the game appears to strike a balance between nostalgia and modernity, appealing to a diverse audience while leaving room for improvement.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The remaster of Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny impresses with enhanced graphics and a new 16:9 aspect ratio, earning praise for its visual upgrades. However, critics note it still feels dated due to fixed camera angles and outdated gameplay mechanics, leading to mixed reviews. While nostalgic fans may appreciate the improvements, many feel it lacks a full reimagining, with some labeling it a cash grab rather than a true overhaul.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The remaster of Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its visual enhancements. Many reviewers noted that the remaster successfully improves the graphics for modern consoles, with COGconnected praising the well-animated cutscenes and overall visual appeal. Critics like Inverse and WellPlayed highlighted the impressive upgrades in pre-rendered backgrounds, which were described as stunning and effectively enhancing the game's aesthetic. Additionally, the shift to a 16:9 aspect ratio was generally well-received, with critics like GamingTrend noting that it contributes to a more visually appealing experience for a game originally released on the PlayStation 2. However, despite the improvements, several critics pointed out that the remaster still exhibits signs of aging. Checkpoint Gaming and ElDesmarque emphasized that the game retains fixed camera angles and pre-rendered backgrounds, which can hinder gameplay and feel outdated. Critics such as GamingBolt and TheSixthAxis echoed this sentiment, noting that while the graphics have received an HD polish, they remain largely unchanged from the original version, leading to a perception of modest upgrades. Additionally, some reviewers, including DBLTAP and Noisy Pixel, mentioned that the integration of 3D models with 2D textures can be jarring, particularly for new players who may not have the nostalgic attachment to the original game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the Onimusha 2 remaster offers notable visual improvements, it does not fully escape the limitations of its origins. Many reviewers appreciated the enhancements in resolution and texture quality, with critics like MeuPlayStation and Worth Playing acknowledging the remaster's appeal to nostalgic players. However, the lingering dated elements, such as fixed camera angles and some character models, have led to a mixed reception. Critics like Stevivor even suggested that the remaster feels more like a cash grab than a comprehensive overhaul, indicating that while the visual upgrades are commendable, there remains a desire for a more substantial reimagining of the classic title.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster shines with a nostalgic 43-track soundtrack blending modern orchestration and traditional Japanese sounds, enhancing the overall experience. Critics celebrate its rich sound design, but voice acting is criticized as poor and outdated, which may hinder immersion for some players. Despite mixed opinions on its voice work, the remaster is regarded as a worthy update that captures the original's essence while offering modern enhancements.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster have garnered a generally positive reception among critics. Many reviewers, such as Checkpoint Gaming and GAMINGbible, highlight the inclusion of a comprehensive 43-track soundtrack that enhances the overall experience, providing both nostalgia and a rich auditory backdrop. Critics like Saudi Gamer and COGconnected appreciate the blend of modern orchestration with traditional Japanese instruments, which contributes positively to the game's atmosphere. The remaster also features a gallery for players to listen to the original soundtrack, as noted by ElDesmarque, further enhancing the nostalgic experience. Overall, the music is celebrated for its ability to resonate with players and complement the game's aesthetic, as pointed out by Nintendo Life. However, the remaster is not without its criticisms, particularly regarding the voice acting. Several critics, including GamingTrend and Noisy Pixel, describe the voice acting as poor or laughably bad, which detracts from the game's immersion. While some find this quality adds a kitschy charm, others, like Critical Hits, consider it dated and not up to modern standards. The absence of a Japanese audio option was also noted by COGconnected, which could disappoint players seeking an authentic experience. Additionally, while the music is generally praised, some critics, such as Critical Hits, mention that the soundtrack is functional but not particularly memorable. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster successfully enhances its sound design and music, creating a nostalgic and immersive experience for players. The remaster's soundtrack is widely appreciated, with many praising its orchestration and cultural elements. However, the voice acting remains a contentious point, with many critics noting its dated quality, which may affect the overall enjoyment for some players. Despite these criticisms, the remaster is seen as a worthy update that captures the essence of the original game while providing modern enhancements, as echoed by critics like But Why Tho? and Cultura Geek.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Voice acting in Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster is a mixed bag: some find it charmingly nostalgic, while others call it poor and stilted. Critics praise the Japanese voiceovers for authenticity but criticize the English dub for being "unintentionally hilarious" and detracting from the narrative. The performances evoke both kitschy appeal and significant flaws, leaving players divided on whether the charm outweighs the drawbacks. Ultimately, it’s a double-edged sword that shapes the game’s overall experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

69%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

25%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster has garnered a mix of opinions, with several critics acknowledging its charm and nostalgic appeal. Critics like Shacknews highlight the voice acting as "nostalgically charming," suggesting that it reflects the era in which the game was produced. Similarly, Loot Level Chill notes that the voice acting serves as a strong point, contributing positively to the game's overall charm. Even critics who describe the performances as "goofy" or "campy," like PC Gamer and Siliconera, recognize that these qualities can enhance the game's kitschy feel, making it an endearing experience for players who appreciate its retro style. The inclusion of Japanese voice acting, praised by GameBlast and PCGamesN, is seen as a positive change that adds authenticity to the experience, despite the potential trade-off of losing some unique English performances. However, the negatives surrounding the voice acting are significant and frequently mentioned across reviews. Critics such as COGconnected and Saudi Gamer describe the English voice acting as "notably poor," with COGconnected stating that it detracts from the overall experience by being "unintentionally hilarious." Many reviewers, including Noisy Pixel and Retcon, point out that the voice acting is often stilted and lacks depth, which weakens the narrative and can make serious scenes feel less impactful. The criticism of the voice acting as "terrible" is echoed by Critical Hits and GamingTrend, who suggest that while it may add to the game's charm, it also reflects the limitations of many productions from the time. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a divided sentiment regarding the voice acting in Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster. While some appreciate the charm and nostalgic qualities that come from the dated performances, others find the quality lacking and detrimental to the game's narrative impact. Critics like Worth Playing suggest a balance, acknowledging both the solid performances of Japanese actors and the cheesy nature of the English dub. Ultimately, the voice acting serves as a double-edged sword, offering a blend of endearing charm and significant flaws that shape the player's experience of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster is generally well-received across platforms, praised for quality-of-life upgrades like auto-save and smooth performance. However, persistent fixed camera angles frustrate players, complicating combat and movement. While the remaster successfully updates the classic for new and returning fans, the camera issues highlight areas needing refinement in future versions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

30%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster has garnered a generally positive reception across all platforms, with critics highlighting various improvements. On the PS4, several reviewers, including GAMINGbible and GamingTrend, praised the inclusion of quality of life enhancements such as auto-save and improved controls, which contribute to a stable and enjoyable gameplay experience. MeuPlayStation noted that the game runs smoothly on modern consoles, indicating good technical performance. Similarly, on the Nintendo Switch, both Nintendo Life and Siliconera acknowledged that the remaster runs well overall, with no significant technical issues reported. The PC version also received commendations for its smooth performance, with critics like But Why Tho? and GameBlast noting the absence of bugs or crashes, which creates a stable gaming environment. Despite the overall positive sentiments, several critics pointed out notable technical shortcomings across all platforms. On the PS4, multiple reviewers, including COGconnected and Saudi Gamer, expressed frustration with the fixed camera angles, which can complicate combat and aiming. Shacknews also mentioned occasional framerate drops during busy scenes, indicating that not all aspects of the remaster were polished. For the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Life highlighted that the fixed camera angles could lead to awkward movement issues, suggesting that the remaster did not fully address this concern. On PC, while the performance was generally smooth, PCGamesN and Retcon noted that the fixed camera system shows its age and that some rough edges from the original game remain, indicating that the remaster could have benefited from further refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster performs well across all platforms, the fixed camera angles are a recurring issue that detracts from the experience. Critics like TheSixthAxis and Worth Playing on PS4, as well as PCGamesN on PC, highlighted that these camera mechanics can lead to frustrating gameplay moments. Nevertheless, the remaster's quality of life improvements and stable performance have been well-received, suggesting that it offers a nostalgic experience for fans while also appealing to new players. The remaster successfully updates the game for modern audiences, but the persistent camera issues indicate that there is still room for improvement in future iterations.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster gets a thumbs-up for replay value thanks to branching storylines and new game modes that engage both veterans and newcomers. However, critics warn that its appeal may be limited for casual players, with some citing repetitive combat and dated design as potential turn-offs. Ultimately, nostalgia drives the experience, making it a hit for fans but possibly a miss for those unfamiliar with the series.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster is generally positive, with many critics highlighting the various features that enhance the game's longevity. Reviewers like COGconnected and Shacknews appreciate the branching storylines and character interactions, which encourage players to explore different outcomes through multiple playthroughs. The inclusion of new modes, such as Hell Mode and mini-games, has been noted by critics like Noisy Pixel and But Why Tho?, adding layers of challenge and fun that cater to both nostalgic fans and newcomers. Critics such as WellPlayed and Worth Playing emphasize the engaging narrative elements and unlockable content, which contribute to a more enjoyable experience upon revisiting the game. However, there are notable concerns regarding the game's replay value, particularly for players who are not already fans of the series. Critics like ElDesmarque and TheSixthAxis point out that the remaster primarily targets fans of the original game, which may limit its appeal to casual players. Additionally, PlayStation Universe mentions the repetitive nature of combat and design choices as potential drawbacks that could deter players from multiple playthroughs. Critics like GamingBolt also suggest that the replay value can vary based on individual tolerance for the game's dated design, which might not resonate well with new audiences. The overall consensus among critics indicates that while Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster offers significant replay value through its branching narratives and additional modes, its appeal is largely dependent on the player's familiarity with the original game. Many reviews, including those from GamingTrend and Loot Level Chill, affirm that the game provides enough incentives for returning fans, but may not attract a broader audience. Critics like PCGamesN and GameGrin caution that the remaster's faithfulness to the original may limit its appeal for those seeking a fresh experience, suggesting that the enjoyment derived from replaying the game is closely tied to nostalgia and prior engagement with the franchise.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

51%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The remaster of Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, particularly for its nostalgic appeal and visual enhancements. Many reviewers, such as GAMINGbible and Shacknews, highlight the remaster's ability to retain the charm of the original while introducing quality-of-life improvements that enhance gameplay. Critics like MeuPlayStation and Worth Playing commend the remaster for successfully expanding the gameplay experience while maintaining the franchise's unique vibe. The aesthetic upgrades and engaging combat have been noted as significant strengths, making it a delightful experience for retro fans, as pointed out by Loot Level Chill and Inverse, who describe it as a must-play for fans of the genre. However, the remaster is not without its flaws, which have been pointed out by several critics. The dated visuals and fixed camera angles, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming and ElDesmarque, make the game less accessible for new players. Many reviewers, including TheSixthAxis and PC Gamer, express concerns about the remaster's reliance on outdated design elements that detract from the overall experience. Critics like GamingBolt and Gamesurf mention that while the remaster is enjoyable, it lacks significant enhancements that would make it stand out as a memorable title, particularly for those unfamiliar with the original game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster serves primarily as a nostalgic experience for fans of the original game, with a mixed reception regarding its appeal to newcomers. While many appreciate the remaster's aesthetic and gameplay improvements, there is a clear sentiment that it does not fully modernize the experience, leaving some critics, such as PCGamesN and Stevivor, feeling that it falls short of delivering a compelling reason for new players to engage with it. The remaster is seen as a respectful homage to the original, but its limitations in innovation and accessibility may hinder its reception among a broader audience.

TL;DR

Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny Remaster delights nostalgia-driven fans with visual upgrades and improved gameplay, but struggles with dated design elements, fixed camera angles, and limited appeal for newcomers. While critics appreciate its enhancements, many feel it falls short on innovation, making it primarily a tribute to the original rather than a must-play for all gamers.

MONSTER

Reviews

84 reviews found

Inverse

PlayStation 4

May 20, 2025