Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny

The original Onimusha was usually described as Resident Evil with ninjas, but this superior sequel is its own man, and a very manly man with a big sword at that. Onimusha 2 still has the same awkward Resident Evil-style controls--which ridiculously makes it easier to take on four zombie ninjas in a swordfight than walk through a door straight--and the same static Resi-style backdrops, but does include some new role-playing elements, which immediately add more depth and interest than the original.

Taking on the role of a new good guy, Jubei (notable for being perhaps gaming's ugliest star--he makes Mario look like Brad Pitt), you find yourself constantly crossing paths with four other warriors who will or won't help you depending on whether you give them loads of presents or not. A typically wacky Japanese idea, but although the actually process of gift giving can be a bit tiresome the enormous replay value that having such a wide range of potential helpers at various stages brings is excellent. The increased quantity of upgradeable magic and armour available also adds more depth to the game and while at times it can still descend into mindless violence and endless boss battles this is a pleasing move away from Resident Evil and bodes well for a future second sequel. --David Jenkins

"Sure it's formulaic, but what a formula. Brutal, bloody and brilliant,few can match its looks. 90%."

Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny expands on the original title with larger environments to explore, new character interactions, enhanced swordplay, and over twice the volume of animated movies. The game tells an epic story that blends magical realism with accurate historical accounts of 16th century feudal Japan. It begins 10 years following the events in Onimusha: Warlords, after Nobunaga, an infamous Japanese warlord, has brutalized a village. Players take the role of the hero, a young warrior and master of the Yagyu Shinkage sword fighting style, who seeks revenge against Nobunaga and to uncover his destiny.

Ten years after the lone swordsman Samanosuke rose up against an army of demon warriors, Nobunaga's evil campaign continues to wreak havoc across feudal Japan. A young warrior, Jubei, returns home to his remote and once vibrant village--now in ruins, destroyed by Nobunaga's minions. With vengeance in his heart, Jubei launches upon an epic and magical quest, which will reveal his ultimate destiny. Earn the respect of confidants along the way to help Jubei battle demons, monstrous bosses, overcome ingenious puzzles and defeat Nobunaga's pillaging hordes.