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