Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny

The Good
I think this is one of those games that is best appreciated only if you've played the prequel. Mind you, "Onimusha 2" is a great game all by itself - controls are pretty good (although why can't I map my own buttons?), graphics are stunning, gameplay is compelling. But playing through a slightly altered Gifu Castle stage (from the first game, remember? No?) is quite a trip, as is slaughtering foes from the previous game.

Fans of the first "Onimusha" already know what to expect, so I'll direct my positives towards what has been changed. You get a grand total of six weapons: the beginning sword, which is crappy and therefore really doesn't count; the familiar lightning-based sword; a long spear imbued with the power of ice; the double-headed wind sword, making a return engagement; a really big-ass hammer, possibly the coolest weapon in the game; and the ultimate weapon, a great big fire-based sword. Each has its own uses, and different players will gravitate towards different weapons based on their individual styles. On top of this, you get a bow and a gun, although I really didn't use either of them that often.

The most celebrated modification to the series is the addition of four allies who assist you at predetermined points throughout the game. In order to win them over to your side, you must give them gifts, of which there are a staggering amount scattered in the game. Ekei, the fat, spear-wielding monk, likes food and liquor, while Magoichi, the mysterious gunman, enjoys reading and intellectual pursuits. I had fun with this aspect of the game, in large part because it determines the cutscenes that you see as you play. For example, if you are strongly allied to Kotaro, the ninja, you will see more of his plotline than the other characters. It invites repeated playing more than other devices Capcom has tried in the past with other series.

There are few negatives (see below), and I look forward to seeing where Capcom takes this series in its supposedly final iteration.

The Bad
Why oh why can't games feature workable cameras? Like the "Resident Evil" games, the camera in "Onimusha 2" is fixed in various points in the game maps. Usually, the camera is fine, and in some cases it even pans helpfully to follow your onscreen avatar. However, I found that frequently camera angles obscured the enemies I was fighting, particulary during heated boss battles. Although not enough to seriously detract from the fun, it is something Capcom should address in the sequel.

The Bottom Line
Much better than the "Resident Evils," the "Onimusha" series continues to shine with this excellent game.