Onimusha: Warlords

     Onimusha is the reason why I play video games. So when it was release I grabbed the title immediately and was awestruck, by the graphics and cinematic story that has been touted as one of the most popular titles for the PS2.

     Onimusha is based on the Battle of Okehazama. The Battle of Okehazama was between fueding clans, led by Yoshimoto Imagaw and Nobunaga Oda. As the battle ensued, hundreds of characters appear on the screen, slicing and dicing one another, in probably one of the most realistic fighting scenes in video game history. Nobunaga fends off the invaders and slays Yoshimoto. Nobunaga while reveling in his glory is shot in the throat by an arrow from Yoshimoto's clan and dies. As this all progresses, a young man, and great warrior, Samanosuke Akechi watches from a hill, who does not realize this event has marked a destiny he can't escape.

     A year later, strange incidents begin to occur Inabayama Castle, once home to Nobunaga. Leading, the present ruler, Princess Yuki, to ask for help from Samanosuke, however, when he gets to the castle, Yuki is gone. And whoa and behold an army of dead people begins to attack the castle, lead by Nobunaga, who has risen from the grave to take back his land. With help from Kaede, a female ninja, Samanosuke must save the princess and stop this evil menace.

     Yes, Onimusha is a cool story matched with fantastic graphics. This is a breath takingly beautiful game. The cinematic scenes really get you involved in the story. The characters look like real humans and make you feel as if you have been pulled into feudal Japan. Your jaw will drop in awe as the action plays on the screen. And while at first, it seemed like these cut scenes would interfere with my game play, but after the beginning sequences, you take control and slice and dice your way to save the princess.

     To help you along the way a new tribe emerges to help you in your quest. The Ogres have a vested interest in all this and believe this new force could wipe them out. Magically appearing after your character is knocked to near death by a nasty creature, they tell you of your quest and what it means. Of course, they know you will need a little help as well and supply you with a gauntlet that gives you the power to harness the energy of the army of dead for your own self preservation.

     Pretty soon blood splattered everywhere as I collected souls, enhancing my gauntlet, picking up herbs and collecting all types of items on my quest.

     Badseed's Bottomline: 8 out of 10: Yes, this game has great sound, beautiful graphics, fantastic action and awesome game play, but it is so fast that the game is over in no time. I loved this game and I wanted to play so much more, but everything came to an end and now I just hope Onimusha 2 is in the works. Maybe that was what they wanted, but when I pay over $50 for a game, I want a lot more than what I got.

     Send your comments and or questions about this article to Badseed@ybfree.com.

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