Onimusha 2 is still an enjoyable game, but I don't think it reaches the same level as the first Onimusha. The original felt more focused with a tighter story and pacing, while this sequel sometimes feels a little uneven.

That said, I do like the added RPG elements. The gift system, character relationships, weapon upgrades, and extra interactions add more depth and replay value compared to the first game. It gives you more reasons to experiment and see different outcomes.

Overall, it's a solid action-adventure title that is worth playing, especially if you're a fan of the series. It may not surpass the original in my opinion, but it's still a fun experience with some welcome gameplay improvements.

Recommended – 7/10.

Jubei The Substitute Santa Claus

Onimusha 2 is a game about simulating the hell of having to please everyone in your friend group, where everybody has a certain taste in things, and an opinion about how uncool your other friend is.

Compared to the first game this is much less focus. it tries so many different mechanics and systems to see what sticks, it doesn't feel as refined, but it does to some interesting stuff. The OST is still good even if the original is a bit better.

The way to gift system work, feels purposefully made so you would have bought a guide, in the old days to get the outcome you want it, it is exciting looking at gift points and trying to figure out, how to get them all as happy as possible, and get the items you want out of them, and the difference scenarios and upgrades and just entire story lines, that appear or disappear depending on the gifts.

It's just that this is the element of the game I remember the most, because it's such a big part of the beginning of the game. The other thing I remember most is the wonderful opening, that really shows the tone they are going for, cohesive blend of war and gruesomeness and sadness, but also likeable character, funny dialogue and character animation that is really expressive.

The normal gameplay is still fun. how you fight and get points to upgrade your weapons and armour so you become a dead deadly machine, and the harder enemies do enough damage, so you can never be in auto pilot.

It's a game that feels like it is pushing the formula from the original Game as far as it can, and it succeeds in many ways. I may prefer the more refined and shorter first game, but this is just a great adventure would recommend.

Didn't age as well as the first game. The fun combat is bogged down by. . . everything else.