# Onimusha: Way of the Sword Has the Best Parry in Video Games

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/onimusha-way-of-the-sword-has-the-best-parry-in-video-games/
- Published: 2026-09-05T16:12:40+00:00
- Updated: 2026-09-05T22:17:02+00:00
- Original publisher: Polygon
- Original article: https://www.polygon.com/onimusha-way-of-the-sword-best-parry/
- Topics: Art, Culture, Entertainment, Gaming

## Key points

- Polygon review praises Onimusha: Way of the Sword's parry system as genre-leading.
- Game launched 4 September on consoles and PC, starring Miyamoto Musashi.
- Strong animation, sound and controller feedback elevate a common mechanic.

## Summary

Polygon's review argues that Capcom's newly released action RPG Onimusha: Way of the Sword features the best parry mechanic in video games, despite parrying having become an overused and stale trope across the genre, even appearing in unrelated titles such as 007 First Light. The writer credits this to exceptional animation and sound design, arguing that the combat system's execution elevates a familiar mechanic into something genuinely memorable, which matters because it demonstrates how craft and presentation, rather than novelty, can revitalise well-worn gameplay conventions.

The game, released on 4 September for consoles and Windows PC, casts players as swordsman Miyamoto Musashi, whose combat revolves around blocks, dodges and parries reinforced by reflex dodges, Issen strikes and blade locks. Successful parries trigger loud clashing sound effects, sparks, DualSense controller rumble and, on a perfect deflection, a brief slow-motion effect, while also building a "Blazing State" gauge that enables powerful finishing strikes. The reviewer particularly highlights that Musashi can parry even with his back turned to an enemy, calling the overall combat system best-in-class rather than a mechanical checklist item.

## Coverage

- [Polygon: Onimusha: Way of the Sword Has the Best Parry in Video Games](https://www.polygon.com/onimusha-way-of-the-sword-best-parry/)
- [PC Gamer: Onimusha: Way of the Sword starts off slow, but stick with it: You'll be rewarded with some of the best action combat of the decade](https://www.pcgamer.com/games/action/onimusha-way-of-the-sword-starts-off-slow-but-stick-with-it-youll-be-rewarded-with-some-of-the-best-action-combat-of-the-decade/)

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.