Embark on a perilous journey through a war-torn Sengoku-era Japan as William, a formidable samurai of Western origin. This action RPG plunges players into a land plagued by malevolent spirits known as Yokai, creatures that lurk in the shadows and threaten all who dare to tread these dangerous paths. Survival demands mastery of the blade and a keen understanding of combat, as you'll face not only supernatural foes but also skilled samurai warriors in intense, strategic duels.

The game offers a deep and original narrative woven into the fabric of Japanese history, challenging players with missions and accomplishments that feel genuinely earned. Every victory is a testament to your skill, patience, and strategic prowess.

Setting and Atmosphere

The game is set in a fictionalized version of the Sengoku period of Japanese history, a time of intense civil war and upheaval. This historical backdrop is infused with dark fantasy elements, creating a world where ancient folklore and brutal warfare collide. The atmosphere is one of constant peril, with dimly lit castles, haunted forests, and desolate battlefields serving as the backdrop for your struggle against both human and supernatural adversaries.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

At its heart, this is a challenging action RPG that emphasizes deliberate and strategic combat. Players will engage in fast-paced, hack-and-slash battles, requiring precise timing for attacks, dodges, and parries. A key mechanic is the Stamina management system, which governs all actions, from striking to sprinting, forcing players to carefully consider their every move.

The game features a deep combat system with various stances, weapon types, and skills to master. Players can switch between high, mid, and low stances, each offering different attack speeds, damage outputs, and defensive capabilities. This allows for a highly customizable combat experience, adapting to different enemy types and combat situations.

Beyond combat, players will explore diverse environments, gather loot, and upgrade their character through a robust progression system. This includes leveling up stats, acquiring new skills, and equipping a wide array of armor and weapons, each with its own unique properties and effects.

What Makes This Game Unique?

This title distinguishes itself through its demanding combat system, which blends methodical swordplay with supernatural elements. The Yokai abilities system allows players to harness the power of defeated demons, adding another layer of strategic depth to combat encounters. Furthermore, the game's intricate level design, often featuring interconnected shortcuts and hidden paths, rewards exploration and careful observation.

Combat and Enemy Design

Enemies, particularly the Yokai, are designed with distinct attack patterns and weaknesses, requiring players to learn and adapt their strategies. Boss battles are a significant highlight, often serving as epic tests of skill and endurance that demand a thorough understanding of the game's mechanics.

The Role of Ki (Stamina)

Ki is a central resource that governs all offensive and defensive actions. Managing your Ki effectively is crucial for survival, as depleting it leaves you vulnerable. The Ki Pulse mechanic, which allows players to recover a portion of their Ki after a successful attack, is a vital tool for maintaining offensive pressure and defensive readiness.

Story and Premise

Players assume the role of William, a samurai of Western origin who finds himself embroiled in the conflicts and supernatural dangers of feudal Japan. Driven by personal loss and a desire for vengeance, William navigates a treacherous landscape populated by warring clans and powerful demons. The narrative explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the clash between humanity and the supernatural.

Additional Content

While the base game offers a substantial experience, it is complemented by three expansions that introduce new storylines, characters, and challenges. These expansions expand upon the game's lore and provide further opportunities to test your skills against formidable foes.

Basic Information

Release Year: 2017
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3
Genres: Role-playing (RPG), Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure