The announcement of an Onimusha anime adaptation marks an exciting new chapter for Capcom’s supernatural samurai video game franchise. Though not the full-fledged new game installment that some fans may have been longing for, the anime nevertheless presents rich storytelling potential. That is the reason why fans are excited for Onimusha Episode 1.
Judging by the brief first look, which features striking title cards but leaves many questions unanswered, this adaptation promises to delve deep into the world and characters of Onimusha.
Who are the mysterious figures featured in the title cards? Longtime fans likely recognize some of the iconic characters, while newcomers will be eager to learn more about the saga’s key players.
With a talented creative team featuring an acclaimed director and popular actor, the anime has the pedigree to do justice to one of Capcom’s most beloved series. The recent Dragon’s Dogma anime preceding a new game announcement also raises hopes that an Onimusha revival may be on the horizon.
While the anime will surely stand on its own merits as an adaptation, it also represents a new avenue to reignite fan fervor and potentially set the stage for bigger things to come. For now, both loyal followers and newcomers alike have reason to anticipate this fresh interpretation of the supernatural samurai world.
Everything We Know So Far About Onimusha
The Onimusha games revolve around the tumultuous Sengoku era of feudal Japan when warlords clashed for supremacy. The main protagonist is Samanosuke, a young samurai of the Akechi clan. He does battle against the forces of the notorious general Nobunaga Oda.
According to legend, Nobunaga was resurrected by demonic powers, which Samanosuke must counteract using the magic of benevolent Oni spirits.
Samanosuke uncovers a sinister plot by the demon Guildenstern and his creation Reynaldo to revive the demon god Fortinbras.
Fans of Shakespeare will recognize those names from Hamlet. The second game shifts focus to a new hero, Jubei Yagyu, before Samanosuke returns in the third game, now transported to modern-day Paris. There he encounters Jacque, a present-day warrior modeled on French actor Jean Reno.
While awash in supernatural themes, the Onimusha games are grounded in real Japanese history and folklore. However, the upcoming anime adaptation centers on a different main character. It remains unclear whether Samanosuke will feature at all.
Therefore, viewers need not be familiar with the games to appreciate the anime on its own terms. The show promises to tap into the rich well of Japanese samurai lore but craft an accessible story for old fans and newcomers alike. With demons, magic, and martial arts as its backdrop, the Onimusha anime should deliver thrilling supernatural action when it arrives.
Onimusha Anime Adaptation Cast
The Onimusha anime boasts an all-star Japanese voice cast to bring its characters to life. In the lead role of Miyamoto Musashi is veteran voice actor Akio Ootsuka, known for iconic anime roles like Anavel Gato in Mobile Suit Gundam. Playing the part of Iemon is Kimura Ryouhei, whose credits include Attack on Titan’s Reiner Braun.
Rounding out the main cast are Ootsuka Houchuu as Matsuki Kensuke and Seki Toshihiko as Sasaki Kojirou. Houchuu is a prolific voice actor with over 300 credits to his name, while Toshihiko has brought his talents to popular series like Demon Slayer and My Hero Academia.
With these four accomplished actors on board, the anime promises performances that will capture the essence of these historical samurai figures. Their pedigree and experience in breathing life into anime characters make them the perfect choices to realize the lead roles. Fans can expect nuanced voice work that will elevate the epic supernatural drama of the Onimusha anime when it arrives.
Release Date and Where to Watch
The upcoming Onimusha Episode 1 is scheduled to be out for the fans to watch on Thursday, November 02, 2023.
- Japanese Standard Time: 10:00 PM on Thursday, November 02, 2023
- Central European Time: 03:00 PM on Thursday, November 02, 2023
- New York: 09:00 AM on Thursday, November 02, 2023
- Australian Capital Territory: 12:00 AM on Thursday, November 02, 2023
- Pacific Time: 06:00 AM on Thursday, November 02, 2023
- Eastern European Time: 03:00 PM on Thursday, November 02, 2023
You will be able to watch the upcoming Onimusha Episode 1 simply on Netflix. If you love watching historical series and looking for more such shows, you can check out many others in the anime section of our site.
