At Thursday’s highly anticipated Game Awards, two significant revelations took center stage. The spotlight was on brand new entries in the beloved Okami and Onimusha franchises. This marks the first time in 18 years that a fresh title has emerged in either of these iconic intellectual properties. Over the years, there have been a few porting and remastering efforts, but now, Capcom has made it clear that it aims to keep bringing back its older properties and giving them a fresh reboot.

Capcom's Focus on Dormant IPs

According to Capcom's recent press release, the company is concentrating on re-activating those IPs that have been lying dormant without a new title launch in recent times. Here, "recently" remains a somewhat vague term, considering we are approaching two decades without a new addition to either franchise. However, these are indeed excellent starting points for Capcom's revitalization efforts.

Onimusha: The Action-Packed Swordsman Game

If you are not familiar with Onimusha, it is an action-packed game that casts you in the role of a swordsman endowed with supernatural powers. Your mission is to battle an endless horde of monsters. Capcom further emphasizes that it hopes players look forward to the opportunity to engage in thrilling "hack and slash" combat against these foes. The game offers an adrenaline-pumping experience that keeps players on the edge of their seats.

In Onimusha, every swing of the sword feels powerful and decisive. The combat mechanics are finely tuned, allowing players to execute precise attacks and combos. The variety of monsters encountered adds to the challenge and keeps the gameplay fresh. Whether it's facing off against fierce demons or cunning undead, Onimusha delivers an action-packed adventure that fans of the genre will surely love.

The game's setting is rich and immersive, transporting players to different eras and locations. The story unfolds as you progress, adding depth and narrative to the gameplay. With its intense action and captivating storyline, Onimusha has become a classic in the action game genre.

Okami: A Journey in Japanese Mythology

Okami, on the other hand, places more emphasis on art than combat. You take on the role of Amaterasu, the Shinto sun goddess, who has transformed into a wolf. Your quest is to fight your way across Japan, searching for Celestial Brush powers that will aid you in advancing further in the game.

The game is a visual masterpiece, with its vibrant colors and detailed art style. Every scene is a work of art, immersing players in the world of Japanese mythology. The Celestial Brush powers add a unique element to the gameplay, allowing you to interact with the environment in creative ways.

Exploring Japan in Okami is a truly enchanting experience. The game's attention to detail is remarkable, from the landscapes to the characters. As you progress, you learn more about Japanese mythology and culture, making the game not only a fun adventure but also an educational one. Okami's return is a welcome addition to the gaming world, offering a fresh take on a beloved franchise.

Capcom conducted a survey earlier this year to gauge players' preferences for which franchises they would most like to see return. It comes as no surprise that Mega Man, Dino Crisis, and other beloved games made the cut. For a long time, it seemed like a distant dream for these series to make a comeback, but now, Capcom has dropped the slightest hint that nostalgia might just win again.