Unlocking All Sword Skins in Onimusha: Way of the Sword

In the action-packed world of Onimusha: Way of the Sword, Musashi's primary tools for dispatching the demonic genma hordes are his trusty swords. While he can occasionally utilize environmental explosives or specialized Oni weaponry, his blades are his constant companions against the encroaching darkness. To add a personal touch to his formidable arsenal, players can unlock a variety of sword skins. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of acquiring every single cosmetic sword in the game, detailing the requirements and locations necessary to complete your collection. Please be advised that this guide may contain spoilers regarding the game's progression.

The majority of the game's aesthetic swords can be obtained by discovering elusive creatures known as Lion Dogs. These mystical canines become available for collection after completing the quest titled "What Lurks in the Shadows" and subsequently meeting with Lady Murasaki. Lion Dogs are found in predetermined locations across various maps, such as Eastern Kyoto. However, it's worth noting that certain exclusive sword designs are reserved for players who pre-ordered the game or purchased the deluxe and premium deluxe editions. It is crucial to remember that these sword alterations are purely visual; they do not enhance Musashi's damage output, alter his combat statistics, or confer any additional in-game effects. To apply a new sword skin, simply visit any Spirit Mirror found within the game world and select the "Change Appearance" option.

Here is a detailed breakdown of all available sword skins, along with the specific number of Lion Dogs required for each unlock, or their special acquisition methods:

• Sakurahime: Requires finding six or more Lion Dogs. This blade, once noble, is steeped in the essence of countless conflicts.
• Shishioh: Unlocked after discovering 12 or more Lion Dogs. Legend claims it was forged from the remains of a mythical beast vanquished by a legendary warrior.
• Myogo: Available upon collecting 18 or more Lion Dogs. It is said to be the divine outcome of a swordsmith's fervent prayers to all deities.
• Ura-giri: Requires finding 24 or more Lion Dogs. This sword pulses with the vengeful spirit of an Oni who met its end for betraying its own kind.
• Mooncrossed: Unlocked by locating 30 or more Lion Dogs. A gift from the moon, its beauty is almost terrifying.
• Kikoku: The ultimate Lion Dog reward, requiring all 36. Despite its allure, it is haunted by the mournful cries of weeping Oni.
• Sealed Curse: Exclusive to game pre-orders. Its unsettling appearance hints at its rumored cursed nature, whether true or not.
• The White Lion: Acquired by purchasing the deluxe or premium deluxe edition. This special skin, as majestic as a white lion, is believed to instill courage and resolve in its wielder.
• Bamboo & Panda: Available with the deluxe or premium deluxe edition. Despite its bamboo construction, Musashi appreciates its unique design, particularly the charming panda motif.
• Whittled Oar: Another deluxe or premium deluxe edition exclusive. This skin transforms Musashi's blade into a wooden oar, capable of delivering crushing blows to foes.
• Raizan: Part of the deluxe or premium deluxe editions. A striking appearance suggesting lightning's power, though it remains a standard blade in function.
• Enryuu: Found in the deluxe or premium deluxe editions. This skin gives the illusion of being imbued with fire, yet it functions as any other ordinary sword.

To begin your quest for these cosmetic enhancements, you must first understand how to locate Lion Dogs. After successfully completing the mission "What Lurks in the Shadows," Lady Murasaki will introduce you to these ethereal creatures and mark their initial locations on your map with distinct paw icons. To rescue these spectral puppies, simply navigate to their marked positions and interact with them. To uncover all 36 Lion Dogs, you will need to steadily advance through the main campaign. New Lion Dog locations will progressively appear on your map as you achieve specific milestones and progress through the story. The "Curious Cases" menu provides a convenient overview of the number of dogs found and the maps where they can still be discovered.

Here is a breakdown of the quests that unlock additional Lion Dog locations and the respective areas:

• "What Lurks in the Shadows": Unlocks 12 Lion Dogs across Eastern Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Nijo-jo Castle, and Kyoto Imperial Palace.
• "The Roots of All Evil": Reveals 5 more Lion Dogs in Eastern Kyoto.
• "Okuni's Kabuki Dance": Adds another 5 Lion Dogs to Eastern Kyoto.
• "The Demon on the Mount": Unlocks 6 Lion Dogs exclusively on Mount Oe.
• "In the Light of an Icy Moon": Reveals the final 8 Lion Dogs across Eastern Kyoto and Arashiyama.

By diligently tracking down these hidden Lion Dogs and, for some, acquiring the special game editions, players can fully customize Musashi's appearance, adding a personal flair to his epic journey against the forces of hell. Enjoy collecting every unique blade and showcasing your preferred style as you carve your path through the demonic invasion.