Onimusha: Way of the Sword Wiki · Combat · Official previews · September 2026
Issen
Issen is the signature high-risk counterattack: start an attack immediately before an enemy blow lands to evade and answer with a powerful cut.
Field answer. Use Issen when you can read the incoming strike confidently. If strict counter timing is unreliable, drain the enemy Stamina Gauge with Deflects and use the more accessible Break Issen route.
01 / Context
Where it appears and how it fits
Issen is available as a timed offensive response during combat. Break Issen becomes available when an enemy’s Stamina Gauge has been completely depleted.
02 / Requirements
What to know first
- 01
Watch the enemy animation, not only the HUD.
- 02
Begin the attack just before the enemy hit connects.
- 03
For Break Issen, empty the target’s Stamina Gauge first.
03 / Core facts
At a glance
- Input idea
- Attack just before impact
- Risk
- Narrower timing than Parry
- Reward
- Very high counter damage
- Alternate route
- Break Issen via stamina break
04 / Field notes
Evidence, limits, and useful detail
A standard Issen preserves the classic timing-focused risk and reward described by the director.
Break Issen broadens access to the signature attack by rewarding sustained stamina damage.
05 / Continue
Related entities and guides
Sasaki Ganryu
Sasaki Ganryu is Musashi’s rival and the human opponent at the end of the original Kiyomizu-dera demo route.
Open field note ↗
Soul Absorption
The Oni Gauntlet absorbs souls released by defeated Genma and turns them into power for combat growth, equipment upgrades, and abilities.
Open field note ↗
Oni Armaments
Oni Armaments are supernatural weapons powered through the Oni Gauntlet, giving Musashi options beyond his standard swordplay.
Open field note ↗