How to break malice barriers in Onimusha: Way of the Sword
Malice barriers appear throughout Onimusha: Way of the Sword as Musashi purifies areas overrun by malice and the genma. You will first encounter several at Kiyomizu-dera Temple during the main quest “The Stage is Set at Kiyomizu”, with more appearing later in the campaign.
These structures can conceal optional objectives, but they may also seal off routes required for story missions. Breaking them is therefore essential rather than optional.
Spoiler warning: This guide discusses an ability, mission and boss encounter from Onimusha: Way of the Sword.
The ability required to destroy malice barriers
Normal attacks and sword upgrades will not remove a malice barrier. You must first obtain the Oni Strength ability, which becomes available during the early main mission “Careful What You Wish For”. Reaching this point can take up to five hours of play.
That mission investigates strange events at the Hachidai Rikison Shrine and ends with a battle against Rasho-gan. Once the boss is defeated and the following short cutscene has played, Oni Strength and its associated skill tree unlock.
Using Oni Strength on a barrier
After unlocking the ability, approach a malice barrier and hold the action button. Oni Strength will interact with the structure and break it, opening the blocked route or revealing whatever lies beyond it.
The Oni Strength tree also contains the “Destruction Speed” passive node. This upgrade shortens the time needed to destroy barriers, making it particularly useful when moving quickly through an area instead of stopping to fight every enemy.
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Oni Strength has combat uses too
Oni Strength remains useful after the barriers are gone. Against enemies carrying shields or holding defensive stances, activate the ability to smash through their protection.
It can also seize environmental objects, including explosive barrels, and hurl them at enemies. After upgrading the ability, Musashi can even lift and throw large pillars. If you are planning a dedicated gaming space, the Arcade Machine Buying Guide offers broader advice on choosing a setup.
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