Muramasa: The Demon Blade

[Evil Avnovice]

http://i758.photobucket.com/albums/xx230/Avnovice/Video%20Game%20Boxart/Muramasa_The_Demon_Blade.jpg

Japanese Boxart:
http://i758.photobucket.com/albums/xx230/Avnovice/Video%20Game%20Boxart/3361317330_644edb33d5_b.jpg

-Official japanese (http://www.mmv.co.jp/special/game/wii/oboromuramasa/) website
-North American Website (http://www.muramasathedemonblade.com/?fbid=PF00-EZkAdz#/home)
-Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/Muramasa-Demon-Blade-Nintendo-Wii/dp/B001HB7K6I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1242954306&sr=8-1)/GameStop (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=73359) (Pre-Order bonus)/Gamefly (http://www.gamefly.com/game/Wii/Muramasa-The-Demon-Blade/134595/)/Play-Asia (http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-z3-49-en-15-muramasa+the+demon+blade-70-39cy-43-bs.html) Pages
-FaceBook (http://www.facebook.com/muramasawii)

[Young Al Capone]

Very, very impressive. Especially the last one.

The videos released so far look repetitive, I am hoping that that won't be the case though.

[Evil Avnovice]

Very, very impressive. Especially the last one.

The videos released so far look repetitive, I am hoping that that won't be the case though.

As this is from the same crew (VanillaWare) that developed Odin Sphere, I'll still buy this, monotony and all. Something like this is just too good for me to pass up.

[danhoo]

As this is from the same crew (VanillaWare) that developed Odin Sphere, I'll still buy this, monotony and all. Something like this is just too good for me to pass up.

Me too. I expect there to be a lot of repetition, like Odin Sphere, but I do love what VanillaWare can do 2D art.

[KidCactus]

The videos released so far look repetitive, I am hoping that that won't be the case though.
Odin Sphere was extremly repetative too, and this seems to play the same way, so I don't have high hopes for this even though it's awesome visual presentation.

[Evil Avnovice]

Me too. I expect there to be a lot of repetition, like Odin Sphere, but I do love what VanillaWare can do 2D art.

Oh yes. Here's hoping that consumables aren't tied into your stats for this one. :p

[Young Al Capone]

Odin Sphere was extremly repetative too, and this seems to play the same way, so I don't have high hopes for this even though it's awesome visual presentation.

Yeah, me niether.

It is so pretty though.

[JayVe]

Woooow! Very nice. Glad to see people doing amazing things in 2D.

[Evil Avnovice]

Two new (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41153.html) videos (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41056.html) from Gametrailers.

41153

41056

[Xerxes]

Ummm, yeah I actually like the look of this. I need to play Odin Sphere one of these days.

[Doctor Setebos]

That is gorgeous.

Pay attention, Konami. This is how you do 2D on the Wii. Next time you get the itch to make a god-damned Wii Castlevania game, look at THIS first.

[QueQueg]

This is a Wii title? Wow, I'm excited. I was expecting yet another PS2 game from Atlus.

[JayVe]

That is gorgeous.

Pay attention, Konami. This is how you do 2D on the Wii. Next time you get the itch to make a god-damned Wii Castlevania game, look at THIS first.

I think this is an excellent way to do 2D in general, no matter the platform. It saddens me to think that the 360/PS3 Castlevania will probably be nothing like this, and instead will be a 3D action adventure instead. :(

[Xerxes]

Oh a wii game? ~_~

[danhoo]

Really pretty trailers. Also, seems like a decent amount of enemy variety in the second trailer. Avnovice -- have they said when is this coming out in the US?

[Doctor Setebos]

Really pretty trailers. Also, seems like a decent amount of enemy variety in the second trailer. Avnovice -- have they said when is this coming out in the US?It's just 2009 right now.

[Evil Avnovice]

Really pretty trailers. Also, seems like a decent amount of enemy variety in the second trailer. Avnovice -- have they said when is this coming out in the US?

To back up Doctor Setebos, it's scheduled for a "2009" release. Myself, I haven't heard if there's a US date for it. (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=58693))

MURAMASA: THE DEMON BLADE Wii

Based on ancient Japanese lore, Murumasa: The Demon Blade (known in Japan as “Oboro Muramasa Youtouden) plunges players into the mystical Genroku era, ruled by the skilled shogun Tsunayoshi Tokogawa. But this culture is threatened; Tokogawa’s thirst for power leads to a conflict over the enormously powerful, though cursed, Demon Blades. Used in hatred, drenched in blood, the cursed blades condemn those who use them to tragedy, madness, and untimely deaths. As chaos spreads, denizens from the netherworld breach their realm as these malevolent swords summon evil spirits - and the Dragon and Demon Gods as well. Featuring hand-drawn 2D art reflecting the heritage and tone of the storyline, Muramasa: The Demon Blade transports players into a little known mythology, envisioned by the creators of the critically acclaimed Odin Sphere. Players take on the role of a male ninja or female kunoichi, utilizing their ninja prowess to traverse the clever side-scrolling levels that feature vertical progression as well as the traditional horizontal stage advancement. Muramasa: The Demon Blade Wii is scheduled for release in 2009.

[Deadend]

I wish this was a PS360 game... and with good gameplay. Odin Sphere was a shitty game to play, but fun to watch.

[Doctor Setebos]

To back up Doctor Setebos, it's scheduled for a "2009" release. Myself, I haven't heard if there's a US date for it.I have to check again, but I believe it's coming out in 2008 in Japan, and is already slated for a 2009 US release, we just don't know exactly when.

[Evil Avnovice]

A seven minute extended TGS 2008 gameplay video. I got this from GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=58938), but I will direct link the dailymotion (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x715kl_muramasa-the-demon-blade-tgs-footag_videogames) video as well.

Note: Watching both this and the Gametrailers extended footage, combat in Muramasa: The Demon Blade looks to be more fun and engaging than Odin Sphere's.

[Inspector Fowler]

It's been a while since I played a 2D platformer/fighter like this, but aren't most of them pretty repetetive? Move right/up/down, kill all bad guys in your way, continue until finished....

I'm sad it's a Wii game. I play mine so rarely I haven't even purchased the component cables for it.

[Evil Avnovice]

"Imp Slaughtering" video. (Gametrailers (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41355.html))

41355

[Evil Avnovice]

"Demon Slaying" gameplay video. (Gametrailers (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41357.html))

41357

[King3567]

Wish this was on 360...:(

[JayVe]

I'm sad it's a Wii game. I play mine so rarely I haven't even purchased the component cables for it.

$5.17
Wii Component Cables (http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.4256)
Free shipping

Do it

[Evil Avnovice]

TGS 2008 "Walkthrough" video from Gametrailers (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41359.html).

41359

[Xerxes]

Wish this was on 360...:(

I thought it was a PS2 game.

[JayVe]

TGS 2008 "Walkthrough" video from Gametrailers (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41359.html).

41359

Wow. The lighting is very atmospheric... something you don't typically get in 2D games.

That's that other game in the background?

[Young Al Capone]

It's been a while since I played a 2D platformer/fighter like this, but aren't most of them pretty repetetive? Move right/up/down, kill all bad guys in your way, continue until finished...

The trick is keeping it interesting anyway, by having interesting moves/combos, a wide variety of enemy types that vary thier attacks and work together, intersting levels in which to battle these enemies, etc...

Now, you cannot necessarily tell that that isn't the case from these videos because they show so little, so I am still on the fence.

[Gorvi]

That looks so good.

[Evil Avnovice]

Wow. The lighting is very atmospheric... something you don't typically get in 2D games.

That's that other game in the background?

I got a good look at it, but I was curious myself as to what game that was too. :confused:

[Evil Avnovice]

I have to check again, but I believe it's coming out in 2008 in Japan, and is already slated for a 2009 US release, we just don't know exactly when.

I don't know if you've seen this yet Doctor, but it sounds like it could hit North America in 2009/2010. (NintendoEverything (http://www.nintendoeverything.com/?p=4915))

Rising Star Games and Marvelous Entertainment today hailed their overseas media event at this year’s Tokyo Games Show a success and feels buoyed by the positive reactions received for the products on show. Featuring playable code of the previously announced Little King’s Story for the very first time, there was also a debut for Muramasa: The Demon Blade to western audiences as well as the announcement of No More Heroes 2 by creator Suda51 himself. All three titles will be published by Rising Star Games in PAL territories during 2009/10.

[Doctor Setebos]

I don't know if you've seen this yet Doctor, but it sounds like it could hit North America in 2009/2010. (NintendoEverything (http://www.nintendoeverything.com/?p=4915))Yeah, I saw that PR earlier today, but missed that bit of info.

BTW: PAL != North America :rolleyes:

[Xerxes]

That looks so good.

For a Wii game. :rolleyes:
http://bp0.blogger.com/_fUmbz2js4aQ/R1RWAakN0hI/AAAAAAAAAAc/GtQcU3z_oGg/s400/Htorch.PNG

[Evil Avnovice]

Yeah, I saw that PR earlier today, but missed that bit of info.

BTW: PAL != North America :rolleyes:

I'm not sure if that was directed towards me, but I take it it's because I went and bolded the PAL territory bit, when I should have just bolded the part where the game may be considered for a western release.

But that's if the sarcasm was meant for me....:confused:

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new images (http://www.gamekyo.com/blog_article211530.html). (Gamekyo)

http://www.gamekyo.com/images_1/19031160b1e8b75d38da38125bd8896f20081014101019.jpg

http://www.gamekyo.com/images_1/c260e04a8276319cf7e0ed5012fa029a20081014101019.jpg

http://www.gamekyo.com/images_1/a505dcd3b104727e1077c8ecf5bbc32920081014101209.jpg

http://www.gamekyo.com/images_1/7de0e9bfaf6e34e690389304d5fbad1220081014101403.jpg

http://www.gamekyo.com/images_1/3b4df748f9758aae8db811327878adbc20081014101403.jpg

[J3DI]

I thought it was a PS2 game.

I thought it was a PSN/XBLA game.... go figure.

[Doctor Setebos]

I'm not sure if that was directed towards me, but I take it it's because I went and bolded the PAL territory bit, when I should have just bolded the part where the game may be considered for a western release.

But that's if the sarcasm was meant for me....:confused:Of course it was directed at you! Where else would I direct my ire? ;) You said that it could hit North America 2009/2010, and then pointed out the press release that said PAL territories 2009/2010. The press release makes no mention of when the games might hit NA. In fact, Marvelous just yesterday said that none of their recently announced games have NA publishers yet.

But it was really meant to be more a joke than an actual insult. I don't actually hate you or anything. Today. :D

[Evil Avnovice]

Of course it was directed at you! Where else would I direct my ire? ;) You said that it could hit North America 2009/2010, and then pointed out the press release that said PAL territories 2009/2010. The press release makes no mention of when the games might hit NA. In fact, Marvelous just yesterday said that none of their recently announced games have NA publishers yet.

But it was really meant to be more a joke than an actual insult. I don't actually hate you or anything. Today. :D

Ah. I was just curious. I know you're quick with the sarcasm, so I thoght that was just your way of telling me that what I quoted was hugely misleading. :p

I also saw that bit myself yesterday, when they were saying that No More Heroes: Desperate Struggle didn't have a publisher yet. :(

[Evil Avnovice]

A Siliconera hands-on (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/10/16/muramasa-the-demon-blade-stunning-in-stills-and-stunning-in-motion/) with the TGS 2008 demo.

http://www.siliconera.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/mdb2.jpg

[JayVe]

I curse you for making me want things.

In one scene you’re in fighting on rooftops and in the next you’re inside a dark forest. When enemies appear you automatically draw your sword and when they’re gone Kisuke cooly flips his blade in the air and catches it in his sheath with style. After all the enemies are gone a screen pops up and notifies your of your performance and you’re free to walk to the next area.

At the end of the ten minute demo Kisuke faced a towering red oni. The boss monster took up most of the screen and was also immune to the dodge rolling strategy I was using for most of the demo. When you press down Kisuke rolls past the enemies and you can attack them from behind. The oni was stopped me with his giant foot so I switched to jumping over him with a flurry of air slashes and utilizing the vertical energy slash.

[Evil Avnovice]

As this is taken from Siliconera (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/10/22/muramasa-the-demon-blade-slicing-into-europe-next-november/), Muramasa: The Demon Blade is penned for a "November 2009" release for Europe, according to Rising Star Games. From there, they [Siliconera] speculate that a US date may not be far behind alongside Europe's.

....Marvelous noted Vanillaware would be done with Muramasa: The Demon Blade sometime next year. Rising Star Games, Marvelous’ European arm, is more specific pinning Muramasa: The Demon Blade with a November 2009 release.

While this timing is for Europe Marvelous is trying to synchronize their North American and European release dates for their key titles. Only a month separates the European and North American releases of No More Heroes: Desperate Struggle and Little King’s Story. If the same rule applies to Muramasa: The Demon Blade we might see Xseed publish the game in fall 2009.

[danhoo]

I would probably get this game for the animated Japanese wave painting sequence alone.

[Evil Avnovice]

An interview (http://www.411mania.com/games/features/90598/411-Interview---Muramasa:-The-Demon-Blade-Producer-Yoshifumi-Hashimoto.htm) from 411mania.

Can you tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do at Marvelous?

I used to work on 2D arcade games at a different company. I went drinking with Wata-san, the director of Marvelous, and we decided to work together. So now I'm at Marvelous. After joining, I worked on such titles as Harvest Moon, Rune Factory, and the new Avalon Code.

What role did you have in the creation of the Harvest Moon games?

Wata-san was the executive producer and I was the Producer.

Odin Sphere?

I did not work on that directly.

Alright. Tell us about Muramasa.

It's a Japanese-style action fantasy RPG. Within the Edo period there was another specific period called the Genroku period, and the story takes place in that time. You'll be able to choose between a male and female character.

What are the differences between the male and female characters?

Basically, the female starts from a place called Kyo - it's where Kyoto is today - and she is going to Edo - where Tokyo is now. So she is going up north, and the male character is actually going down from Edo to Kyo. You'll see a little crossover, like in the middle you'll go through a city and you'll see the other character in the back drinking tea or eating.

So they're basically going in reverse?

When you go through the stages, there are some stages where you'll think that there are supposed to be enemies, but there are none, and you don't know why, but when you play the other side, you'll find out that the other player already defeated that enemy and moved on.

Did you want gamers to play one character first and then the other?

It's totally up to the player.

Will the player be satisfied after finishing the game with just one character?

They'll be satisfied, but if they play it again with the other character, they'll see more depth to the story.

I noticed during your playthrough yesterday that the character's swords can break in the middle of battle. What happens if both weapons break down?

You'll be able to hold three katanas at the same time, but if all three break, you'll have to tough it out. But, your swords will recover after a certain amount of time.

Can you tell us about the RPG elements in the game?

First of all, the demo that we showed yesterday and the one that's on the floor - they are more action-oriented. We just put some of the action stages together. The action part is like the encounter in typical RPGs. So in the real game, you'll fight and then you'll be in a section where you can walk and talk to other people. While there you'll be able to set up your items or change your weapons and then go into another section to fight.

Are there going to be sub-missions and stuff like that?

There will be sub-quests. If you talk to certain people, they'll give you a mission, and it's up to you to fulfill that plot if you want.

Tell us a little bit about the story.

Within this world there are swords called the Demon Blades which possesses special powers. The female and male characters want to obtain them for their own purposes. The Japanese mythological creatures that you find in the game are also trying to gain more power.

Were there any games that you got inspiration from?

There isn't a certain one game that I can come up with. Of course, Vanillaware worked on Odin Sphere, and it took place in a more Medieval time. There are a lot of games that take place in that time, so I though that it would be a nice change - a breath of fresh air - to make a Japanese fantasy and have people learn more about different cultures and different mythologies.

A lot of the 2D games these days cater more to the hardcore audience. Is that going to be true for this game? Is it catered to the hardcore - the ones who played games like the original Ninja Gaiden back in the day?

It is a core game. Not as much as Ninja Gaiden, the old series, but more like Legend of Kage and Genpei Toma Den - something in that sense. It's an action game that everybody can play. It does have some difficulty to it, but its simple controls allow you to do great things.

Well, this question is going to be asked eventually, so I might as well get it over with - did you incorporate any motion control elements into the game?

We did have it in the beginning. We might add a little bit, like allow you to use your remote to put your sword back in its sheath - something along those lines just to make things a little more fun.

Thank you for your time. Is there anything else that you wanted to throw in before we go?

I mentioned at the show yesterday that Muramasa is a Japanese style game - style as in the art-style. Vanillaware and Marvelous wanted to make a fantasy game that incorporated Japanese culture. It's not really geared towards Japanese people. I actually think that people abroad who are not familiar with our culture will enjoy this game more because it will be really fresh for them. Also, a lot of people grew up with the games like that i mentioned earlier [Legend of Kage and Genpei Toma Den], so I think they'll have a kick out of playing this game. Please look forward to it.

[Variable Gear]

Wow, Legend of Kage...talk about some retro memories...

I'm going to be all over this when it comes out. :p

[Evil Avnovice]

Gameplay video totaling over eight minutes from Samus Aran's blog (http://www.gamekyo.com/blog_article216597.html) at Gamekyo.

[Evil Avnovice]

A small interview (http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3172066&p=44) from 1up.

1UP: One of our criticisms of the Tokyo Game Show demo was that the combat felt too simple because it only used one button for melee attacks. Do you have any plans to change or evolve the combat in the final version of the game, or are you trying to keep the overall control scheme simplified?

Yoshifumi Hashimoto: The controls are still evolving. You perform attacks with one button, but depending on the distance and which way you move the analog stick you will be able to change the type of attack. Also, the more you play, the more action and [moves] you'll discover. So even though it's the same button, I think players who have been playing a lot -- compared to players who haven't -- will use totally different [moves] and attack methods.

1UP: Given that the TGS demo was mostly combat-based, what kinds of role-playing game aspects can we expect to see?

YH: You're right, the TGS demo was a more encounter-based version and we haven't been able to show the RPG aspects yet. In the final product you'll be able to talk to the villagers, take on quests, and [participate in] other dramatic aspects of the game.

1UP: In a previous interview, you mentioned that you were considering using the motion sensor in the Wii Remote. Have you come to any conclusions about if or how you might use motion controls in the game?

YH: We're still considering using the motion sensor in the Wii Remote. We'll probably think about it up until the last minute in order to determine what will make the game more interesting. In the end, we're aiming to make the game as fun as possible.

1UP: The TGS demo featured a scene that was clearly based off the iconic "Great Wave off Kanagawa" woodblock print. Are you aiming to include more iconic imagery from Japanese art in the game, or was that just a splashy, eye-catching segment for the TGS demo?

YH: Rather than thinking of it as being based off of iconic Japanese art, our intention was to make the game have a clear "Japanese" feel to it. Regarding the scene itself, of course that will be in the game -- it's not just a special segment made for TGS. Our main goal is to make an enjoyable [fantasy game] that not only Japanese players will enjoy but players from other cultures as well.

1UP: Japanese myth is known for its abundance of fantastical creatures. Are all of the enemies and characters specifically based on Japanese mythology, or are you coming up with some of your own as well?

YH: That will be something to figure out by actually playing the game. Of course, people who understand Japanese mythology may enjoy the characters a bit more, but I hope all players will enjoy finding out more about the creatures [they encounter on the journey] that make them think, "I wonder what that is?" We are really taking our time and effort to make every enemy, every blade of grass, with a deep attention to detail.

1UP: Can you share a secret that no one knows about the game yet?

This is still a secret but...In the game there's a tea house and you'll be able to eat traditional Japanese snacks like "Steamed bun" and "rice dumpling." We are currently working on special dot animations that will make these items disappear little by little as you eat them. We wanted to add these types of surprises, even for when you are just resting for a little while.

[Evil Avnovice]

A couple of scans. (True Gaming (http://www.true-gaming.net/boards/showpost.php?p=475558&postcount=59))

[divinechaos]

When I read the title I thought it was a game about the store-owner guy from Ninja Gaiden.

[Evil Avnovice]

According to Siliconera (http://www.siliconera.com/2009/01/30/pick-up-muramasa-the-demon-blade-on-april-9/), Muramasa: The Demon Blade will be available in Japan on April 9, 2009.

[Evil Avnovice]

So! We have a four second teaser trailer and some images/artwork. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/videoen14399_muramasa-the-demon-blade-is-coming-back.html))

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090206_114151_8_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images0_5_14399.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090206_114151_11_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images3_5_14399.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090206_114151_12_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images4_5_14399.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090206_114151_14_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images6_5_14399.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090206_114152_20_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images7_5_14399.html)

[Evil Avnovice]

Another teaser trailer and images/artwork. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/videoen14400_more-pictures-and-video-for-muramasa-the-demon-blade.html))

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090206_114150_2_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images2_5_14400.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090206_114150_3_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images3_5_14400.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090206_114151_16_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images9_5_14400.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090206_114151_17_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images10_5_14400.html)

[Evil Avnovice]

And lastly, a new trailer. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/videoen14401_murasama-the-demon-blade-official-trailer.html))

tBzDnqyg-S4

[Evil Avnovice]

A couple of new images. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen30194_few-images-for-muramasa-the-demon-blade.html))

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090211_131231_0_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images0_4_30194.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090211_131231_1_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images1_4_30194.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090211_131231_2_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images2_4_30194.html)

[Xerxes]

More Wii meh...

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new images/artwork from Famitsu (http://www.famitsu.com/sp/090213_oboro_muramasa/). This is beginning to make me want to import and get an early taste. *willpower fading*

[Evil Avnovice]

The exact same images from the last post, only in Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen30219_new-pictures-for-muramasa-the-demon-blade.html) form.

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090213_092253_0_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images0_4_30219.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090213_092253_4_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images4_4_30219.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090213_092253_5_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images5_4_30219.html)

[Zaro]

Transformation of a Troll. :)

Ummm, yeah I actually like the look of this. I need to play Odin Sphere one of these days.

Oh a wii game? ~_~

More Wii meh...

[Doctor Setebos]

Transformation of a Troll. :)He's getting erratic in his old age. I don't think he realizes that he's already trolled this thread 3 times. ;)

[Xerxes]

Transformation of a Troll. :)

Dammit. Evil needs me. It's his motivation dammit. If I didn't counter act his Wii love he'd never find all these good recon. ;)

[Evil Avnovice]

Some details from GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=72734). This is linked back to a NeoGaf thread (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=337285&page=13).

- Kisuke has lost his memories, and he cannot remember why he is being chased. All he follows is a desire for a certain katana
- Momohime is a princess that was possessed by an evil spirit. She fled her castle due to this
- Two katana types: big katana and long katana
- long katana better in 1-on-1 and aerial battles
- big katana better at taking out multiple enemies
- battles are strategic
- soul gauge allows you to defensive/evasive moves
- when the soul gauge depletes, your weapons break and become less useful
- equip up to 3 katanas
- after time has passed, you can use your sword’s special power (”iai kiri”)
- simply pulling out the weapon will activate the special power
- different katanas hold different powers within them
- game takes place during Genroku era’s Honshuu
- choose which character you want to start as
- Kisuke starts on the west side of the map, Momohime from the east side
- visit towns to meet people, shop, rest, and eat
- travel long distances in little time thanks to boats and other vehicles. You have to pay to use these rides, and keep your wits about you during trips.
- Japanese preorder bonus: 2 meters long, reversible folding screen with artworks printed on it

[Evil Avnovice]

A couple of new images (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen30290_few-images-for-muramasa-the-demon-blade.html) from Gamekyo.

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090218_163607_1_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images1_4_30290.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090218_163608_3_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images2_4_30290.html)

[Xerxes]

Ewwww. Those looks like pictures of a TV screen. Compared to the others, you should have passed on sharing those Evil. :o

[JayVe]

Ewwww. Those looks like pictures of a TV screen. Compared to the others, you should have passed on sharing those Evil. :o

Agreed. They look like they've been taken with a 4-yr-old cameraphone off of a shitty old TV, then blown up and overcompressed. Ugh.

[MalReynolds]

i like the art style ... um gonna guess Wii ?

[Talanvor]

Maybe it won't have the slowdown of Odin Sphere?

I loved that game, but the slowdown really disappointed me.

[Evil Avnovice]

A good portion of images and artwork from Jeux-France (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen30386_new-images-for-muramasa-the-demon-blade.html).

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152044_2_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images2_4_30386.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_7_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images7_4_30386.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_9_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images9_4_30386.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_13_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images13_4_30386.html)

[Urizen]

Safe for work, you think?

[Evil Avnovice]

A batch of new images (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen30407_muramasa-the-demon-blade-more-pictures.html) from Gamekyo.

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090303_120956_13_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images13_4_30407.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090303_120955_0_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images0_4_30407.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090303_120955_3_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images3_4_30407.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090303_120955_9_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images9_4_30407.html)

[JayVe]

Classic controller support confirmed. (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=337285&page=16)


Wiimote + Nunchuk, Classic Controller, and Gamecube controller supported
more than 30 types of stages
108 different sword types
temper swords
variety of special techniques

[Doctor Setebos]

Wiimote + Nunchuk, Classic Controller, and Gamecube controller supportedI'm more interested in this. :D

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new images. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen30472_more-nice-art-work-for-muramasa-the-demon-blade.html))

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090310_234440_12_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images12_4_30472.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090310_234439_1_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images1_4_30472.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090310_234441_15_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images15_4_30472.html)

[MalReynolds]

another wii game that looks wicked but i HATE the controller

[Xerxes]

another wii game that looks wicked but i HATE the controller

Classic controller support confirmed. (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=337285&page=16)


Wiimote + Nunchuk, Classic Controller, and Gamecube controller supported
more than 30 types of stages
108 different sword types
temper swords
variety of special techniques


I'm actually thinking about getting my wii, and putting it back in my room. I mean Madworld, this and a few other Wii games could be enjoyable. Sooner or later. I mean why else did I buy the Wavebird.

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new images. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen30491_some-new-muramasa-pictures.html))

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090313_230433_5_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images4_4_30491.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090313_230435_16_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images15_4_30491.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090313_230433_4_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images3_4_30491.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090313_230433_2_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images1_4_30491.html)

[Xerxes]

THis game really is beautiful. I might have bring my wii out of retirement. I do have a Wavebird.

[JayVe]

Evil Avnovice, thanks again for these awesome screens. This game gets better and better each time I see it!

[Evil Avnovice]

Evil Avnovice, thanks again for these awesome screens. This game gets better and better each time I see it!

You're welcome. :)

[Evil Avnovice]

A few new images (http://www.nintendoeverything.com/?p=12713) from NintendoEverything.

http://www.nintendoeverything.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/mura_db-1.jpg

[Evil Avnovice]

A new trailer. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/videoen14839_new-trailer-for-muramasa-the-demon-blade.html))

[Evil Avnovice]

Four new images (http://www.nintendoeverything.com/?p=13149) from NintendoEverything.

http://www.nintendoeverything.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/mdb-1.jpg

[danhoo]

There still hasn't been any word on a US release for this, has there? Or Fragile either? Damnit, someone needs to bring these over.

[Evil Avnovice]

There still hasn't been any word on a US release for this, has there? Or Fragile either? Damnit, someone needs to bring these over.

Muramasa: I have heard either 2010, or Summer 2009 for North America.
Fragile: Probably never. I read an interview (http://gonintendo.com/?p=71790) on GoNintendo that XSEED had some interest in picking it up for localization, but that's about it.

[danhoo]

Muramasa: I have heard either 2010, or Summer 2009 for North America.
Fragile: Probably never. I read an interview (http://gonintendo.com/?p=71790) on GoNintendo that XSEED had some interest in picking it up for localization, but that's about it.

Summer 2009 would be great. Bummer on Fragile. I should just learn Japanese and collect Play-Asia coupons.

As usual, thanks for the info Avnovice

[Evil Avnovice]

Summer 2009 would be great. Bummer on Fragile. I should just learn Japanese and collect Play-Asia coupons.

As usual, thanks for the info Avnovice

Not a problem. :)

[Evil Avnovice]

Four new images from Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen30657_always-more-for-muramasa-the-demon-blade.html).

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090401_195803_3_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images3_4_30657.html)

[Wraith]

Not sure if this one's been posted yet or not:

New Trailer on Eurogamer (http://www.eurogamer.net/videos/muramasa-the-demon-blade-trailer).

[Evil Avnovice]

A 13 minute gameplay video. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/videoen14887_muramasa-the-demon-blade-new-gameplay-video.html))

Edit: Thank you, Wraith. :)

[quidmonkey]

A 13 minute gameplay video. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/videoen14887_muramasa-the-demon-blade-new-gameplay-video.html))

Edit: Thank you, Wraith. :)

Way too much text.

It will be interesting to compare this with The Dishwasher.

[Evil Avnovice]

Impressions by IGN (http://wii.ign.com/articles/971/971906p1.html).

[Evil Avnovice]

Four new videos.

47979

47978

47977

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[Evil Avnovice]

Five pages of new images. (Gamekult (http://www.gamekult.com/articles/A00000755181/))

[Wraith]

Muramasa: The Demon Art Scroll (http://www.siliconera.com/2009/04/17/muramasa-the-demon-art-scroll/) (Siliconera)http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/cog/mm1.jpg

Marvelous teased an image scroll as a pre-order bonus for Muramasa: The Demon Blade in Japan. Individually, each picture is tiny. Strung together the scroll is over five feet long. Characters are on the front. Enemies and stages are on the back.

Xseed hasn’t said if they will offer the same bonus when Muramasa: The Demon Blade comes out here, but they should! This image scroll is gorgeous.More pics (larger, but fuzzy) at the link.

[danhoo]

Sounds like this might be getting a different US publisher:

http://au.wii.ign.com/articles/974/974308p1.html

I hope this doesn't result in it not making it here :(

[Wraith]

Sounds like this might be getting a different US publisher:

http://au.wii.ign.com/articles/974/974308p1.html

I hope this doesn't result in it not making it here :(
NIS America
Atlus

Either of these will be fine.

[Evil Avnovice]

Nothing wrong with Ignition being the new publisher. :) (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=79873))

Glendale, CA – April 21, 2009 – Ignition Entertainment Ltd., a UTV Enterprise, a worldwide publisher and developer of videogames, in conjunction with Marvelous Entertainment and Vanillaware, today announced the September 2009 U.S. release of the much-anticipated video game, Muramasa: The Demon Blade, exclusively for the Nintendo Wii.

Developed by Vanillaware, the creative team behind the critically acclaimed game Odin Sphere, Muramasa: The Demon Blade is a unique, highly stylized action adventure that showcases a striking visual look and a colorful cast of more than 100 characters. Hailed by Kotaku as “this year’s prettiest, most enticing Wii game,” and by IGN as “the most visually stunning game I’ve ever seen on the Wii,” Muramasa: The Demon Blade features eye-popping hand-drawn 2D art that reflects the heritage and tone of its ancient Japanese storyline. Set in the little-known feudal Genroku era, players are invited to take on the role of a male ninja or female kunoichi, utilizing their prowess to traverse the perilous yet picturesque levels.


“Ignition Entertainment is immensely proud for the opportunity to bring Muramasa: The Demon Blade to the legions of North American gamers yearning for top-quality, original action games on Wii.” said Shane Bettenhausen, New Business Development Director of Ignition Entertainment. “The talented developers at Vanillaware have crafted an absolutely stunning adventure through feudal Japan that balances subtle, sophisticated artistry with razor-sharp, addictive gameplay.”

“We continue to maintain our strong commitment to bring quality games to the marketplace,” said Ajay Chadha, President of Ignition Entertainment. “We feel deeply honored for the opportunity to bring Vanillaware’s magnificent masterpiece Muramasa: The Demon Blade to gamers stateside.”

“We developed Muramasa: The Demon Blade in the same way as we did Odin Sphere, so there are bound to be a lot of similarities. I want it to be a very fun game for everyone who picks it up,” said George Kamitani, game director and Vanillaware President.

Key Game Features:

• Beautiful 2D graphics

• Large variety of environments

• Two playable characters

• Replayability (multiple playable paths throughout the game)

• Supports Wii Remote and Nunchuk, Classic controller, and GameCube controller

• 16:9 widescreen support

• Excellent music and sound

• Timeless side-scrolling game play.

• Optional challenge stages and mini-games throughout

• Satisfying action elements leading to nice depth of combat (Combat is fast yet intuitive)

• Story elements and cut scenes are well integrated and not obtrusive.

[Doctor Setebos]

Nothing wrong with Ignition being the new publisher. :) (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=79873))There's nothing wrong mainly because I don't expect there to be much translating to do in Muramasa. Hopefully Ignition can handle it better than they did with Lux-Pain. ;)

[Evil Avnovice]

There's nothing wrong mainly because I don't expect there to be much translating to do in Muramasa. Hopefully Ignition can handle it better than they did with Lux-Pain. ;)

I was thinking about making a joke with that myself. :p

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new images. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsfr30785_muramasa-the-demon-blade-vient-nous-narguer.html))

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090422_164132_2_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images2_4_30785.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090422_164132_4_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images4_4_30785.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090422_164133_5_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images5_4_30785.html)

[Evil Avnovice]

10+ mintues of gameplay video. (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=80113))

[Evil Avnovice]

It's too late to say "Post 1,600." isn't it? (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen30924_muramasa-the-demon-blade-is-back-with-some-pics.html))

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090504_191855_1_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images1_4_30924.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090504_191855_3_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images3_4_30924.html)

[Evil Avnovice]

A playable build will be available at E3. (NintendoEverything (http://www.nintendoeverything.com/?p=16566))

[Urizen]

Avnovice, did you import this?

[Evil Avnovice]

Avnovice, did you import this?

Nope. I was thinking about it, but since it was long announced for North America, and it would be problematic in terms of following the text, I'll be holding out for a US copy.

[Evil Avnovice]

1:30 of Muramasa E3 2009 gameplay video. (GoNintendo (http://www.gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=84548))

[Urizen]

Hey, Avnovice...

do you know of any site that offers translations of Japanese games' menus and such. I have the opportunity to get my hands on a JPN copy of this game, but have no knowledge of the language. I don't need to understand everything right now, but just want to fool around with it.

The best I found was this (http://ameblo.jp/koulinovesperia/).

And it makes no sense to me.

[Evil Avnovice]

Hey, Avnovice...

do you know of any site that offers translations of Japanese games' menus and such. I have the opportunity to get my hands on a JPN copy of this game, but have no knowledge of the language. I don't need to understand everything right now, but just want to fool around with it.

The best I found was this (http://ameblo.jp/koulinovesperia/).

And it makes no sense to me.

None that I know of. Sorry. :(

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new images. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen31220_muramasa-the-demon-blade-at-appointment.html))

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090603_012305_5_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images5_4_31220.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090603_012305_4_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images4_4_31220.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090603_012304_1_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images1_4_31220.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090603_012304_3_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images3_4_31220.html)

[Evil Avnovice]

E3 2009 "Gameplay Interview" video.

50963

[Evil Avnovice]

IGN interview (http://wii.ign.com/articles/991/991960p1.html).

[Wraith]

Interview: XSEED on what happened with Muramasa and more (http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/interview-xseed-on-what-happened-with-muramasa-and-more/) (Joystiq)JI: Anyway, all licensing and co-publishing deals, finally, are Marvelous's decision. Muramasa, as you know, among their titles, is a big title. So there is a lot of chance to get a good offer.

Marvelous got a lot of good offers from others, and finally, they decided to take that offer, and of course they asked us to allow them to do that, and I said "yeah, okay." It's hard to explain. It oftentimes happens, that kind of situation.

JS: But in short, it wasn't our decision, right? A lot of people I've seen write on Internet forums, you know, "why would XSEED get rid of Muramasa?" Obviously we would love to be publishing that.

JI: No, of course, we'd like to keep it, but we don't have the IP, they have the IP. The final decision is by Marvelous. Of course if they allow us to publish, of course, we'd like to keep that title.

[KamaItachi]

I've decided I'm buying this one based on the art alone.

[Evil Avnovice]

1. Ignition hints that there may be future titles coming from VanillaWare.
2. A pre-order bonus is being considered for the North American version of Muramasa: The Demon Blade. (Siliconera (http://www.siliconera.com/2009/06/08/how-did-ignition-entertainment-end-up-with-muramasa-the-demon-blade/))

[Evil Avnovice]

E3 2009 impressions from Destructoid (http://www.destructoid.com/muramasa-the-demon-blade-interview-hands-on-time-135071.phtml).

XG_HJq84ofI

[Wraith]

Not sure if this has been mentioned yet:

Ignition Discusses Muramasa: The Demon Blade’s Localization (Only Japanese Voice Acting!) (http://www.siliconera.com/2009/06/11/ignition-discusses-muramasa-the-demon-blades-localization-only-japanese-voice-acting/) (Siliconera)“For Muramasa we decided to stick with the original Japanese voices and only localize the text,” Shane Bettenhausen, Business Development Director at Ignition, told Siliconera in a post E3 phone interview. “We felt the game was deeply steeped in Japanese tradition, mythology, and culture that trying to dub it, trying to make something more Western is really not a service to the product.”

“Who wants some goofy anime voices in this game?” Bettenhausen joked.

[Evil Avnovice]

Rising Star Games' page for Muramasa looks to have been bumped from "Spring 2010" to "Winter 2009". (NintendoLife (http://wii.nintendolife.com/news/2009/06/muramasa_the_demon_blade_gets_revised_european_rel ease_date); Rising Star Games (http://www.risingstargames.com/games/muramasa-the-demon-blade-wii.html))

[JayVe]

Not sure if this has been mentioned yet:

Ignition Discusses Muramasa: The Demon Blade’s Localization (Only Japanese Voice Acting!) (http://www.siliconera.com/2009/06/11/ignition-discusses-muramasa-the-demon-blades-localization-only-japanese-voice-acting/) (Siliconera)

This is AWESOME news! I wish more companies took this route, and left in the original actors instead of butchering the voice acting with awful 'westernized' actors.

[Evil Avnovice]

A new trailer. (NintendoLife (http://wii.nintendolife.com/news/2009/06/muramasa_the_demon_blade_gameplay_trailer))

rKl0o3B4Sr4

[Urizen]

Winter 2009?

It's going to get murdered by the holiday rush, when all systems will be competing for gamer's cash. It's got no chance at a holiday release - no matter how good it is. You can't sell a game like this with a small developer and small publisher, especially given its game when heavy hitters are landing days apart.

They are better off pushing it back to 2010.

[Evil Avnovice]

The wall scroll pre-order bonus that was once exclusive to Japan has been announced for the North American version. It's only available at GameStop at the moment. (Siliconera (http://www.siliconera.com/2009/06/29/ignition-gives-art-scroll-as-muramasa-the-demon-blade-pre-order-bonus/))

[Evil Avnovice]

A new trailer:

52335

[Evil Avnovice]

"Kisuke Character Vignette" video:

53875

[Wraith]

IGN Hands-On Preview (http://wii.ign.com/articles/101/1012109p1.html)

[Wraith]

Official website: www.muramasathedemonblade.com

[Badger]

I've decided I'm buying this one based on the art alone.

The game disc could contain nothing but a slideshow of everything Evil Avnovice has posted, and I would buy it.

Will it really look anywhere near that crisp through component cables to HDTV?

[Doctor Setebos]

Will it really look anywhere near that crisp through component cables to HDTV?I'm willing to find that out. :D

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new images from Official Nintendo Magazine UK (http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/article.php?id=10631).

[JayVe]

Will it really look anywhere near that crisp through component cables to HDTV?

It will look better than YouTube videos.

[Xerxes]

It will look better than YouTube videos.

Not much! This is a Wii game. :p

[Evil Avnovice]

"Momohime Character Vignette" video:

54181

[Evil Avnovice]

1. Kisuke Act 2 Gameplay

54217

2. Momohime Act 4 Gameplay

54216

3. Boss Battle Gameplay

54231

4. Multi-Level Gameplay Montage

54232

[Evil Avnovice]

Preview from 1up (http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3175577).

[Evil Avnovice]

Preview from Gamepro (http://www.gamepro.com/video/gameplay/133586/muramasa-the-demon-blade-six-minute-preview/).

[Evil Avnovice]

"Exclusive Locations" trailer:

54273

[Evil Avnovice]

Walkthrough videos:

54401

54402

54403

[Evil Avnovice]

Kisuke gameplay videos:

54404

54405

[Evil Avnovice]

"Chop Chop" trailer:

54821

[Evil Avnovice]

NintendoLife (http://wii.nintendolife.com/news/2009/08/muramasa_the_demon_blade_exclusive_release_party):

What: Muramasa: The Demon Blade Exclusive Release Party in NYC

Who: Ignition Entertainment and the Nintendo World Store

When: September 5, 2009 from 12pm-3pm ET

Where: Nintendo World Store 10 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10020

Ignition Entertainment is partnering with the Nintendo World Store in New York City, to host the must-attend exclusive release party for one of 2009’s most anticipated video games – MURAMASA: THE DEMON BLADE.

Open to the public, the Nintendo World Store located at 10 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City will have its interior completely redesigned to look like feudal Japan in celebration of the release of Muramasa: The Demon Blade exclusively for the Nintendo Wii. The first 100 customers to buy Muramasa will receive limited edition t-shirts, tattoos, collectable postcards and a scroll with original artwork from the game.

The Party will include:

-Exclusively selling games early on Sept. 5th for NWS customers, supplies limited – Each purchase will come with an exclusive special gift

-Nintendo World Store transformed into feudal Japan with authentic lamps, art, plastic samurai swords, and more!

-The Nintendo World Store will be giving out 10% off coupons week before the release event

-Muramasa themed characters in costume performing action sequences from the game

-Limited edition Muramasa t-shirts

-Gameplay, trailers and original music from Muramasa

-Kanji station where attendees can have their names written in Japanese Calligraphy

-Photo-op stage by I AM 8-BIT where attendees can take a picture in front of a stage from the game, and take home as a souvenir

-Game kiosks with Muramasa

-Limited promotional bags filled with Muramasa goodies such as an exclusive Muramasa t-shirt and tattoos. Come early because they will run out quickly!

[JayVe]

Yanno, the bus to NYC is only $30 from here. Why not? Lemmie see if the Mrs is up for a little adventure. Anyone else game for a NYC meetup?

[Evil Avnovice]

1. "Boss Battles" trailer

54921

2. "Skills Showcase" trailer

55140

[Telefrog]

Play magazine cover (http://playmagazine.com/temp/play-sept09-cover.jpg) MAY BE NSFW.

Shane Bettenhausen defends the cover:

At the end of our interview, Kamitani allowed us to see a work-in-progress version of the exclusive art he was working on for the magazine. Neither Ignition Entertainment nor Play Magazine had given him any specific direction regarding what to paint: We wanted his creativity to flow freely. What we saw was jaw dropping: A gorgeous, evocative, and titillating image of Momohime battling the game's massive (and secret) octopus boss. The inspiration was clear: Kamitani obviously references the famous Edo-era Japanese print “The Dream of the Fisherman's Wife,” a subtly erotic masterpiece that inspired countless imitators. Fine art is certainly subjective, and Kamitani's creation dares to be edgy and outrageous, but it's unquestionably lovely and fits the game's themes perfectly. Everyone in the room was thrilled, and we shared a collective laugh when Kamitani revealed that his wife was a little surprised to see what he'd been painting in his studio for the last few weeks.


The Dream of the Fisherman's Wife (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dream_of_the_Fisherman's_Wife) ALSO MAY BE NSFW

[Evil Avnovice]

Further impressions from IGN (http://wii.ign.com/articles/101/1019741p1.html).

[Evil Avnovice]

"Exclusive Destiny" trailer:

55210

[Urizen]

Play magazine cover (http://playmagazine.com/temp/play-sept09-cover.jpg) MAY BE NSFW.

Classy tentacle porn. Two great tastes that taste great together.

[Cactaur]

Its nice, but the extreme foreshortening on the leg & foot is kinda off putting.

[Evil Avnovice]

Played a little of this last night. This game is G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S. Playing Momohime's side, I've already done two boss fights.

[Tayaya]

Played a little of this last night. This game is G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S. Playing Momohime's side, I've already done two boss fights.

Whaaaaaaaaat? How did you get a copy already?

[Evil Avnovice]

Whaaaaaaaaat? How did you get a copy already?

I pre-ordered Muramasa at least two weeks in advance before the game's release. I got a text message from GameStop last Wednesday that said that my copy would be available for pickup for Friday that same week. I know that the release date was hovering between Sept 1 and Sept 8.

I guess they happened to have gotten it for the 1st.

On-topic: On Act 7 now.

[Abyssion]

My copy shipped on Friday and I should get it tomorrow. I can't wait to play it.

[Evil Avnovice]

Got whipped twice during the final boss fight. Now I'm hanging around the final area, gaining levels and forging more powerful Muramasa to wield.

[Camel]

Whaaaaaaaaat? How did you get a copy already?
Gamefly started shipping the game out late last week too. The release date said the 9th, and then all of a sudden it was available early. I might have sent back a game a little earlier had I known, but I'm not exactly chomping at the bit to play this game (although I am definitely looking forward to playing it, don't get me wrong).

[Tayaya]

Am I the only one that's doing Kisuke first? I've been waiting for this game for so very long, and told myself I'd do momohime first, but for some reason I got the feeling that if I played the game through and finished it with her I'd never bother to go back to do Kisuke.

So far I've no regrets.... I'm liking him as a character and this game is definitely the best thing I've played on my Wii in a very long time. Loving it so far (only on Act 2, though.... I dunno how Avnovice steamrolled through it so fast!)

[Abyssion]

Am I the only one that's doing Kisuke first? I've been waiting for this game for so very long, and told myself I'd do momohime first, but for some reason I got the feeling that if I played the game through and finished it with her I'd never bother to go back to do Kisuke.

So far I've no regrets.... I'm liking him as a character and this game is definitely the best thing I've played on my Wii in a very long time. Loving it so far (only on Act 2, though.... I dunno how Avnovice steamrolled through it so fast!)

I'm gonna switch with each character. Since I just started today and got a little ways into act 2 with Momohime, tomorrow I'll play a little into act 2 with Kisuke. I figured I would do it this way since the sword forging tree kinda joins between the two characters.

It's a very cool game so far. I am a bit lost with Momohime's story though, I don't think I missed any cutscenes...

[Evil Avnovice]

....(I dunno how Avnovice steamrolled through it so fast!)

I'm playing on the "Normal" difficulty. And if you've played Odin Sphere, Muramasa isn't a long game. While I'm at the end, I spent some time revisiting areas I passed during my initial playthrough, taking in the sights and searching for bonus items.

[Urizen]

I'm not going to be able to touch this until the end of the month. My copy should arrive next week, though.

You guys are trying to make me not visit this thread, but I'm going to continue to do so with the hope of getting legitimate impressions rather than bits and pieces of people's progress through the game.

[Tayaya]

You guys are trying to make me not visit this thread, but I'm going to continue to do so with the hope of getting legitimate impressions rather than bits and pieces of people's progress through the game.

Impressions: G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S visuals, controls that are odd at first but fit naturally once you get the hang of them. Classic Controller support which is a plus and the way I'm playing the game. Wonderful music. Excellent overall theme that really melds traditional Japanese folklore and art with a fun 2-D action/exploration pseudo RPG hybrid. Great boss battles that while they tend to run a little long, always impress and are always fun (well, so far anyway). It's the first Wii game that's made me upset that I'm here at work instead of at home playing it.

Combat could be likened to something like Okami in that the game switches to "battle mode" when enemies are present and tallies up your results when finished. While that was the one thing I didn't like about Okami, and I don't much care for it here, the game is still great just as Okami was. I just think it would "flow" better if it didn't have that start/stop feel to it at times.

Overall I'm quite happy with the game, and if you're already familiar with Vanillaware's other titles then I may dare to say this is their best work yet..... but I want to finish it before I lay down that judgement.

[Urizen]

Well, thanks for that.

Any game that reminds the discerning player of work by Clover Studio is a big plus. I had high hopes for this game, but not Okami high. Can't wait until I get my time with this one.

[Evil Avnovice]

Completed Momohime's story. Now I'm working on Kisuke's.

[Evil Avnovice]

Currently on Kisuke's final act. I notice that his story is more challenging than Momohime's.

And the hot springs are very cool in their exchanges when the two run into each other or chat with other passerby perusing the baths.

[Evil Avnovice]

Completed Kisuke's storyline. Next stop: Bonus content!!

[Tayaya]

I hate you, Avnovice. I haven't been able to play any more this week and am out of town all weekend. And NOW you say there's BONUS Content... die in a fire.

[Ravenlock]

Just picked this up tonight and played about an hour of Kisuke's storyline, past the first boss (re-played a couple areas before getting to that boss to level up and get items, though).

Absolutely stunned at how gorgeous the game is, and really loving the combo system. Getting through an area after using 2 or even all 3 of your blades, not getting hit once, and racking up 100+ combo hits just feels goddamned awesome.

I think this is going to become a favorite fast. :D

[BLeeP]

Played through the first two boss fights tonight and had quite a bit of fun with it. I can see where the combat would get repetitive, but I'm enjoying it enough. In a way, the game reminds of me of The Legend of Spyro: Eternal Night for the GBA (probably one of the most overlooked games ever. If you are going to make a game this good, call it something else so it doesn't get dragged down by pedigree. Also, I'm sure it didn't help that it was released at the end of the GBA's lifespan) although I think Spyro had more combos to pull off.

Surprisingly, I find the music catching my ears here and there. Pretty pleasant.

[Ravenlock]

Yeah, the music makes me happy as well. I'm also a little surprised (pleasantly) by how Metroidvania-esque the map is. Lots of games seem to be doing that (well, Shadow Complex anyhow), but it's a formula that works and I have no problem at all seeing it brought into new awesome games.

[Evil Avnovice]

Spoiler! Skip over this!

Tried some of the shrines that were previous inaccessible due to not having the proper muramasa to dispel the white barriers, and these are extremely tough. They're like the others, but with an almost infinite wave of enemies thrown at you.

The ones that are really cool involve three imposing bosses thrown together, or taking an already challenging boss fight from Kisuke/Momohime's story....and adding another of the same type. :eek:

I also love that, with what seems to be a nod to Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, you can explore the area that the other character previously traversed that you weren't able to, after completing the game.

[Evil Avnovice]

Handled a ton of bonus dungeons with Kisuke and snagged a few additional muramasa in the process, opening parts of his forge tree that I couldn't get the first time around.

Oh, and this will head to Europe in Winter 2009, courtesy of Rising Star Games (http://www.risingstargames.com/games/muramasa-the-demon-blade-wii.html).

[JayVe]

This game is so sweet/ I'm about 5 hours in and only level 15 or so. Loving every moment of it. Some boss battles I've only won by the skin of my teeth!

[Evil Avnovice]

I've cleared all the bonus shrines with Kisuke. Now I need to do it with Momohime, now that I can equip some of the more powerful muramasa.

If I didn't mention it already, the bonus shrines that are protected by white barriers are TOUGH but satisfying when you complete them. :D

One of these days I might even be tempted to re-fire up Odin Sphere.

[Spigot]

How'd I miss this thread?

I finally sat down yesterday and really sunk a lot of quality time into it. Went from something like level 8 to level 24. I'm on about Act 6 or so of Monohime's story and am loving it. The only thing I wish for is a soundtrack so I can listen to it in my car.

[Wraith]

European release date: Nov. 13 (http://www.destructoid.com/muramasa-confirmed-for-europe-on-november-13-151476.phtml).

[Spigot]

Awesome game, by the way. I'm on the final act of Monohime's story and Act 3 or so of Kitsuke's.

[Urizen]

Playing through Kisuke's story. Act 9. Level 38, I think.

Lots of polish. Great soundtrack. Steeped in Japanese mythology. I clearly need to find out what the all was is about Odin Sphere.

[Spigot]

Playing through Kisuke's story. Act 9. Level 38, I think.

Lots of polish. Great soundtrack. Steeped in Japanese mythology. I clearly need to find out what the all was is about Odin Sphere.Yeah, I've got Monohime up to about 47 or so.

I adore the soundtrack. I wish they would release it either as a CD or as a freebie downloadable. It's just a crime not to have it in MP3 format.

I have to say that I like Muramasa more than I enjoyed Odin Sphere. They streamlined a lot of the stuff that slowed down progression in Odin Sphere, but now that I've pretty much played through at least half of Muramasa, I feel the need to get back to Odin Sphere after many a year of not playing it.

[Evil Avnovice]

From Muramasa'a Facebook page:

Join Ignition Entertainment for livestreaming gameplay of Muramasa: The Demon Blade on justin.tv/ignitionusa on the freaky Friday before Halloween, 10/30/09 3pm PST. Enter the spooky live chat & be entered to win a copy of the game, a Muramasa st...rategy guide, or wall scroll! Hosts include Shane Bettenhausen of Ignition Entertainment and Mike Prasad of GirlGamer! Ask questions, win prizes, and discuss strategies for defeating the demons and ghouls of Muramasa!

[Variable Gear]

I have to say that I like Muramasa more than I enjoyed Odin Sphere. They streamlined a lot of the stuff that slowed down progression in Odin Sphere, but now that I've pretty much played through at least half of Muramasa, I feel the need to get back to Odin Sphere after many a year of not playing it.
Princess Crown was the precursor to Odin Sphere just as Odin Sphere was the precursor to Muramasa.

However, Muramasa would have been released a lot sooner if a Japanese publisher would have been willing to pick it up. Kamitani-san had the concept for Muramasa in mind for more than a decade.
From Muramasa'a Facebook page...
I saw that too. As a Shane Bettenhausen fan, I'm really looking forward to the Halloween stream. It should be pretty spooktacular.

[Spigot]

Did Princess Crown ever see release outside of Japan?

[Variable Gear]

Did Princess Crown ever see release outside of Japan?
No but...well, you know...

[Evil Avnovice]

Muramasa'a Facebook page has been updated with a Nintendo Power interview (http://www.facebook.com/notes/muramasa-the-demon-blade/muramasas-george-kamitani-interview-in-nintendo-power/182953748188) with George Kamitani.

[Evil Avnovice]

Muramasa's Facebook page has announced that the game can be had as part of Amazon's Black Friday deals for $34.98 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001HB7K6I/ref=s9_blfr_bw_tr05?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-6&pf_rd_r=0JFM0XNCXP1BWY6801SB&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=501298131&pf_rd_i=384082011).

[Wraith]

http://tomopop.com/ul/11646-wipe-the-drool-off-your-face-for-alter-s-momohime/10112870a2-550x.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/muramasa_figure01.jpg


http://tomopop.com/wipe-the-drool-off-your-face-for-alter-s-momohime-11646.phtml

[Spigot]

That's so right it's wrong. Me wanty.