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A Vanillaware classic returns next year for modern platforms. Muramasa is back, and packing some key improvements.
Muramasa returns
One of Vanillaware’s best-loved titles is coming back for (most) modern platforms. And for the first time ever, we’re talking about the PC too. We had no idea that it was the case, but apparently the developer has never had a game appear on that platform. And so Muramasa: Revenant Blades will be the first. That’s the title now by the way, for what’ll be a new version of Muramasa: Rebirth.
That’s not exactly the original version of the 2D action/RPG that appeared on the Wii way back in 2009. Rebirth is the PS Vita version of the game, which appeared in 2013. As for the line thereafter though, well, it didn’t exactly go anywhere.
So if you’ve wanted to play Muramasa on a modern platform, hang on, because thanks to publisher Marvelous USA, it’s on the way.
Deep in Japan’s past, a great conflict erupts over the ownership of fabled and powerful samurai swords forged by the legendary Senji Muramasa. These swords grant their owner both incredible power and a madness that can be sated only by blood. As various factions clash over these mythical weapons, demons and evil spirits drawn to the bloodshed rampage across the land. These fables explore the fates of six diverse characters whose lives are thrown into chaos by these revenant blades.
Marvelous USA press release
Refreshing a legend
As you can see, this new edition of Muramasa won’t quite be the same one you remember. Momohime and Kisuke are back to lead the way as playable characters, but remember that this is a revision of the PS Vita version. That means that the heroes will be joined by the formerly Vita-locked Okoi, Gonbe, Arashimaru, and Rajaki. Even better, Marvelous USA says that all six stories will be available for play right at the start.
Along with that, Muramasa: Revenant Blades will feature a full English voiceover, updated controls, “over 100 swords to forge”, and a full skill set. Players will be able to “upgrade, master, and customize” the latter. Add in new modes of play, and of course updated graphics in 4K, and the result is sounding pretty sharp.
Unfortunately it will be a little while until you’ll actually get to play Muramasa: Revenant Blades. The title won’t be out until early 2027, when it’ll arrive for the Switch/Switch 2, PS5, and PC. Nope, there won’t be an Xbox version apparently, though we’ll let you know if that changes. Also worth a mention here is that the game will offer a Limited Edition.
That special package will include “a copy of the game, a collectible art book filled with Vanillaware’s gorgeous artwork, a limited CD soundtrack featuring select tracks from the score composed by the renowned Basiscape, and a 10”x14” byōbu folding screen featuring even more stunning Vanillaware visuals”.
Look for pre-orders to go live soon for both versions of the game, via the “Marvelous USA Online Store and participating retailers”.
