Unmasking the Mystery: A Guide to Solving the Mask Puzzle in Onimusha: Way of the Sword

In our quest to rescue Hinagiku and uncover the secrets within Nijo-jo Castle, Musashi, with Okuni’s guidance, finds himself facing a perplexing challenge: the mask puzzle. This intricate lock guards a crucial path forward in the “What Lurks in the Shadows” quest, leading to Dokyo’s escape route. But how do you unravel this visual enigma? Fear not, brave warriors, for we shall illuminate the way.

Deciphering the Visual Clues

After navigating the winding paths following the locked door near Underground Level Three Spirit Mirror, you’re confronted with a room dominated by four masks suspended from the ceiling. Replicas of these same masks adorn the windows beside the entrance. While a quick answer awaits in the next section, understanding the puzzle’s logic is key to mastering Onimusha: Way of the Sword.

Your objective is to fire arrows at these hanging masks in a specific sequence. An incorrect order will reset the puzzle, forcing you to re-evaluate your approach. The most crucial hint lies within the masks themselves – pay close attention to their details.

Image: Capcom via Polygon

If you’re finding it difficult to discern the solution, consider this: focus on the masks positioned on the wall near the entrance. By observing them from a different angle, you’ll notice that spotlights highlight unique features of each mask, providing subtle clues to their correct order.

Image: Capcom via Polygon

The Solution Unveiled

The solution to the mask puzzle in Onimusha: Way of the Sword hinges on the number of orifices displayed by each mask’s shadow when viewed from outside the room. This number dictates the order in which you must strike the masks with your bow, progressing from first to fourth.

Image: Capcom via Polygon

1. The third mask (green mask with wavy red stripes)
2. The fourth mask (red mask with black details)
3. The first mask (yellow mask with wavy purple stripes)
4. The second mask (purple with yellow wavy stripes)

For those still struggling, here’s a visual aid to guide your aim:

Graphic: Paulo Kawanishi/Polygon | Source images: Capcom

Successfully completing the puzzle will cause a cage below the masks to open, revealing the Unsettling Mask. Place this mask in the door’s mechanism near the Spirit Mirror to unlock the path forward and continue your journey through Nijo-jo Castle.