A beautiful fast based 2D side scrolling game cleverly disguised as a work of art.

User Rating: 8.5 | Oboro Muramasa WII
If Muramasa was based solely on the graphical elements, it would get a perfect score; alas, it also happens to be a video game. With some amazing graphics complementing the gameplay, Muramasa may not be for every one, but everyone should give it a shot.

The idea behind the gameplay for Muramasa is simple 2D hack and slash. It's fun and fast pace. The combos that can be done are simplistic, but depth is added through all of the different blades that are weildable and the special abilities that they have. And in the harder two difficulties (if you want a challenge) this adds a large amount of strategy to the fighting taking it from the simple only press the attack button strategy. Also implemented into the formula are slight RPG elements. You can level up, cook some food, and make new weapons; however, these elements are very light so at it's core this game is a pure 2D action adventure. Despite what one might think about the Wii controls being a hinderence, once you get use to them they work perfectly.

The game features two stories: Kisuke and Mohime. Neither of the stories are very deep or enthralling, but it pushes the narrative forward to keep you playing. Plus, together they can add up to a sizable adventure of what I'd estimate at 12 hours. This is the main story alone though, going through to collect all the blades and see all the secret endings adds a hefty chunk of time to the game's length.

The graphics as beautifully rendered and extremely artistic. Some of the best I've seen in a video game as far as art direction go. I really don't need to go further into this, even the game's cover speaks for itself here. The voice's in this game are the original Japanese voice overs which jives great with the game's style.

My critiques for this game are few and far between. There are no glaring faults or areas that need improvement. Sure the story could have been better but in a game like this the story really isn't all that important.

So if your looking for one of the best side scrollers on the market (or something to make your tv look pretty) it's got to be Muramasa; hands down.
I'd be reluctant to say it has something for everyone, but it certainly could keep many people entertained for hours on end. Bottom line, it's a good game.