Quick Answer
The story follows Miyamoto Musashi through a Kyoto overrun by Genma. Bound to an Oni Gauntlet inhabited by the Oni Lady, he meets Takamura and Okuni and faces his rival, Sasaki Ganryu. Their story unfolds between city visits and dedicated mission areas. The campaign has one ending; the final section below explains how to reach it and what remains available afterward.
- Setting
- Edo-period Kyoto
- Main character
- Miyamoto Musashi
- Central power
- Oni Gauntlet
- Ending section
- Spoilers below
A swordsman drawn into Kyoto’s struggle
Musashi’s journey brings his swordsmanship up against the Genma spreading through Kyoto. The Oni Gauntlet gives him a way to fight these supernatural enemies, while the Oni Lady inside it becomes a constant presence on his route.
The campaign moves between encounters in Kyoto and larger mission areas such as Kiyomizu-dera, the Underground Laboratory and Mount Oe. Return visits give the supporting cast room to advance the story; the next fight is only one part of what Musashi is being asked to do.
The people to keep track of
| Character | Role in the story | What to follow |
|---|---|---|
| Miyamoto Musashi | The swordsman you play | How he handles the power and responsibility of the Oni Gauntlet |
| Oni Lady | The spirit inside his gauntlet | Her guidance and connection to the Oni |
| Ono no Takamura | An experienced swordsman and ally | His role in helping Musashi understand the supernatural conflict |
| Izumo no Okuni | A kabuki dancer drawn into the conflict | Her involvement in Kyoto and the people Musashi meets |
| Sasaki Ganryu | Musashi’s rival | The personal rivalry that runs alongside the Genma threat |
Follow the story without losing the route
Way of the Sword is the main-story category in the mission log. Mysteries of Kyoto and Chance Encounters are separate side-quest groups. They add local stories and rewards, so choose them when you want to explore more of the city or work toward a particular item.
For directions, open the Main Quest Guide and match its named mission to the one on your save. That page covers what to do at the major progression stops; this page keeps the focus on the people and story.
Ending spoilers — the finale and what follows
The campaign has one ending. Completing optional quests or collecting charms does not select a different ending route. Keep a separate manual save before accepting The Clash at Rendaino and its point-of-no-return prompt.
After the credits, Continue returns you before the final mission for unfinished activities. New Game Plus starts another campaign, with Carnage available after the first clear. Check the carryover table before starting again: learned skills, charm enhancements and equipment levels do not all follow the same rules.
Direct answers
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to complete every side quest for the ending?
No. The campaign has one ending. Side quests provide their own rewards and completion goals.
What is the final mission?
The Clash at Rendaino. Save separately before accepting its point-of-no-return prompt.
Can I return to exploration after the credits?
Yes. Choose Continue to return to before the final mission.