How to Solve the Mask Puzzle in Onimusha: Way of the Sword
Stuck in the Underground Laboratory? Here is the exact sequence to unlock the Unsettling Mask.
Players navigating the dark corridors of Onimusha: Way of the Sword have encountered a significant roadblock in the Underground Laboratory. The mask puzzle, a central challenge within the 'What Lurks in the Shadows' mission, requires a precise sequence of actions to unlock a vital story item.
To progress, players must shoot four hanging masks in a specific order. The correct shooting sequence, counting from left to right, is: Third, Fourth, First, and then Second. Successfully completing this sequence unlocks a cage containing the 'Unsettling Mask,' a key item necessary for further exploration.
The Return of Onimusha
Onimusha: Way of the Sword marks the first entry in the samurai action series in approximately two decades. Developed by Capcom, the title places players in the role of Miyamoto Musashi within a dark-fantasy reimagining of Edo-era Kyoto. The game launched in September 2026 across a wide array of platforms, including PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and the Nintendo Switch 2.
Why the Puzzle Matters
While much of the game focuses on high-intensity combat, the mask puzzle stands out as one of the few genuine environmental puzzles in the experience. It serves as a critical gatekeeper for the narrative; without the 'Unsettling Mask,' players cannot unlock a previously sealed door, effectively halting progress in the main story. This design choice forces players to shift from the game's typical action pace to a more observant, methodical approach to solve the laboratory's riddle.
What to Watch For
As players continue through the 'What Lurks in the Shadows' quest, the acquisition of the 'Unsettling Mask' is the primary objective for those stuck in the Underground Laboratory. While the shooting order is now well-documented, players should remain attentive to similar environmental cues as they move deeper into Kyoto's fantasy landscape to uncover further secrets. This shift toward environmental storytelling suggests that Capcom intends to blend the series' traditional action with more cerebral challenges as the plot unfolds, rewarding those who explore the laboratory's periphery before rushing toward the exit.