How to Solve the Mask Puzzle in Onimusha: Way of the Sword

To progress through the "What Lurks in the Shadows" quest in Onimusha: Way of the Sword and locate Hinagiku, players must solve a mask puzzle blocking a door within Nijo-jo Castle. This puzzle is encountered after passing the Underground Level Three Spirit Mirror and entering a room with a locked door featuring a smiling face.

The puzzle involves interacting with four masks that hang from the ceiling in a specific room. Beside the entrance to this area, replicas of these masks are affixed to four windows. The core mechanic of the puzzle requires players to fire arrows at the hanging masks in a precise sequence. Failure to achieve the correct order will reset the masks to their original positions.

All necessary clues for solving the puzzle are present within the room itself, particularly concerning the masks. A key hint involves observing the masks on the wall by the entrance. When viewed from a different perspective, spotlights illuminating these masks reveal unique features on each one. These highlighted features provide the crucial information needed to determine the correct firing order.

The solution to the mask puzzle hinges on the number of orifices visible on each mask's shadow when viewed from outside the room through the corresponding window. This count dictates the order in which the masks must be struck with an arrow, from first to fourth.

The correct sequence for striking the masks, proceeding from left to right, is as follows:

First, the third mask, identified by its green color and wavy red stripes.

Second, the fourth mask, which is red with black details.

Third, the first mask, characterized by its yellow color and wavy purple stripes.

Finally, the second mask, distinguished by its purple color and yellow wavy stripes.

Successfully executing this order will cause a cage beneath the masks to open, allowing the player to retrieve the Unsettling Mask. This item is essential for unlocking the door by placing it into the mechanism near the Spirit Mirror, thereby enabling further exploration within the castle.