Japan’s yokai culture is rich with fascinating and eerie creatures, there is an enigmatic yokai known as Itsumade. With its chilling cry and otherworldly appearance, Itsumade has been feared and remembered for centuries. Even in modern times, it continues to intrigue, making an appearance in ‘Nioh 2’. In this article, we’ll explore the origins, features, and legends of Itsumade, as well as its depiction in the game!
The Origins of Itsumade: A Historical Legend
Itsumade in Nioh 2 is always strong.
I usually don’t want to fight with it…
I know.
Then let’s learn about the Yokai and know its weak point!
The Tale of a Frightening Bird
The story of Itsumade dates back to the autumn of 1334 (Kenmu 1) during a time when Japan was ravaged by a deadly epidemic. Many succumbed to illness, leaving communities devastated. Amid this turmoil, a strange and terrifying bird began appearing nightly above the Shishinden, a palace structure in Kyoto.
This mysterious creature let out a haunting cry that sounded like, “Itsumade? Itsumade?”, which translates to “How long? How long?” The cry struck fear into the hearts of those who heard it. It seemed as though the yokai was asking how long the epidemic would last or how many more lives it would claim.
This legend was recorded in historical texts such as ‘Taiheiki’, cementing Itsumade as a symbol of fear and misfortune during this dark period in Japanese history.
What Does Itsumade Look Like?
Itsumade’s appearance is unforgettable and unnervingly grotesque, as described in historical accounts:
- Face: It has a human-like face with eerie, unsettling expressions.
- Beak and Teeth: A curved beak houses sharp, saw-like teeth.
- Body: The body resembles that of a snake, long and slithering.
- Claws: The feet are equipped with sharp claws, as sharp as swords, capable of inflicting deadly wounds.
- Wingspan: Its wingspan measures 1 jō 6 shaku (approximately 4.8 meters), large enough to generate loud sounds and strong winds as it takes flight.
Its fearsome appearance and chilling cry cemented its status as a yokai associated with calamity and death.
Itsumade in ‘Nioh 2’
Itsumade makes an appearance in ‘Nioh 2’, a game known for featuring many creatures from Japanese folklore. In the game, Itsumade’s eerie presence and unique traits are brought to life, making it a memorable foe for players.
- Appearance in the Game: True to its legend, Itsumaden in ‘Nioh 2’ has a giant wingspan, a human-like face, and terrifying claws.
- Battle Mechanics: It attacks from the air, swooping down on players with razor-sharp claws and a venomous assault. Players need to prepare carefully to take on this challenging enemy.
- Cultural Significance: By including Itsumaden, the game gives players a deeper appreciation of Japanese folklore and its yokai legends.
‘Nioh 2’ serves as an excellent platform to bring traditional yokai like Itsumade to a global audience, keeping their stories alive in modern entertainment.
Conclusion
Itsumade is a unique and fearsome yokai with a fascinating history rooted in Japanese folklore. Its haunting cry and grotesque appearance made it a symbol of fear during times of plague. Even today, through its depiction in games like ‘Nioh 2,’ Itsumade continues to captivate and terrify.
Exploring yokai like Itsumade offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. The next time you encounter Itsumade—whether in folklore or games—take a moment to reflect on its eerie but fascinating origins.
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