Publisher: Koei

Nobunaga no Yabou: Haouden (1994)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 4 minutes read

Summary

Nobunaga no Yabou: Haouden (1994)

Introduction

Nobunaga no Yabou: Haouden is a strategy game developed by Koei and released for the PlayStation 2 in 2003. It is the eighth installment in the Nobunaga’s Ambition series, and the first to be released on a home console. Haouden is set in the Sengoku period of Japanese history, and players take on the role of a daimyo, or feudal lord, tasked with conquering Japan and uniting the country under their rule.

Gameplay

Haouden’s gameplay is similar to that of other games in the Nobunaga’s Ambition series. Players begin by choosing a daimyo to play as, and then must conquer and control provinces in order to expand their territory. Players can do this by raising armies and engaging in battle with other daimyo, or by using diplomacy to form alliances and trade agreements.

One of the unique features of Haouden is its large-scale battles. These battles can involve thousands of troops, and players must carefully manage their forces in order to achieve victory. Players can also use a variety of tactics to gain an advantage in battle, such as flanking the enemy, using terrain to their advantage, and calling in reinforcements.

In addition to conquering provinces and fighting battles, players must also manage their kingdom’s economy and diplomacy. Players must collect taxes, build new structures, and research new technologies in order to keep their kingdom running smoothly. Players must also carefully manage their relationships with other daimyo, as alliances and trade agreements can be essential for success.

Graphics and Sound

Haouden’s graphics are impressive for a PlayStation 2 game. The game’s character models are detailed and expressive, and the environments are lush and realistic. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, and it features a mix of traditional Japanese music and more modern orchestral pieces.

Reception

Haouden was a critical and commercial success. The game received positive reviews from critics, who praised its deep gameplay, beautiful graphics, and epic battles. The game was also a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Haouden is considered to be one of the best strategy games ever made. The game’s success helped to popularize the Nobunaga’s Ambition series in the West, and it has inspired a number of sequels and spin-offs. Haouden is still played by many fans today, and it remains a classic of the strategy genre.

Conclusion

Nobunaga no Yabou: Haouden is a masterpiece of the strategy genre. The game’s deep gameplay, beautiful graphics, and epic battles make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Nobunaga’s Ambition series or a newcomer to the genre, Haouden is a game that you won’t want to miss.

Additional Information

  • Haouden was the first game in the Nobunaga’s Ambition series to be released on a home console.
  • The game was developed by Koei, a Japanese video game company known for its historical strategy games.
  • Haouden was released in Japan in 2003, and in North America and Europe in 2004.
  • The game was a critical and commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.
  • Haouden has been praised for its deep gameplay, beautiful graphics, and epic battles.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Dynasty Warriors 5: Xtreme Legends (2005)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Dynasty Warriors 5: Xtreme Legends: A Legendary Expansion

Introduction

Released in 2005, Dynasty Warriors 5: Xtreme Legends is a standalone expansion to the critically acclaimed Dynasty Warriors 5. Developed by Omega Force and published by Koei, Xtreme Legends offers a plethora of new content and enhancements that build upon the core gameplay of its predecessor.

Gameplay

At its heart, Dynasty Warriors 5: Xtreme Legends is a hack-and-slash action game that puts players in control of legendary warriors from ancient China. Players must battle their way through hordes of enemy soldiers, using a variety of melee weapons and special abilities. The game features a wide range of characters, each with their own unique fighting style and abilities.

Xtreme Legends introduces several new gameplay modes to the Dynasty Warriors formula. Xtreme Mode is a challenging survival mode where players must defeat increasingly difficult waves of enemies. Legend Mode is a story-driven mode that follows the exploits of specific characters from the Three Kingdoms period. Destiny Mode is a new mode that allows players to create their own custom officer and fight alongside one of the three kingdoms.

Content

Dynasty Warriors 5: Xtreme Legends features a massive roster of over 50 playable characters, including all of the characters from Dynasty Warriors 5 as well as several new additions. The game also includes a variety of new weapons, items, and stages.

One of the most significant additions to Xtreme Legends is the inclusion of Xtreme Mode. This mode challenges players to survive against increasingly difficult waves of enemies. Players must carefully manage their resources and abilities in order to survive. Xtreme Mode is a great way to test one’s skills and to earn rare rewards.

Another new addition to Xtreme Legends is Legend Mode. This mode tells the stories of specific characters from the Three Kingdoms period. Legend Mode is a great way to learn more about the history and lore of Dynasty Warriors.

Finally, Xtreme Legends introduces Destiny Mode. This mode allows players to create their own custom officer and fight alongside one of the three kingdoms. Destiny Mode is a great way to experience the game from a different perspective.

Graphics and Sound

Dynasty Warriors 5: Xtreme Legends features updated graphics and sound over its predecessor. The game’s visuals are more detailed and vibrant, and the character models are more lifelike. The game’s sound effects and music are also top-notch, and they help to create an immersive and exciting atmosphere.

Reception

Dynasty Warriors 5: Xtreme Legends was met with positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its豐富的內容, challenging gameplay, and beautiful graphics. Xtreme Legends was also a commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide.

Conclusion

Dynasty Warriors 5: Xtreme Legends is an excellent expansion to an already great game. The game offers a variety of new content and enhancements that make it a must-play for fans of the Dynasty Warriors series. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the series, Xtreme Legends is sure to provide hours of entertainment.

Additional Features

In addition to the core gameplay modes, Dynasty Warriors 5: Xtreme Legends also includes a number of additional features, such as:

  • Free Mode: This mode allows players to自由に探索the game’s stages and battle against enemy officers.
  • Challenge Mode: This mode challenges players to complete a variety of objectives, such as defeating a certain number of enemies or surviving for a certain amount of time.
  • Gallery: This mode allows players to view character profiles, movies, and other bonus content.

Overall, Dynasty Warriors 5: Xtreme Legends is a comprehensive and feature-rich expansion that offers a wealth of content for fans of the Dynasty Warriors series.

Review Score

8/10

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Samurai Warriors: State of War (2005)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Samurai Warriors: State of War – A Strategy-Action Hybrid That Will Keep You Hooked

Released in 2005 for the PlayStation Portable, Samurai Warriors: State of War is a unique blend of strategy and action that sets it apart from other games in the Samurai Warriors franchise. While it is based on the original Samurai Warriors game, State of War is not a straight conversion and features several new elements that make it a more strategic and challenging experience.

Gameplay

Samurai Warriors: State of War is played in two main stages: the Strategy phase and the Action phase.

Strategy Phase

The Strategy phase takes place on a map divided into colored squares. Players take turns moving their character around the map, with the terrain affecting how they can move and act. For example, forests can provide cover from enemy attacks, while rivers can slow down movement.

During the Strategy phase, players can also issue commands to their troops, such as attacking enemy units or capturing strategic points. The goal of the Strategy phase is to position your forces in a way that will give you an advantage in the Action phase.

Action Phase

The Action phase is where the real-time combat takes place. Players control a single character and must defeat as many enemies as possible within a 60-second time limit. The Action phase is a fast-paced and chaotic affair, and players must use all of their skills to survive.

Characters

Samurai Warriors: State of War features a cast of 25 playable characters, each with their own unique weapons and abilities. Players can choose to play as one of four main armies: the Takeda (Western), Uesugi (Eastern), Nobunaga, or the solo army. Completing the game with these four factions unlocks the final stage in the game.

Game Modes

Samurai Warriors: State of War features three main game modes:

  • Story Mode: The main campaign mode, in which players follow the story of one of the four main armies.
  • Free Mode: A mode in which players can select any character and stage to play.
  • VS Mode: A multiplayer mode in which two players can battle against each other.

Reception

Samurai Warriors: State of War was met with positive reviews from critics, who praised the game’s unique blend of strategy and action. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.

Legacy

Samurai Warriors: State of War is considered to be one of the best games in the Samurai Warriors franchise. The game’s unique gameplay formula has been praised by critics and fans alike, and it has served as a model for future games in the series.

Conclusion

Samurai Warriors: State of War is a must-play for fans of the Samurai Warriors franchise and for anyone who enjoys a good strategy-action game. The game’s unique blend of gameplay elements makes it a truly unique and enjoyable experience.

Additional Details

Guest Characters

In addition to the 25 playable characters from the Samurai Warriors franchise, State of War also features three guest characters from Dynasty Warriors 4: Zhao Yun, Xiahou Dun, and Lu Bu.

New Features

State of War introduces several new features to the Samurai Warriors franchise, including:

  • Terrain Effects: The terrain on the map can now affect how characters move and fight. For example, forests can provide cover from enemy attacks, while rivers can slow down movement.
  • Unit Commands: Players can now issue commands to their troops during the Strategy phase. This allows players to control the flow of battle more effectively.
  • Time Limit: The Action phase now has a 60-second time limit. This adds an extra layer of challenge and excitement to the combat.

Historical Setting

Samurai Warriors: State of War is set during the Sengoku period of Japanese history, a time of great political and military upheaval. The game features many of the famous samurai warriors of the period, such as Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Critical Reception

Samurai Warriors: State of War received positive reviews from critics, who praised the game’s unique blend of strategy and action. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.

Awards

Samurai Warriors: State of War won several awards, including:

  • IGN: Best PSP Game of 2005
  • GameSpot: Best PSP Game of 2005
  • Famitsu: Gold Award

Legacy

Samurai Warriors: State of War is considered to be one of the best games in the Samurai Warriors franchise. The game’s unique gameplay formula has been praised by critics and fans alike, and it has served as a model for future games in the series.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Samurai Warriors 2 (2006)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Samurai Warriors 2: A Hack and Slash Masterpiece

Released in 2006, Samurai Warriors 2 is a hack and slash game developed by Omega Force and published by Koei. It is the sequel to the original Samurai Warriors and introduces several new characters, gameplay features, and enhancements.

Gameplay

Samurai Warriors 2 retains the core gameplay of its predecessor, which involves controlling a single warrior and fighting through hordes of enemies on vast battlefields. However, it introduces several new features that differentiate it from the original game.

One of the most significant changes is the removal of traditional range attacks in favor of two unique special abilities for each character. These abilities can be used to deal devastating damage to enemies, break their defenses, or provide support to allies.

Another new feature is the introduction of the “Rage” mode. When a character’s health is low, they can activate Rage mode, which temporarily boosts their attack power and defense. However, while in Rage mode, the character takes more damage and cannot use their special abilities.

Samurai Warriors 2 also features a variety of game modes, including:

  • Story Mode: Follow the stories of different characters as they fight through historical battles and events.
  • Free Mode: Select any character and battle on any stage without following a specific storyline.
  • Survival Mode: Fight through an endless castle, defeating increasingly difficult waves of enemies.
  • Sugoroku Mode: A board game-style mode where up to four players compete to collect the most gold.

Characters

Samurai Warriors 2 features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique fighting styles and special abilities. Some of the most popular characters include:

  • Nobunaga Oda: A powerful warlord known for his ruthlessness and ambition.
  • Hideyoshi Toyotomi: A skilled general who rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most powerful men in Japan.
  • Ieyasu Tokugawa: A cunning and patient strategist who eventually unified Japan under his rule.
  • Kenshin Uesugi: A legendary swordsman known for his speed and agility.
  • Shingen Takeda: A brilliant tactician and leader of the Takeda clan.

Graphics and Sound

Samurai Warriors 2 features impressive graphics for its time, with detailed character models, vibrant environments, and spectacular special effects. The game’s soundtrack is also highly praised for its epic and stirring compositions.

Reception

Samurai Warriors 2 was a critical and commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. It received praise for its fast-paced and addictive gameplay, diverse cast of characters, and improved graphics and sound.

Legacy

Samurai Warriors 2 is considered one of the best hack and slash games ever made. It has spawned several sequels and spin-offs, including the popular Warriors Orochi series. The game’s influence can also be seen in other hack and slash games, such as Dynasty Warriors and Marvel Ultimate Alliance.

Conclusion

Samurai Warriors 2 is a masterpiece of the hack and slash genre. With its fast-paced gameplay, diverse cast of characters, and stunning graphics and sound, it offers an unforgettable gaming experience. Whether you’re a fan of hack and slash games, historical action games, or just great video games in general, Samurai Warriors 2 is definitely worth checking out.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Aerobiz Supersonic (1993)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Aerobiz Supersonic: A Flight to Remember

Released in 1993, Aerobiz Supersonic is a business simulation game that puts you in the shoes of a CEO of a fledgling airline company. Your goal is to compete against three other airlines for global dominance by setting up new routes, buying businesses, and managing all your resources, including planes, cash flow, and company representatives.

Aerobiz Supersonic is an updated and expanded version of the original Aerobiz game. It features more planes to choose from, more city airports spanned over seven different global regions, and four different time period scenarios complete with historically accurate political relationships and events.

The game starts with you choosing one of four different airline companies, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. You must then set up your initial routes and purchase planes to service them. As you progress through the game, you will need to expand your operations by purchasing new routes, buying businesses, and hiring more staff.

One of the most important aspects of Aerobiz Supersonic is managing your finances. You must carefully balance your income and expenses in order to stay profitable. You can increase your income by setting up new routes, buying businesses, and charging higher fares. You can reduce your expenses by cutting costs, such as reducing the number of flights you operate or laying off staff.

Another important aspect of the game is managing your fleet of planes. You must purchase planes that are appropriate for the routes you operate. You must also maintain your planes and keep them in good repair. If a plane crashes, you will lose money and damage your reputation.

In addition to managing your finances and fleet, you must also manage your company’s representatives. These representatives can be used to negotiate deals with other airlines, purchase businesses, and lobby governments for favorable treatment.

Aerobiz Supersonic is a challenging and rewarding game that will test your skills as a CEO. If you are a fan of business simulation games, then you will definitely want to check out Aerobiz Supersonic.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to help you succeed in Aerobiz Supersonic:

  • Start small and expand gradually. Don’t try to do too much too soon. Focus on building a strong foundation for your airline before expanding your operations.
  • Choose your routes carefully. When setting up new routes, consider the distance between cities, the demand for air travel, and the competition from other airlines.
  • Purchase planes that are appropriate for the routes you operate. Don’t buy planes that are too large or too small for your needs.
  • Maintain your planes and keep them in good repair. A well-maintained fleet will help you avoid costly accidents.
  • Manage your finances carefully. Keep an eye on your income and expenses, and make sure you are making a profit.
  • Use your company representatives wisely. They can be used to negotiate deals, purchase businesses, and lobby governments for favorable treatment.

Historical Scenarios

One of the unique features of Aerobiz Supersonic is its four different historical scenarios. These scenarios allow you to play the game in different time periods, each with its own unique challenges and opportunities.

The four historical scenarios are:

  • 1950s: The post-World War II era was a time of great expansion for the airline industry. New technologies, such as the jet engine, made it possible to travel long distances quickly and efficiently.
  • 1960s: The 1960s was a time of political and social upheaval. The Cold War was at its height, and there were major conflicts in Vietnam and the Middle East.
  • 1970s: The 1970s was a time of economic crisis. The oil crisis led to a sharp increase in fuel prices, which had a major impact on the airline industry.
  • 1980s: The 1980s was a time of economic recovery. The airline industry rebounded from the crisis of the 1970s, and new technologies, such as the wide-body jet, made it possible to travel even further and more efficiently.

Each of the historical scenarios in Aerobiz Supersonic presents its own unique challenges and opportunities. If you are a fan of history, then you will definitely want to check out these scenarios.

Conclusion

Aerobiz Supersonic is a classic business simulation game that has stood the test of time. It is a challenging and rewarding game that will test your skills as a CEO. If you are a fan of business simulation games, then you will definitely want to check out Aerobiz Supersonic.

Review Score

8/10

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Dynasty Warriors 6 (2007)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Dynasty Warriors 6: A Triumphant Return to the Three Kingdoms

Prepare for an unforgettable journey into the tumultuous era of the Three Kingdoms with Dynasty Warriors 6, the latest installment in the exhilarating hack-and-slash franchise. Immerse yourself in a world of epic battles, larger-than-life heroes, and captivating storytelling.

A Legacy of Tactical Action

For over two decades, the Dynasty Warriors series has captivated gamers with its exhilarating blend of tactical action and historical intrigue. Based on the beloved Chinese epic novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms, the series depicts the epic struggle for control of China during the fall of the Han Dynasty.

Dynasty Warriors 6 carries on this legacy with a refined combat system, stunning visuals, and a cast of iconic characters that bring the Three Kingdoms to life.

Unleash Your Inner Warrior

Step into the shoes of legendary warriors such as Liu Bei, Cao Cao, and Sun Quan, each with their own unique fighting styles and abilities. Master their signature moves, execute devastating combos, and unleash powerful Musou attacks to decimate entire armies.

The game’s combat is fluid and intuitive, allowing you to effortlessly chain together attacks and adapt to the ever-changing battlefield conditions. Experience the thrill of single-handedly taking on hordes of enemies, mowing them down with lightning-fast strikes and earth-shattering blows.

Massive Battlefields and Immersive Environments

Dynasty Warriors 6 expands the scale of combat to unprecedented levels. Engage in epic battles across vast and detailed battlefields, where thousands of soldiers clash in a chaotic melee. The immersive environments draw you into the heart of the Three Kingdoms, from sprawling plains to fortified castles and bustling cities.

The game’s stunning visuals capture the grandeur of the era, with vibrant colors, intricate textures, and breathtaking special effects. Witness the beauty of ancient China as you fight your way through picturesque landscapes and iconic landmarks.

A Captivating Story of Honor and Betrayal

Beyond the exhilarating combat, Dynasty Warriors 6 offers a compelling narrative that explores the complex relationships and motivations of its characters. Follow their epic journeys as they navigate a treacherous world of alliances, betrayals, and personal sacrifices.

The game’s story mode spans multiple campaigns, each focusing on a different faction or character. Experience the rise and fall of dynasties, witness the forging of unbreakable bonds, and unravel the secrets that shape the fate of the Three Kingdoms.

Endless Replayability and Customization

With a diverse roster of characters, a multitude of weapons and items, and a variety of game modes, Dynasty Warriors 6 offers endless replayability. Experiment with different character combinations, customize your weapons and abilities, and unlock new challenges to keep the action fresh and exciting.

The game also features a robust online multiplayer mode, allowing you to team up with friends or challenge other players from around the world. Coordinate your attacks, unleash devastating combos, and conquer the battlefield together.

A Masterpiece of Tactical Action

Dynasty Warriors 6 is a triumph of tactical action gaming. Its refined combat system, stunning visuals, immersive environments, and captivating story combine to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer to the Three Kingdoms, this epic adventure will leave you breathless.

Prepare to unleash your inner warrior, conquer vast battlefields, and forge your own legend in Dynasty Warriors 6. The fate of the Three Kingdoms hangs in the balance, and only the mightiest heroes will emerge victorious.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Fatal Inertia (2007)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Fatal Inertia: A Futuristic Racing Gem

Released in 2007 for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, Fatal Inertia is a futuristic hovercar racing game that quickly gained a cult following. Developed by Koei, the game is set in a mid-22nd century Earth where extreme sports have become the primary form of entertainment. Among these sports, Fatal Inertia stands as the most popular, with races taking place far from cities due to the high level of danger.

Gameplay

Fatal Inertia is a fast-paced and intense racing game that requires both skill and strategy to master. Players race hovercars that can reach speeds of up to 500 miles per hour, and must navigate through challenging tracks filled with obstacles and hazards. The game features a variety of different race modes, including single races, tournaments, and time trials.

One of the unique features of Fatal Inertia is its damage system. Hovercars can sustain damage from collisions and other hazards, which can affect their performance. Players must carefully manage their car’s health in order to stay competitive.

Tracks

Fatal Inertia features six different racing environments, each with its own unique set of tracks. These environments include:

  • Neon City: A futuristic cityscape with bright lights and towering skyscrapers.
  • Industrial Zone: A sprawling industrial complex with factories and warehouses.
  • Canyon Run: A winding road through a narrow canyon.
  • Mountain Pass: A treacherous mountain road with steep cliffs and sharp turns.
  • Arctic Zone: A frozen wasteland with icy roads and snow-covered mountains.
  • Jungle: A lush jungle with dense vegetation and hidden paths.

Each environment features a variety of different tracks, with a total of 51 tracks in the game. The tracks are all well-designed and offer a variety of challenges for players.

Hovercars

There are a total of 12 different hovercars in Fatal Inertia, each with its own unique stats and handling characteristics. Players can choose from a variety of different hovercars, including:

  • Speed: Hovercars that prioritize speed over handling.
  • Acceleration: Hovercars that can accelerate quickly out of corners.
  • Handling: Hovercars that are easy to control and maneuver.
  • Durability: Hovercars that can withstand more damage before being destroyed.

Players can also customize their hovercars with a variety of different paint jobs and decals.

Graphics and Sound

Fatal Inertia features stunning graphics for its time. The game’s environments are detailed and immersive, and the hovercars are beautifully rendered. The game’s sound design is also top-notch, with realistic sound effects and a pulse-pounding soundtrack.

Reception

Fatal Inertia received generally positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its fast-paced and intense gameplay, its well-designed tracks, and its stunning graphics. However, the game was also criticized for its lack of online multiplayer and its repetitive gameplay.

Despite its flaws, Fatal Inertia remains a solid racing game that is well worth playing. If you’re a fan of futuristic racing games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Fatal Inertia.

Legacy

Fatal Inertia was a commercial failure, but it has since gained a cult following. The game’s unique gameplay and stunning graphics have made it a favorite among fans of futuristic racing games. In 2018, a spiritual successor to Fatal Inertia, called Hover, was released for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.

Conclusion

Fatal Inertia is a fast-paced and intense futuristic racing game that offers a unique and challenging experience. With its stunning graphics, well-designed tracks, and customizable hovercars, Fatal Inertia is a must-play for any fan of racing games.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Bandit Kings of Ancient China (1989)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Bandit Kings of Ancient China: A Classic Strategy RPG

Bandit Kings of Ancient China is a turn-based strategy role-playing game developed and published by Koei for MS-Dos, the Amiga, and the Apple II in 1989. It was later ported to the Nintendo Entertainment System and a number of other platforms, including a re-release in 1996 on the Sega Saturn and Sony PlayStation.

The game is set in ancient China during the Warring States period (475-221 BC). Players take on the role of a bandit leader who must recruit and train an army, conquer territories, and eventually unify China under their rule.

Bandit Kings of Ancient China was a critical and commercial success, and is considered to be one of the most important strategy RPGs ever made. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, which combined elements of strategy, role-playing, and simulation. The game also featured a large and detailed world, with multiple factions and a variety of different unit types.

Gameplay

Bandit Kings of Ancient China is a turn-based strategy RPG. Players take turns moving their units around the map, attacking enemy units, and capturing territories. Units can be recruited from villages and towns, and can be upgraded by gaining experience in battle.

The game features a variety of different unit types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Infantry units are good at defending against cavalry, while cavalry units are good at attacking infantry. Archers can attack from a distance, while siege units can attack city walls.

Players must carefully manage their resources in order to succeed in Bandit Kings of Ancient China. Food is required to feed units, and gold is required to recruit new units and upgrade existing ones. Players must also be aware of the morale of their units, as units with low morale will be less effective in battle.

Setting

Bandit Kings of Ancient China is set in ancient China during the Warring States period (475-221 BC). This was a time of great political and military upheaval, as the Zhou dynasty collapsed and a number of independent states emerged.

The game features a large and detailed world, with multiple factions and a variety of different terrain types. Players can travel through forests, mountains, rivers, and deserts, and can visit cities, towns, and villages.

Factions

There are a number of different factions in Bandit Kings of Ancient China, each with its own unique goals and objectives. The player can choose to align themselves with one of these factions, or they can remain independent.

The main factions in the game are:

  • The Qin: The Qin are a powerful and ambitious faction that seeks to unify China under their rule. They are led by the ruthless king Ying Zheng, who will stop at nothing to achieve his goals.
  • The Chu: The Chu are a large and diverse faction that is home to a variety of different cultures and peoples. They are led by the wise and benevolent king Huai, who seeks to protect his people from the Qin.
  • The Qi: The Qi are a wealthy and prosperous faction that is known for its trade and commerce. They are led by the cunning and resourceful king Tian, who seeks to expand his kingdom’s influence.
  • The Yan: The Yan are a small but fierce faction that is located in the north of China. They are led by the brave and honorable king Zhao, who seeks to defend his kingdom from the Qin.
  • The Zhao: The Zhao are a powerful and warlike faction that is located in the west of China. They are led by the ambitious king Wuling, who seeks to conquer new territories and expand his kingdom’s power.

Reception

Bandit Kings of Ancient China was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, which combined elements of strategy, role-playing, and simulation. The game also featured a large and detailed world, with multiple factions and a variety of different unit types.

Bandit Kings of Ancient China has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, and it remains a popular game among fans of strategy RPGs. It is considered to be one of the most important strategy RPGs ever made, and it is still played and enjoyed by gamers today.

Legacy

Bandit Kings of Ancient China has had a significant impact on the development of strategy RPGs. It was one of the first games to combine elements of strategy, role-playing, and simulation, and it helped to establish the genre as a major force in the gaming industry.

Bandit Kings of Ancient China has also been credited with inspiring a number of other popular strategy RPGs, including Romance of the Three Kingdoms and Total War. It is a classic game that continues to be enjoyed by gamers today.

Review Score

8/10

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Kessen (2000)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Kessen (2000): A Real-Time Strategy Epic

Released in 2000, Kessen was the first PlayStation 2 game to ship on a DVD, and it remains one of the most impressive strategy games of its era. Set in the Warring States period of Japan, Kessen gives players command of vast armies of up to 100,000 troops, including archers, infantry, riflemen, and cavalry.

The game features over 100 movie segments, fully 3D battlefields, and separate animation routines for every character. It also offers three different camera views, allowing players to get a close-up look at the action or zoom out for a more strategic perspective.

Kessen’s gameplay is simple to learn but difficult to master. Players must use their wits and strategic prowess to outmaneuver their opponents and achieve victory. The game offers a variety of different unit types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players must carefully consider the terrain and the composition of their army when making their decisions.

In addition to its single-player campaign, Kessen also features a multiplayer mode for up to four players. In multiplayer mode, players can compete against each other in a variety of different game modes, including deathmatch, capture the flag, and king of the hill.

Kessen was a critical and commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and epic scope. The game has been cited as an influence on a number of other real-time strategy games, including the Total War series and the Command & Conquer series.

Gameplay

Kessen is a real-time strategy game in which players control vast armies of up to 100,000 troops. The game is set in the Warring States period of Japan, and players can choose to play as one of six different clans.

Each clan has its own unique units and abilities. For example, the Oda clan is known for its powerful cavalry, while the Takeda clan is known for its skilled infantry. Players must carefully consider the strengths and weaknesses of each clan when making their decisions.

The game’s battles take place on fully 3D battlefields. Players can zoom in to get a close-up look at the action or zoom out for a more strategic perspective. The game also features a variety of different camera views, allowing players to see the battlefield from different angles.

Players must use their wits and strategic prowess to outmaneuver their opponents and achieve victory. The game offers a variety of different unit types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players must carefully consider the terrain and the composition of their army when making their decisions.

In addition to its single-player campaign, Kessen also features a multiplayer mode for up to four players. In multiplayer mode, players can compete against each other in a variety of different game modes, including deathmatch, capture the flag, and king of the hill.

Graphics

Kessen was one of the most visually impressive games of its era. The game’s fully 3D battlefields were a sight to behold, and the character models were incredibly detailed. The game also featured a variety of different weather effects, which added to the realism of the battles.

The game’s cutscenes were also very well done. They were directed by renowned Japanese filmmaker Akira Kurosawa, and they featured stunning cinematography and action sequences.

Sound

The sound design in Kessen was also top-notch. The game’s music was composed by renowned Japanese composer Masashi Hamauzu, and it perfectly captured the epic scope of the game. The sound effects were also very realistic, and they helped to create a truly immersive experience.

Conclusion

Kessen is a classic real-time strategy game that still holds up today. The game’s innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and epic scope make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the world of real-time strategy, Kessen is sure to provide you with hours of enjoyment.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Dynasty Warriors 4: Xtreme Legends (2003)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Dynasty Warriors 4: Xtreme Legends: A Legendary Expansion

Released in 2003, Dynasty Warriors 4: Xtreme Legends is an expanded and enhanced version of the popular Dynasty Warriors 4. Developed by Omega Force and published by Koei, Xtreme Legends takes the already impressive foundation of DW4 and adds a wealth of new content and gameplay features that make it a must-have for fans of the series.

Expanded Character Roster and Abilities

One of the most significant additions in Xtreme Legends is the expanded character roster. The original DW4 featured 40 playable characters, while Xtreme Legends boasts a whopping 42 characters, including fan favorites like Lu Bu, Zhao Yun, and Diao Chan. Each character has their own unique fighting style, weapons, and special abilities, ensuring a diverse and engaging gameplay experience.

In addition to the expanded roster, Xtreme Legends also introduces new abilities for each character. These abilities, known as “EX Attacks,” add an extra layer of depth and strategy to combat. EX Attacks can be activated by pressing the R1 button and the corresponding face button, and they unleash powerful attacks or buffs that can turn the tide of battle.

New Gameplay Modes

Xtreme Legends also introduces several new gameplay modes that offer a variety of challenges and experiences. These modes include:

  • Xtreme Mode: This mode generates random skirmishes that become increasingly difficult as you progress. Players must strategically deploy their troops and utilize their characters’ abilities to overcome waves of enemies and complete objectives.
  • Legends Mode: This mode allows players to experience the exploits of all the warriors in the game. Players choose a character and follow their story through a series of battles and cutscenes. Legends Mode provides a deeper insight into the characters’ backgrounds and motivations.
  • Arena Challenge: This mode pits players against increasingly difficult opponents in endurance-style duels. Players must carefully manage their health and abilities to survive and emerge victorious.

Disc Swap Feature

One of the unique features of Xtreme Legends is its disc swap functionality. Players can insert the Xtreme Legends disc into their PlayStation 2 while playing the original Dynasty Warriors 4, which unlocks additional content and features in the base game. This includes new characters, weapons, and stages, making it a great way to extend the longevity of both games.

Graphics and Presentation

Visually, Xtreme Legends is an improvement over Dynasty Warriors 4, with more detailed character models, environments, and special effects. The game runs smoothly and maintains a consistent frame rate, even during the most chaotic battles. The soundtrack is also excellent, with a mix of traditional Chinese instruments and modern rock music that perfectly captures the game’s epic atmosphere.

Conclusion

Dynasty Warriors 4: Xtreme Legends is a worthy expansion to an already excellent game. With its expanded character roster, new abilities, gameplay modes, and disc swap feature, Xtreme Legends offers a wealth of content and replayability for fans of the series. Whether you’re a seasoned Dynasty Warriors veteran or a newcomer to the franchise, Xtreme Legends is a must-play that will provide hours of thrilling and epic action.

Review Score

8.5/10

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