Kessen III (PS2)

Ever wondered what it would be like to take command of a vast Japanese army, slaughter your enemies, proclaim yourself emperor of Japan, without the bother of  getting out of your laz-e boy? Well now is your chance with Koei’s new real time strategy title, Kessen III.

Kessen III follows the story of a young arrogant nobleman named Oda Nobunaga as he sets about unifying a turbulent Japan by dominating the nation through military might. The tale is based loosely on historical fact, but there’s plenty of romance, mysticism, and some ham-fisted comedy to spice up what might otherwise be textbook battles. As with the previous Kessen titles Kessen III is all about the story.  Intricate plots interweave with extensive character development and you really start to feel for Oda (ultimately doomed) struggle for supremacy.

During Nobunagas journey he will come across many powerful generals all with unique abilities.  For example some generals have the ability to ride with mounted heavy spear troops, others have the ability to summon massive whirlwinds to take out your foes. The ability to customise your officers is quite comprehensive, over 450 weapons, armours, helmets and assorted items can solidify their statistics.

Between the various cut scenes, hold War councils to determine which officers will participate in battles, where they will take place and what battle policies will be employed. Over 50 stages of battle and the opportunity for non-linear stage selection makes for some interesting melees.

If you have any of the other titles of the genre made by Koei you are in for a real treat, you can import the characters from other games such as Samurai warriors and use them as your generals, this is a great feature and really increases the longevity of the game.

When in control of your generals you can cast magic spells to decimate your enemies, heal your own troops or actually join the battle close up.  This turns into a Samurai Warriors Esque battle sequence when you attempt to kill the enemy general (and as many of their troops as possible) in a set time limit.  If you are successful the troops are routed and loose morale.

The musical score by composer, Reijiro Koroku adequately sets the majestic scene and the graphics are beautiful to watch. They certainly push the PS2 to really deliver. The Graphics are top notch. Thousands of warriors operate independently on both sides of the battle at full frame rate with little slow down.  The cut scenes are also very impressive rendered in true FMV with no graininess. Whilst the gameplay is fun for a while, it tends to get a little tedious as battles follow the same, position troops here, bash down barricades, and slay the enemy commander.

Even with this flaw, Kessen III is a solid game, which Koei fans will get a lot out of.  If you only occasionally dabble in this type of game however, it will become tiresome after a while.

Graphics: 4/5
Sound: 4/5
Gameplay: 3/5
Longevity: 2/5
Overall: 3/5

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