Game Informer Review
Koei continues to find new ways to milk the Dynasty Warriors engine for all it's worth. After Dynasty Warriors 4: Extreme Legends tried the "1.5" sequel tactic, this time around the company has changed the title altogether and switched the setting from ancient China to16th century Japan.
There have been some improvements in the gameplay package. The combo system accommodates a larger variety of tactics, and the different characters have wildly varying styles of combat. In addition, the Musou special moves are devastating and shown in even greater graphical splendor. Still, I doubt even the most ardent Dynasty Warriors fans will be able to claim this is any sort of dramatic reinvention of the well-used combat scheme.
While the missions and levels are no great feat of game design, there are some interesting twists that will keep the experience fresh enough for many. There is now some degree of castle randomizing, which should help add to the replay factor for hardcore players. Yes, many of the missions are still pretty simplistic, but every once in a while you'll perform a unique task or be surprised by the traps in interior environments.
In the end, Samurai Warriors is not a bad game. In fact, for some people, it might be just what they need – solid hack n' slash action that does a great job of making you feel that you're part of a much larger conflict. However, for me, it's obvious that Koei has become complacent. Samurai Warriors is merely mediocre in terms of graphics (including the pitiful draw-distance in multiplayer), and simple problems like the inept camera have yet to be fixed. Its strong gameplay manages to squeak out a passing grade, but I really don't feel this franchise is living up to its potential.
Concept:
The same old hack n' slashin' in a new setting
Graphics:
I think it's time for Koei to radically upgrade or scrap this engine
Sound:
A nice score with Dolby Pro Logic II support
Playability:
Does a good job of providing some depth to the basic combat, but the camera still blows
Entertainment:
Don't be fooled by the new title, this is Dynasty Warriors all over again
Replay:
Moderately High
Rated: 7.5 out of 10
Editor: Matt Helgeson
Issue: May 2004
2nd Opinion:
The bottom line is that the biggest difference between Samurai Warriors and Dynasty Warriors is the name. It's the same old hack n' slash action that Dynasty Warriors has offered for years with a slightly different setting. Every battle in the game is basically the same as those that came before it, the combat isn't too deep, and the environments are bland. But, on the other hand, upgrading my abilities and getting new skills was engaging enough to keep me playing for a while. If you're one of those Warriors fans that picks up every iteration of the series, you won't be disappointed. If you're just a fan of action games, you may also get a kick out of it – for a while. This title truly epitomizes the phrase "dumb but fun."
Rated: 7.5 out of 10
Editor: Jeremy Zoss
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