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Story
Kessen III marks the grand finale in the acclaimed Kessen series, developed by Koei for the PlayStation 2. Unlike its predecessors, which focused on different periods of Japanese and Chinese history, Kessen III zeroes in on the Sengoku period, offering a dramatized retelling of the life of Oda Nobunaga, one of Japan’s most famous and controversial warlords.
The game begins with a young Nobunaga, whose vision of unifying Japan serves as the central narrative thrust. The story portrays his rise from a feudal lord to becoming one of the most powerful figures in the country. The narrative unfolds through cinematic cutscenes that bring to life key historical events, such as the Battle of Okehazama and the burning of Mount Hiei, while adding a layer of personal drama and intrigue.
Players witness Nobunaga’s transformation from an idealistic leader striving for peace to a fierce warrior determined to crush his enemies. The game does a commendable job balancing historical facts with fictional elements, providing an engaging narrative that is both educational and entertaining. Supporting characters, including iconic generals like Hideyoshi Toyotomi and Ieyasu Tokugawa, are given depth and personality, making the player invested in their fates.
Gameplay
Kessen III builds upon the real-time strategy mechanics established in the series, refining and enhancing them to create a more dynamic and challenging experience. Players assume the role of Nobunaga, commanding vast armies across beautifully rendered battlefields. The gameplay is a blend of strategy and action, requiring players to make quick decisions and adapt to the ever-changing battlefield conditions.
Battle Mechanics
The game features real-time tactical battles where players can issue commands to individual units or entire divisions. Each unit type, from infantry to cavalry and archers, has its strengths and weaknesses, requiring players to strategically position them for maximum effectiveness. The inclusion of special abilities and morale mechanics adds depth, as players must manage their troops’ stamina and resolve to maintain momentum in battle.
Role-Playing Elements
One of Kessen III’s standout features is its RPG elements. As players progress, they can upgrade Nobunaga and his generals, enhancing their skills and unlocking powerful abilities. This progression system adds a layer of personalization, allowing players to tailor their army to their preferred playstyle. The game also includes a variety of side missions and objectives, encouraging exploration and rewarding strategic experimentation.
Campaign Structure
Kessen III offers a narrative-driven campaign that spans multiple chapters, each consisting of several missions. The campaign is linear but includes branching paths and alternative scenarios based on player choices. This structure provides replayability, as players can experience different outcomes and challenges depending on their decisions.
Graphics and Sound
Kessen III is a visual treat, boasting detailed character models and lush environments that capture the essence of feudal Japan. The game’s graphical fidelity was impressive for its time, with smooth animations and dynamic weather effects that add to the immersion. The attention to detail in armor and weapon design is notable, reflecting the historical period’s aesthetics.
The sound design complements the visuals with a sweeping orchestral score that underscores the epic nature of Nobunaga’s journey. The music is both emotive and grand, enhancing dramatic moments and providing a fitting backdrop to the intense battles. Voice acting, available in both English and Japanese, is well-executed, bringing the characters to life with authenticity and emotional depth.
Legacy and Reception
Kessen III was well-received by fans and critics alike, praised for its engaging story, refined gameplay mechanics, and impressive presentation. The game marked a significant evolution in the series, moving away from the slower-paced tactics of its predecessors to a more action-oriented approach. This shift appealed to a broader audience, attracting both strategy enthusiasts and action game fans.
Despite its success, Kessen III remains the last installment in the series, leaving a lasting impact on the real-time strategy genre. It is often remembered for its ambitious storytelling and innovative blend of strategy and RPG elements. The game’s portrayal of historical events and figures also sparked interest in Japanese history among players, contributing to its enduring legacy.
While the Kessen series has not continued beyond this installment, its influence can be seen in other Koei titles, such as the Samurai Warriors and Nobunaga’s Ambition series, which continue to explore the rich tapestry of Japan’s past.
Conclusion
Kessen III stands as a fitting conclusion to a beloved strategy series, offering an engaging and cinematic experience that captures the spirit of its historical setting. Its combination of strategic depth, compelling narrative, and impressive presentation has left a lasting mark on the genre, making it a must-play for fans of historical strategy games. Though the series has not seen a continuation, Kessen III’s legacy endures as a testament to Koei’s storytelling prowess and innovative game design.
