One of a kind
Kessen is a strategy game like no other, you set your strategy, position your various armies and then take full control of the battle. You control the armies individually but you can use your leader to command a full assault, retreat or a halt. You have various units ranging from Ninjas to Cavalry. The different units have their strong and weak points for example the Ninja is quick and packs quite a punch but has low numbers and a low defence. Your different armies have specials like cavalry charges and the devastating Cannonade. You may zoom in on the battle and watch your men slash and stab their way through the enemy units. The controls for the game are quite easy to use as they fit the gameplay perfectly which is surprising as I find the controls on mors console strategy games a nightmare. Most of your unit control is done using the easy to use battle map.
Although this game was released 6 years ago, it set a standard for PS2 games in terms of graphics. The units in this game look great, as realistic as they could possibly be. The landscapes aren't great but this was improved on in the next game. The cut scenes are some of the best I have seen on the PS2 and make for an enjoyable viewing every time. The sounds in this game are brilliant with great voice overs and the realistic sounds of the battlefield such as steel clashing, rifles firing and the movement of horses.
Life can be this game's weak point but also a strong point depending on how you look at it. Although both campaigns are short and only take a few hours to complete this game has great replay value. I myslef am playing through for the fourth time.
I will leave you with a big tip for the game, play it defensive its not good to jump into things.
This is the first part in a review of the whole series.