Kessen III is the first sequel to the series in almost four years and will be notable for several sweeping changes to the widely respected franchise. The series' Crowd Engine that was used in the original Kessen has been completely rebuilt to deliver the most exciting battle scenes and action-oriented gameplay in the series- all in full 3D. Unlike any of the previous Kessen games in the series, players will have direct real-time control of troop movements, offensives, and defensive maneuvers. Moreover, allied units can join the player-controlled unit to create combination attacks
One of the most appealing elements of the Kessen series has always been its use of the “Group Control Engine”. Kessen III will utilise the power of the PlayStation 2 to the maximum to further evolve the “Group Control Engine” that will power Kessen III. No longer will the player be limited to watching a unit attack while under the control of the group engine – now in Kessen III, the player has direct control of any unit’s action. The player now chooses to control the officer or the entire unit!
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"The Kessen series' rise to prominence coincided with the launch of the PlayStation 2, and with its sequel the games quickly established themselves into a franchise that would have a place of distinction in video game history. A long-awaited sequel, Kessen III signals the rebirth of the series and will feature evolutionary changes in gameplay," said Amos Ip, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at KOEI Corporation. "In many respects, Kessen III represents a culmination of the company's core philosophies and expertise in crafting the finest battlefield simulation games."
Kessen III now features non-linear stage selection, an officer and troop development system, and a process that allows players to equip officers with over 450 weapons, helmets, and samurai armor. The game's deep and compelling narrative will unfold throughout 120 combined minutes of movie sequences, accompanied by a stirring musical score from legendary composer Reijiro Koroku.
The new sequel also marks the franchise's return to Japanese history and aesthetics. It is the middle of the turbulent Sengoku or "warring states" period. Endless chaos and plunder have consumed the islands of Japan. A young teenager, known for his extravagant appearance and unconventional attitude emerges from Central Japan- he is Nobunaga Oda. While elders admonished him, his contemporaries admired him. Blessed with an indomitable vision and fearless constitution, the soon-to-be legendary Nobunaga will stand against legions of warriors in order to resurrect a land filled with chaos and sorrow.
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Features:
- Twice as many battles of any previous Kessen title
- Engrossing and compelling story line with every chapter and battle having unique themes
- A multitude of levelling up of your troops and a plethora of items to buy and trade with approximately 110 suits of armour and 80 helmets as two examples showing the depth of detail.
- Three difficulty settings increases replay value.
- Over 120 minutes of movie sequences adding to the drama and helping to understand the storyline of the game.
Euro : summer 2005 / U.S. : Q1 2005