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Review of Ryū ga Gotoku Kenzan! on PlayStation 3

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Mar 2008
Cover image of Ryū ga Gotoku Kenzan! on PS3
Gamefings Score: 8.5
Platform: PS3 PS3 logo
Released: 06 Mar 2008
Genre: Action-adventure, Hack and slash, Beat 'em up
Developer: Sega
Publisher: Sega

Introduction

Welcome to the flamboyant world of *Ryū ga Gotoku Kenzan!* A game that takes you on a wild ride through the misty samurai landscape of Kyoto, where you'll help historical icons settle scores while looking fabulously stylish doing it. Just remember: the past had no internet, so this legendary tale of sarcasm, swords, and intrigue unfolds in a world free of memes. Take a moment to reflect on how lucky you are, and dive into this action-packed adventure.

Gameplay

Let's talk combat, shall we? Picture this: you're a hunk (or a hunkess) wielding swords like they're butter knives. Kenzan! brings back the classic combat mechanics that Made Yakuza Famous (really, they should start a college course). You get to choose from four stylish fighting styles: bare fists, one blade, dual blades, and the ever-impressive "two-handed sword." There's something about wielding a massive weapon that really helps your self-esteem, don't you think? Plus, employ those nifty QTEs (quick time events) to unleash heat actions that'll leave enemies wondering what just hit them. Spoiler alert: it was your epic combo! Exploring Kyoto is also part of the gig, so expect sleuthing around town like Sherlock Holmes on a high-energy caffeine binge.

Graphics

Visually, Kenzan! throws a nostalgic punch. Those graphics, while not cutting-edge by today's standards, manage to ooze character like a good soy sauce. Each frame brings out the richness of 17th-century Kyoto-complete with stunning temples and kabuki-styled characters that flop around with panache. Nostalgia enthusiasts, this game is for you, as it transports you back to a simpler time when graphics were more about the artistry rather than photorealism. Forget about super resolutions; this game thrives on a stylistic touch.

Conclusion

All in all, *Ryū ga Gotoku Kenzan!* offers an enthralling adventure packed with historical intrigue, intense swordplay, and an engaging narrative that'll keep you on your toes (and your thumbs)! Don't let the fact that it's a *Yakuza* spin-off fool you; this game stands tall in its own right. Sure, its chances of coming to the West again resemble that of finding a needle in a haystack, but that's okay because you can always dive into its mysterious charm through fan sites. So, dust off your PS3, put on a headband, and prepare for the drama! Who knew history could be this much fun? Now go forth like Musashi-except without the whole 'maybe I'll die today' vibe-and enjoy the chaos!

See Latest Prices for Ryū ga Gotoku Kenzan! on PS3 on Amazon

See Prices for Ryū ga Gotoku Kenzan! on PS3 on Ebay

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