Jan 2017
Ah, Dynasty Warriors: Godseekers, the game that's like if chess had a mid-life crisis and decided to start mixing it up with kung fu! If you're not familiar, this installment takes the familiar chaotic battlefield vibes of Dynasty Warriors and dials it down to a turn-based tactical experience. So, put on your serious thinking cap and get ready to strategize your way through some of China's most iconic battles, complete with new friends with questionable hairstyles and backstories so convoluted, they rival soap operas!
This game is while tactical, which means you're engaging your brain almost as much as your thumbs. Instead of just hacking your way through hordes of enemies like a heavyweight champ with an endless supply of energy drinks, you'll control a team of up to five characters who shuffle across a grid, much like your old Tetris dreams! Each character comes with six different stats that define everything from their attack power to how likely they are to miss a shot and make you question your decision-making skills. There are five character types with distinct play styles, such as Attack, Defense, Technique, Speed, and Spirit. Each character gets a chance to flex their respective powers, with a metaphorical fist pump that says, 'I can take out a dozen enemies with one powerful move!'. And let's be honest, who doesn't want that sort of power? The real kicker, though? The Musou gauge! Each attack fills this bad boy up, allowing you to unleash fancy moves that would make a Dragon Ball Z character proud. You can even collaborate for Synchro Attacks-imagine your characters form a superhero-style combo, where everyone suddenly knows what the other is thinking and coordinates an attack. Trust me; it's as cool as it sounds.
The visuals are what you'd expect from a Dynasty Warriors title, system pushing graphics, complete with individuals whose facial expressions are as subtle as a sledgehammer. Each character is rendered with that signature anime flair, ensuring you can tell who's who at a glance, no matter how many explosions are going off behind them. The real standout here is the art-style; however, some may find the grid-based maps a tad claustrophobic, which is strange considering they're based on expansive historical battlefields. Don't get tangled in the grid, or you might miss that super awesome area-effect move you've been waiting for!
In essence, Dynasty Warriors: Godseekers is like that nerdy cousin you had growing up - you needed them in your life but never opted to hang out with them. It's a unique twist on the franchise that gives turn-based strategy a shot in the arm with all the trademark characters you love. While it may take a few rounds of game time before you understand where your units are supposed to be (hint: not piled up in one corner), the excitement of experiencing battles in a new light is rewarding. So pop your brain into gear, grab a bowl of popcorn, and strategize your way to victory-or at least enjoy the spectacle of your favorite ancient Chinese heroes slinging spells and swiping enemies with their biceps. If turn-based tactical RPGs tickle your fancy, or you just want to hang out with Zhao Yun and his pals, give this one a whirl. Just don't blame me if you get sucked into a grid-based warfare obsession!
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