Kessen II Details

Kessen II

The original and cryptically named Kessen for PlayStation 2 was the first DVD-based game to be released in the consoles UK launch period of late 2000. But even with 5 GB of storage, developers Koei couldnt cram in all of its hardcore strategy gaming experience. This is a common occurrence in the industry, and the usual course of action to rectify the problem is to develop a sequel. And now we have Kessen 2.

In an Eastern land where feuds are common and wars over the ownership of territory and empires are plentiful, you are the sole lord who strides for peace in this volatile region. But after being attacked, you are forced to fight for survival in what will be your greatest challenge yet.

Kessen 2 promises to include all of the original playing aspects that made its hardcore predecessor such an involving title. But more importantly, the game will boast the graphical and technical enhancements afforded by the additional development time.

From a technical standpoint, a new rendering system allows for some 500 soldiers on screen at any one time. The real-time environments are noticeably larger, more detailed, and run more smoothly. A more delicately designed game engine means Koei has squeezed in triple the number of battles. Some of the more challenging stages include storming the castle walls and battling on moving ships, making the whole experience a little more varied and stimulating.

Needless to say, Kessen 2 is a fine title, but one designed maybe for a hardcore strategy audience. Theres lots to be getting on with, and fans of the series will no doubt be running the game clock into triple figures.

Certificate
Developers	KOEI
Publisher	THQ
Genres	Strategy
Released	Production year: 2002 PS2: 22 Mar 2002
Number of players	1