A satisfying release of Dynasty Warriors, lacking some originality.

User Rating: 8.2 | Shin Sangoku Musou 4 (Treasure Box) PS2
The release of Dynasty Warriors 5 marks another step in the franchise, but there isn't alot of changes. But look at it, if it's not broken, don't fix it!

Gameplay-wise this game is a great hack-n-slash with some elements of RPG, such is customizing, leveling up and so forth. It's mindless killing somewhat but it's a fun way to ease off. There are level that just fills with enemies for you to take them out. Beating hard bosses can be very satisfying too. There's couple of modes: Musou[Story], Free, Challenge and etc. very similar to the predecessors. Each offering something different, but you'll be on Free and Musou mostly and then Challenge afterwards. The main point of this game is co-op that's implemented so nicely and helps this series sell. There are 4 difficulties that of course, as it progresses becomes harder and the better the item drops. Gameplay is a strong point!

Graphics in this game are a step forward in the series. The graphics used to be very blotchy, but that is fixed. On single-player, every detail is seen with precision and clearly. Everything you see from far away, such as castle, will probably be accessible. Two-players, the detailed are dropped a bit for lowering of lag, which is little compared to DW4. It's still a very clear game nonetheless.

Soundtrack is basically composed of chinese or rock music, which matches. The voice acting is averagely done. Some VAs are great and likeable, while others are less enjoyable. Overall sound is pretty well done.

Story in this game is minimal, but it helps define chinese history, but it's none of that boring chinese stuff, some parts are amusing. For the most part, story is told briefly and doesn't develop.

Replayability for this game is amazing because you gain levels and each character has a story and also many, many unlockable characters like 20 something. You start with around 15 characters and develops in to 30-40 characters if not more!

This is a great game for action-lovers and mainly a stress relief! Buy this game, renting is really hard because this game will take a while to finish!