Dynasty Warriors 5: Empires

Dynasty Warriors 5: Empires is a much needed improvement to the Dynasty Warriors series. Instead of picking a hero and following their every battle (Which often results in having to do the same battle 3 times) you are the story line. You decide where the battles take place. This time, you're the boss. You get to rule your small province of China and you grow by forming alliances and conquering others until you eventually rule China. Also, Instead of killing the enemy's general you have choice of either hiring him or releasing him (or her). This may sound to easy but not all generals will join you. Some will get smart and cause an uprising at one of your territories before attacking you. Some foes will offer a long term alliance because they know they will be crushed if they don't. But still, every game has it's own problems. First of all, remember when you where almost dead and then found a box and you were saved by a rice cake? Well, I guess the chef didn't like putting them in boxes any more because a box won't save you now. No, you'll have to earn your health by fighting a general to steal his. But still, on the easier difficulties it is hard to get hurt. But this game is just lacking something. Overall though, it is one of my personal favorites.

Sound:
Ha! Ugh! *Grunt*-alicous

Immersion:
You can't rely on your allies to your job fighting. You must always be protecting bases and generals.

Graphics:
A definate improvement, but could have done more.

Difficulty:
Easy

The Grade:
+Empire mode
+Edit mode
=Constant involvement
-stationing is hard to learn
-no cool new weapons for characters
Final Score:9.0 Reviewer's Choice