kessen

Kessen is a Japanese historical real-time strategy video game series developed by Koei. The series is known for its large-scale battles, strategic depth, and focus on Japanese Sengoku period history. The gameplay typically involves commanding armies on a battlefield, aiming to outmaneuver and defeat enemy forces. Battles are often fought in real-time, with players issuing orders to their units and managing resources. The narrative of each game usually follows a specific historical conflict or period, with key historical figures and events playing a significant role in the storyline.

The first Kessen game was released in 2000 for the PlayStation 2, focusing on the unification of Japan under Tokugawa Ieyasu. Subsequent titles expanded upon the series' premise, exploring different historical eras and conflicts. Kessen II, released in 2001, shifted its focus to the Romance of the Three Kingdoms period in China. Kessen III, released in 2004, returned to Japanese history, this time detailing the rise of Oda Nobunaga. The series is characterized by its cinematic presentation of battles, often featuring large numbers of units on screen simultaneously. Player decisions in the game can influence the course of battles and the overall narrative. The series has been praised for its historical accuracy and engaging strategic gameplay, though some critics have noted the complexity of its controls and interface.