Although the story in the first game follows one overall framing narrative, the actual events that the you would engage in really depend on the decisions you make. Some decisions, while seeming small, could affect who lived and died at the end of the story. The second game in the series, also released on the Playstation 2, was essentially more of the same with minor tweaks, improvements, and changes. The combat was the recipient of signifant changes in the form of techniques called, “stance-breakers” which added a little more depth to the combat and swordplay system. The branching storylines within a single narrative framework returned.

 

The third game in the series, already released in Japan, is making its way stateside and could really be a standout amongst the blockbusters (or at the very least a fairly welcome distraction). When I think games taking place in feudal periods I immediately think of the Dynasty Warriors series, which have done little to provide new content.

Way of the Samurai 3 is similar to previous iterations in the series with its branching paths and dialogue, but one interesting addition is that players can draw their weapon anytime during cutscenes. This could potentially become a vital influencing factor in conversations and could lead to some really cool moments, especially considering that with each draw of your sword you could potentially be changing the outcome of the game. An ally might become an enemy because of the imposing threat of your blade – or could be scared into giving more than they might have before.

 

One nifty feature that is also making a return is that after completing the game, you will retain the weapons (over 100 to discover in WotS 3), items, parts they obtained, money, and a variety of other game influencing additions to enhance future playthroughs. You’ll need that staggering amount of weapons as weapon durability and damage also makes a return.

The game is boasting a size triple that of WotS 1&2, which can be a staggering amount of playthroughs, especially considering the previous points. Time will also be a factor as in previous editions, where the amount of time it takes to get from one place to another (either traveling instantly with the overall world map, or running on foot) will influence what happens in the story. I can remember an instance in WotS where my inability to make it to a certain character before nightfall resulted in their murder and gave me a path toward vengeance as opposed to the possible happy family life my weary ronin sought.

I would call this game a potential sleeper because of the difference not only in subject matter and presentation, but with the replay value that exists outside of multiplayer. The game seems to be a focused single player experience, something almost unheard of these days, but it dedicated to giving a single player experience worth repeating. Visiting the website there is also a section labeled DLC, with pictures of different version of the armor won by the main character and potentially some new missions or storyline branches.

So outside of our left for wet modern warfare against creed-baring assassins and brutal legends with halos round our heads, maybe give this game a look this October on the Playstation 3 and Xbox 360. The official site is located here.