Total War Battles: SHOGUN takes players back to the era of ancient Japan with its historical backdrop and strategic gameplay. As a seasoned retro gaming enthusiast, I was intrigued by the prospect of immersing myself in a world reminiscent of classic games. However, upon delving into the game, it became apparent that Total War Battles: SHOGUN falls short of its nostalgic potential.
One of the standout features of Total War Battles: SHOGUN is its real-time battle system. The hex-based battle map allows for swift and uncomplicated unit movements, which in turn, allow for the implementation of intricate strategies. This aspect of the gameplay felt both familiar and fresh, evoking memories of bygone gaming eras while still offering something new.
Total War Battles: SHOGUN's integration with Steam provides additional appeal to PC gamers. The inclusion of Steam-specific features such as Achievements and leaderboard rankings adds an element of competition and achievement hunting, further enhancing the overall experience for those who enjoy showcasing their gaming prowess.
However, despite these promising elements, Total War Battles: SHOGUN fails to live up to its potential in several areas. The graphics, while serviceable, lack the visual flair that can transport players back to the retro gaming days. A more nostalgic art style, reminiscent of classic games, would have been a welcome addition and would have contributed to the overall nostalgic feel of the game.
Furthermore, the overall gameplay experience felt lackluster and lacked the depth that one would expect from a Total War title. The battles, while engaging at first, quickly became repetitive and failed to capture the strategic complexity that the franchise is known for. This lack of depth diminished the overall enjoyment of the game and left a feeling of unfulfilled potential.
In terms of retro gaming nostalgia, Total War Battles: SHOGUN falls short of the mark. While it successfully incorporates some familiar elements and pays homage to its predecessors, it fails to grasp the essence of classic gaming that many retro enthusiasts seek. Ultimately, the game's execution left a lot to be desired and may disappoint those who had high hopes for a truly nostalgic experience.
With a video game rating of 3/10, Total War Battles: SHOGUN for PC falls below expectations. While it offers some enjoyable moments and the potential for strategic engagement, it ultimately fails to deliver on the promise of a truly nostalgic gaming experience. Sega, as both the publisher and developer, missed an opportunity to tap into the captivating essence of retro gaming and create a title that would resonate with seasoned enthusiasts.
