Way of the Samurai 3 | Xbox 360

About the Game

Way of the Samurai 3 follows the same principles as its predecessors and is once again designed to offer an authentic settings, a deep sword-fighting system, and cause-and-effect role-playing. This time around the game takes place during the Sengoku Period and puts the players into the sandals of a lone samurai. As the only survivor of an epic battle, he enters the world of Amana which is currently ruled by Shuzen Fujimori who had overthrown the former superior Lord Sakurai. But the Fujimori Clan isn't very liked in the region so Shuzen has to rule the area with an iron fist in order to keep control.

Story & Setting

The overall story arc allows for over 20 possible endings.

Gameplay & Core Systems

players are thrown into this struggle and has to decide if he wants to join Fujimori Clan, Ouka Clan (formed by former members of the Sakurai Clan), protect the villagers in Takatana who just want peace or just get out of Amana for good (which will lead to a complete reset of the game). The game offers players almost complete freedom to roam the eight zones of Amana while looking over the shoulder of his avatar. Which one players gets, depends on his actions and choices throughout the game - including if he always bumps into people, making them angry and attack players. To that end, the length of the game greatly varies depending on what players do. The shortest way e.g. would be to just go and kill both faction leaders which can theoretically be done in less than an hour thanks to the ability to often even act during cut-scenes and dialogues.

Standout Features

• The game is divided into different scenes with the next possible ones marked on the in-game map, making it easier for players to follow the red ribbon.
• NPCs: A major part of the experience is a realistic day and night cycle which has a great affect on the NPCs who live their ordinary lives even without players interfering.
• players can talk to various characters, accept different jobs (only one at a time) and shop for new items.
• Decisions influence the relationships with the different groups changing the way they interact with players and there are dozens of swords, hammers and spears to choose with which he can defend himself.
• With these weapons, players can perform both offensive and defensive moves depending on his fighting style, and even special actions.
• There are several dozen moves available for unlock which will even stay available for each new game.
• More importantly players can decide if he wants to kill an person or fight with a blunt weapon.
• While killing can be bad for the reputation, throwing down an enemy only with a blunt attack will result in another meeting further down the road for sure.

Presentation & Atmosphere

Display support includes HDTV 720p, HDTV 1080i, and HDTV 1080p.