As far as graphics are concerned, Dynasty Warriors 6 Empires is actually somewhat of an improvement over its predecessors. While the former title had excellent character animations and plenty of action onscreen, it was lacking in the background visuals department. Fortunately, this has been remedied in Empires. Many of the locales in Empires are lifted directly from its predecessor, but they look a little bit sharper and the landscapes aren’t as bland as they were previously.

Sound in this title is a mixed bag. On the one hand, you have the soundtrack, which is composed from songs from the original Dynasty Warriors up to last year’s entry. The music is fully customizable, and you are able to select which song you want to play in the background while you are battling. On the opposite side of the spectrum, there is the voiceover. The Dynasty Warriors series has never been known for its great voice acting, but with Empires I think the series has hit a new low.

Character voices sound bored and insincere, and it doesn’t help that the dialogue is just terrible. After hitting an Invasion event command (as an officer) I was treated to a little gem that involved a peasant saying to me “My people are suffering! Please defeat our warlord!” And what was my eloquent reply? “Well, I guess my reign begins now!” And that was it. I am all about suspending belief for a video game, but do they really want me to believe that invasion decisions are made with two poorly-voiced sentences. Not since Resident Evil 2 has there been such unintentionally humorous dialogue.

Dynasty Warriors 6 Empires is certainly an improvement over its predecessor. The class system and strategic elements give this title more purpose than Dynasty Warriors 6, but at its core, this is the same hack n’ slash gameplay with which the Dynasty Warriors franchise has become synonymous. If you’re good with that, than Dynasty Warriors 6: Empires is certainly worth your time. It would have been nice to see the franchise branch out a little, but if you just can’t wait to get back into the Dynasty Warriors groove, you’ll find plenty to enjoy with Dynasty Warriors 6 Empires.

By Amanda L. Kondolojy
CCC Staff Contributor