Total War: Three Kingdoms is a turn-based strategy game set in China during the Three Kingdoms period. The game offers two modes of play, Campaign and Battle, with a deep and engaging gameplay system that includes a character system, diplomacy, and battle tactics. The graphics and sound design are impressive, with attention to historical accuracy evident throughout the game. The game’s commitment to historical accuracy includes accurate depictions of different factions, leaders, and their relationships, as well as technology and military tactics of the time period. The game is a must-play for fans of turn-based strategy games or Chinese history.
Reviewing Total War: Three Kingdoms – A Deep Dive into Chinese History
Introduction
Total War: Three Kingdoms is a turn-based strategy game developed by Creative Assembly and published by Sega. The game was released on May 23, 2019, for Microsoft Windows. The game is set in China during the Three Kingdoms period (220-280 AD) and follows the historical events of this period. The player takes on the role of a faction leader and must lead their chosen faction to victory by diplomacy, warfare, and political maneuvering.
Gameplay
The gameplay of Total War: Three Kingdoms is deep and engaging. The game contains two modes of play, Campaign and Battle. The Campaign mode is turn-based and sees the player managing their faction’s economy, diplomacy, military, and technology. The Battle mode is real-time and sees the player commanding their armies in battles.
One of the key features of the game is the character system. Each character has unique traits, skills, and relationships with other characters in the game. They can also be recruited or befriended through diplomatic means. This character system lends depth to the gameplay and creates a sense of attachment to the characters.
The diplomacy system is also well-designed, with the ability to form alliances, trade, and negotiate with other factions. However, the AI can be overly aggressive at times, leading to frustrating gameplay.
The battle system is where the game shines. The battles are visually stunning and feel realistic. Armies clash in epic battles, and the player must use tactics and strategy to defeat their opponents. The AI in battle is challenging, and the battles are intense and engaging.
Graphics and Sound
The graphics of Total War: Three Kingdoms are impressive, especially in battles. The game features beautiful landscapes, detailed units, and stunning animations. The attention to detail is evident, and the game feels authentic to the time period.
The sound design in the game is also excellent. The music sets the tone for the game, and the sound effects are realistic. The voice acting is in Chinese, adding to the authenticity of the game.
Historical Accuracy
One of the standout features of Total War: Three Kingdoms is its commitment to historical accuracy. The game is set in China during the Three Kingdoms period and follows the historical events of the time. The game is even narrated by Luo Guanzhong, the author of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, which is the historical novel that inspired the game.
The game features accurate depictions of the different factions and their leaders, as well as their historical relationships. The game also accurately portrays the technology and military tactics of the time period.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Total War: Three Kingdoms is an excellent game that offers deep and engaging gameplay, stunning graphics, and historical accuracy. The character system and the battle system are standouts, and the attention to detail is evident throughout the game. The only downside is the sometimes overly aggressive AI in diplomacy.
If you are a fan of turn-based strategy games or Chinese history, then Total War: Three Kingdoms is a must-play game. The game offers a unique and immersive experience of the Three Kingdoms period and is a deep dive into Chinese history that is both entertaining and educational.