WARRIORS OROCHI 4

Fight at the museum

Combining two flavours of Warriors (Dynasty and Samurai), this crossover series combines figures from Chinese and Japanese military history… and throws them into a world of monsters, gods, and magic. If you missed the first three games, don’t worry – the returning characters have lost their memories. Hurrah!

Like 90% of Omega Force’s output, this is a game that pits you against hilarious odds in each stage. Unless you’re going for a speedrun, your kill count at the end of each battle will sit well within quadruple figures. Yes, there is (appropriately) an army of these games out there, but even though it doesn’t have the anime hook of Berserk And The Band Of The Hawk this is a pretty good starting point.

It’s incredibly easy to get started: just attack anyone and anything with a red health bar. There are two basic attack buttons, two different sorts of special attack, and three types of magic attack. 1 There are four gauges you’ll need to keep an eye on, but the UI is pleasingly clear and simple. There’s also a map in the corner of the screen, which you’ll occasionally need to quickly navigate your way to an ally who needs your help. Failing a mission just because you didn’t squint at the map hard and fast enough is annoying, but rare.

The fundamental gameplay couldn’t be simpler, and the dialogue is terrible… but it’s good. There’s a staggering 170 characters to unlock, 2 and you’ll soon find favourites. With an enormous amount of content, online and offline co-op ( if you can find other players; I couldn’t), and some cool-looking moves, it’s a shallow but entrancing adventure. Luke Kemp

FOOTNOTES1 There’s an upgrade system it’s important (and easy) to get to grips with. 2 There are only so many different weapon and ability types to go around, but they’re well distributed.