Sengoku Basara: Samurai Heroes
| Sengoku Basara: Samurai Heroes | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Developer(s) | Capcom |
| Publisher(s) | Capcom |
| Director(s) | Makoto Yamamoto |
| Producer(s) | Hiroyuki Kobayashi |
| Designer(s) | Mitsuru Endo |
| Artist(s) |
Makoto Tsuchihayashi (character) Narumi Tauchi (background) Junichiro Ogawa (visual effects) |
| Writer(s) | Shino Okamura |
| Composer(s) |
Kow Otani Masahiro Aoki Rei Kondoh Masayoshi Ishi Yasutaka Hatade Sara Sakurai |
| Series | Sengoku Basara |
| Engine | MT Framework |
| Platform(s) | PlayStation 3, Wii |
| Release date(s) | |
| Genre(s) | Fighting, Hack and slash, Action-adventure game |
| Mode(s) | Single-player, Two-player |
Sengoku Basara: Samurai Heroes, known in Japan as Sengoku Basara 3 (Japanese: 戦国BASARA3 Hepburn: Sengoku Basara Surī), is a 2010 action-adventure video game developed and published by Capcom for the PlayStation 3 and Wii and is the sequel to Sengoku Basara 2 released on July 29, 2010 in Japan. Sengoku Basara 3: Party, known in Japan as Sengoku Basara 3: UTAGE (戦国BASARA3宴 Sengoku Basara Surī: Utage) was released on November 10, 2011, featuring an increased roster of formerly NPC and a returning character from Sengoku Basara 2: Heroes, Matsunaga Hisahide.
Gameplay
As a single-character "hack-n-slash" combat emphasizing large battlefields and an element of strategy. The strength of the controlled character allows for superhuman feats of destruction against multiple foes, and the battles revolve around defeating large amounts of enemies. Additionally, missions are completed (in general) by defeating "gate captains" and eventually a boss and/or minibosses. Basara 3 mixes up the gameplay by adding in other objectives, as well, such as guarding a castle or destroying an enemy's food reserves. The uniqueness of each character allows for different fighting styles, such as those which focus on hitting a large number of enemies versus those which focus on a few (excellent for killing boss characters). Combos are easily performed, and characters have the ability to gain levels by completing stages, eventually unlocking skills and/or adding additional power to their existing ones. Weapon acquisition and customization is also an integral element of the game.
Playable characters
New
The Western Army's supreme commander and previously Toyotomi Hideyoshi's vassal, whom he viewed as a role-model and served with absolute loyalty. While caring less for other concerns, personal or political, he is the arch-enemy of Ieyasu who defeats Hideyoshi.
One of Mitsunari's friend who helps to keep their Western Army in line and fury contained. Driven mad by his mind, Yoshitsugu seeks to bring misery and bad fortune that equals his own to everyone in the world, but is nonetheless concerned for Mitsunari's well-being. He uses several orbs as a weapon and rides a levitating palanquin. Holds a certain measure of respect for Motonari.
Third leader of the Saica Faction, a mercenary force. Dislikes money, and only takes on jobs that will improve the Faction's status and standing in Japan. Each member of her faction is united by a deep bond. While most historical representations show Magoichi as a man, the name 'Magoichi' was used for the leader of the Saica and could have referred to a woman as well. She uses a variety of anachronistic firearms as her weapons, including pistols, shotguns, assault rifles, and a rocket launcher. Her real name, as revealed in conversations with Motochika, is Sayaka. She holds a grudge against the Toyotomi clan for their previous service to Hideyoshi which, presumably, ended badly.
Former member of Hideyoshi's Forces. Mitsunari drove him to the south, after his plans to take over Japan by himself were discovered. He is attempting to use the turmoil spreading across Japan to take over, but is constantly outwitted by Motonari and Yoshitsugu. He appears as a prisoner whose hands have been locked and cuffed with a ball and chain, which he also uses as his weapon. In his alternate story path, he fails to get a falcon which has stolen the key needed to free his bound arms.
A young and naive Oracle and an archer priestess who wishes to protect her homeland. Because of her secluded life, she has very little knowledge of the outside world and of various things and concepts outside of her shrine, such as mistaking a tiger for a bear, and not knowing what "sadness" means. She became infatuated with the ninja Fūma Kotaro who saved her life during a naval battle. She is Hojo Ujimasa's server.
Returning characters
Now an adult and the Eastern Army supreme commander. He was taken in as an apprentice by Toyotomi Hideyoshi after being defeated at Komaki and Nagakute, but rebelled against and killed Hideyoshi because he disagree with his plan to take Japan by force. Ieyasu now fights to unify Japan through peace and bonds along with his comrade Tadakatsu who uses a spear. Ieyasu fights with his fists, using knuckle attachments to complement his new fighting style. He is Masamune's friend and ally.
Charismatic young leader of Oshu and Ieyasu's guard who seeks to unify Japan under his rule with help from his right-hand man, Kojuro. Was once thoroughly defeated in battle by Mitsunari, which led to the weakening of Oshu's power. He fights against Ishida Mitsunari in order to win his lost honor back.
Leader of Shingen's Forces due to Takeda Shingen's illness. He does all that he can in order to bring Shingen's dreams to fruition, but shows crippling inexperience. He forms an alliance with Mitsunari Ishida and has a rivalry with Ieyasu, who was also a student of Shingen, that will come to a conclusion soon.
Ieyasu's ally who now uses cannons on his shoulders along with his drill spear.
A pirate of Shikoku. After found his force was attacked by the Tokugawa, he formed an alliance with Ishida Mitsunari as a part of Western Army.
One of Mitsunari's Allies. After Mōri's home was attacked, he looks to restore his territory, joining the alliance with Mitsunari's Western army, alongside his rival Chōsokabe.
Carefree yet thoughtful friend of Uesugi Kenshin and nephew of Maeda Toshiie and Matsu. Trying to spend his days as quietly as possible while serving Kenshin after the death of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. He has a grudge against Ieyasu for killing Hideyoshi, and also falls in love with Saika Magoichi (in her discontent).
A cunning, sophisticated man who was introduced in Sengoku Basara 2: Heroes and returns in Sengoku Basara 3: UTAGE. His motives unknown, he travels the land collecting treasured things from those he defeats. In his story, he first humiliates Date Masamune and Sanada Yukimura in Azure Crimson Horse Fury, then defeats Ieyasu Tokugawa and Ishida Mitsunari in the second stage, but Mitsunari is footed, and Ieyasu has been burnt. In his final stage he joins the alliance with Oda Nobunaga.
He planned to retire soon in order to let the younger generation take over, however, upon hearing about the escalating conflict with Oda Nobunaga, he takes up his sword again and joins the fight to try to pave the way for the heartsick Mitsunari.
Nobunaga's younger sister and the lone survivor of the Incident at Honnō-ji. She returned to him after he slayed her husband. This terrible act has eroded her mind, and she is now wandering the land with blackest of hearts. She uses her dark aura hands instead of her naginata in this game.
Ujimasa's legendary ninja ally known throughout the country. Nothing else is known about him as has never spoken to another. He helps complete Ujimasa's plan to bring the Hojo name back to its former glory. He is the object of affection for Tsuruhime.
The infamous Demon King returns from Hell to conquer Japan once again, but Oichi sacrifices herself to drive him back to his resting place. The player can fight Oda with on one house path.
Playable characters in Sengoku Basara 3: Utage
New characters
Glutton commander of his Forces with his inability to make decisions. Usually relies on others to make decisions for him, and eats his stress away. Loyal to Motonari and Mitsunari, who treat him like a pawn. His weapon is a pot, which he spins on to attack. He also uses food ingredients to attack.
Unknown man who serves Kobayakawa as a monk. Respectful and polite, he is appreciated by many for his encouraging words and strong decision-making skills. His identity and true intentions are completely unknown, though he bears an uncanny resemblance to Akechi Mitsuhide. He wields two scythes which have life-leeching abilities. In the latest update of the game, it was revealed that Tenkai is Akechi Mitsuhide in disguise, surviving Hideyoshi's attack.
A very loyal general that serves Sorin. Known as one of the country's three greatest warriors. Puts great importance into respecting and believing in people. While being used by Sorin, he swore an oath to him, and will not break an oath as a warrior. He uses the Lightning Edge, two chainsaws with lightning-based attacks.
The young head of the Otomo clan, and loyal member of the suspicious religion known as Xavism. Is willing to do anything to create a nation of Xavism in Kyushu, and this has brought ruin to many surrounding areas. He uses a vehicle that resembles the head of Pontiff Xavi, which can shoot missiles and creates a musical field.
Head of his clan who is to take control of north-eastern Japan. Has already met Masamune and Kenshin in battle, and is trying to use that experience to take the weakened Oushu from Masamune, his nephew. He wields a long, light rapier and specializes in counterattacks.
Returning characters
Masamune's most trusted, respected soldier and brilliant warrior whose skills are matched by a rare few. Believes it is his fault for the loss to Ishida Mitsunari, and is now dedicated to bring him down and returning pride to Oshu.
Ninja in Shingen's Forces. Advising and watching over Yukimura, who is at a loss over Shingen's illness. Knows when to leave Yukimura be and let him do his own thing, but has dedicated himself to helping the young man grow.
Genius strategist referred to as the "God of War". Retreated from the warrior life after Shingen fell ill and has no intention of joining the current struggle for power. Ieyasu Tokugawa sees him as the successor to Shingen.
Kenshin's female ninja who was ordered to assassinate Kenshin, but fell in love with him and dedicated her life to him. Very skilled, however she gets emotional in the heat of battle. Is frustrated that Kenshin and Keiji are so close.
Former leader of the Takeda clan. Due to being ill, Yukimura takes over his position of clan leader. In the latest update of the game, he has made a full recovery.
Head of the Maeda clan. Loved by all his soldiers for being a caring leader. Has been neutral until now, but with pressure from the surrounding areas growing stronger, he will have to make a decision soon. Always keeps tabs on his nephew, Keiji.
Toshiie's wife. Taken prisoner by the Eastern Army in order to force Toshiie to join their side. No matter what happens, she will always stand by her husband's side. She supports her nephew, Keiji, 100% in his soul-searching journey.
Head of the Hojo Clan whose ultimate goal is to bring honor back to the clan. Trying to join the Eastern Army so that he can experience the heat of battle. Was shown mercy by Kanbei Kuroda when he took Odawara Castle for Hideyoshi.
Non-playable characters
New characters
- Nanbu Harumasa
Mount Osore's General who has the power to summon spirits from the underworld and create mind-controlled zombie-like warriors with a special gas.
A general in charge of an academy for soldiers who is also known for his clumsyness, which he tries to get rid of with his training and wields a pike.
- Utsunomiya Hirotsuna
A young aspiring spear fighter who dreams of becoming a samurai and owns a pet white tiger which he uses to impede invading generals multiple times throughout his level.
- Anegakōji Yoritsuna
Leader of the Azure Castle who is a warrior that specializes in using plant-growing techniques, such as spiked trunk and rolling logs and has a fondness for the forest that surrounds the castle. He wields a sword, tree logs and trunks to his attacks.
A rather laid-back samurai that uses sand as a special technique. He also has the ability to hide under sandy ground to elude attackers as well as sending sandstorms toward opponents and wields a sword and the wind of the desert.
Kenshin's boastful officer who proclaims himself invincible. Ironically is the easiest general to defeat.
Reception
Famitsu awarded the PS3 game version 9/9/8/8, for a total of 34/40; the Wii version received 9/8/8/8, or 33/40 [1] Capcom announced later that the game had sold 500,000 units in Japan, bringing the total shipped for the series to 2.1 million.[2]
Soundtrack
The opening theme is "Naked arms" by T.M.Revolution. The American version of the game uses the English version of "Naked Arms" as its opening. The ending theme is "Gyakkō" by Chiaki Ishikawa. The American version of the games uses an instrumental track called "Kizuna, Kokorozashi, Inochi" by Kow Ohtani.
References
- ↑ "Sengoku Basara 3 Famitsu Score - Sengoku Basara: Samurai Heroes Message Board for PlayStation 3". GameFAQs. Retrieved 2014-02-08.
- ↑ "Capcom's Sengoku Basara: Samurai Heroes ships over 500k units in Japan « Gamer Investments". Gamerinvestments.com. 2010-09-07. Retrieved 2014-02-08.