Kessen

About

Kessen is a turn-based strategy game set during Japan’s Warring States period. You command tens of thousands of troops including archers, infantry, and cavalry across historical battles. The game alternates between strategic planning and real-time combat, where unit positioning and terrain matter heavily. Each conflict plays out on detailed 3D maps with three camera angles to track the chaos. The game’s cutscenes and unit animations stand out, featuring over 100 cinematic segments and distinct visual styles for every soldier type. It was the first PlayStation 2 title shipped on DVD, leveraging the format’s storage for high-quality presentation. While the interface feels dated by modern standards, fans praise its blend of scale and tactical depth. Battles can turn on small decisions, making it a niche pick for strategy enthusiasts.