Total War: Shogun 2
Mar 15, 2011 15 years ago
In Total War: Shogun 2 you choose from one of 9 (10 with Ikko-Ikki dlc) clans, each with their own unique traits and skills and each with their own RPG-style warlord to lead them. Use a mixture of diplomacy, political manoeuvring, province building, research and special agents such as Ninja assassins or Geisha spies to get your enemies exactly where you want them. An intuitive user interface and a lovingly-created, complex and detailed campaign map make it both easy and enjoyable to build and run cities, recruit and move troops and issue commands – both noble and dishonorable, all with the aim of mastering enemy forces and seizing their lands.
What it’s like
Total War: Shogun 2 delivers a meticulously crafted experience that balances grand strategic ambition with visceral tactical combat. You navigate the Sengoku period as one of several clans, managing provinces, researching technologies, and deploying agents like ninjas or geishas to influence the political landscape. The campaign map is dense and interactive, offering deep simulation elements regarding economy and diplomacy without becoming overwhelmingly opaque. On the battlefield, the game shines with its real-time tactics engine, where unit composition, morale, and terrain are critical. The atmosphere is thick with historical immersion, supported by stunning visuals of feudal Japan and a dynamic soundtrack that heightens the tension of war. While the narrative is emergent rather than scripted, your personal warlord’s journey provides a compelling character-driven hook. It is a polished, definitive entry in the series, rewarding players who enjoy complex systems and high-stakes decision-making.
Strong in Atmosphere / MoodAudio / MusicCombatGameplay / MechanicsPolish / PerformanceSystems Depth / Build VarietyCharactersDifficulty / ChallengeExploration / WorldProgression / ReplayabilitySimulation / ManagementVisuals / Art
Keep in mind The steep learning curve may alienate newcomers to grand strategy or real-time tactics. The campaign map can feel cluttered and overwhelming due to its density of information and mechanics.
AI-generated from catalog data, informed by reviews from pcgamer.com, bluntlyhonestreviews.com, ign.com, metacritic.com, gamesradar.com, destructoid.com.
Screenshots
Releases
| Platform | Region | Type | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Linux | Worldwide | Full release | Mar 15, 201115 years ago |
| Mac | Worldwide | Full release | Mar 15, 201115 years ago |
| PC (Microsoft Windows) | Worldwide | Full release | Mar 15, 201115 years ago |
