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Genji: Dawn of the Samurai PlayStation 2
  • Publisher: SCEA
  • Release Date: Sep 20, 2005
Genji: Dawn of the Samurai Image
Metascore
74 out of 100

Mixed or average reviews - based on 49 Critics What's this?

User Score
7.8 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 6 Ratings

Your Score
10 out of 10
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  • Summary: Genji: Dawn of the Samurai is an intense 3D action-adventure game. Inspired by the 11th century Japanese literary masterpiece, "Tale of Genji," Genji: Dawn of the Samurai provides a dramatic samurai plot fused with fantastical Japanese mythology. This historic samurai tale is set against the beautiful and elegant environments of feudal Japan, and delivers a story of two noble warriors engaged in a crusade against mythical forces controlling Japan. In addition, Genji: Dawn of the Samurai features authentic swordplay choreographed by Japan's leading swordsman, and production directed by acclaimed industry veterans. [SCEA]… Expand

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 49
  2. Mixed: 22 out of 49
  3. Negative: 1 out of 49
  1. TotalPlayStation
    90
    No, it's nothing new, but what it does, it does so well that you can't help but be sucked into this world. The action is near-perfect and the balance of visuals to combat to RPG elements is utterly enchanting.
  2. Game Over Online
    73
    As visually striking and aurally impressive as this game is, the duration of Genji and the gameplay issues keep this from being an incredible game.
  3. Official Playstation 2 Magazine UK
    40
    It's a strange and giant leap back to restrictive, basic gaming that becomes joyless rather quickly. Play "Onimusha" instead. [Nov 2005, p.123]
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See all 49 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. Syc
    9
    A simple but slick, well balanced and thoroughly enjoyable hack n slash with excellent control, tight gameplay and stunning visuals. Not overly long but certainly worth repeat playthroughs.… Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  2. AriS.
    8
    The visuals and sounds were executed extremely well, with a Japanese aesthetic all the way through. To have the giant Lord Benkei walking softly, carrying a big stick, through a serene garden of cherry trees, rolling hills, and babbling brooks, only to let loose with a mighty naginata swing at the first sign of an ambush, bisecting three enemy samurai with one hit, to continue walking softly through the serene area after the blood dried, was somehow tremendously satisfying. I'm sure the use of the Kamui game mechanic, a temporary time slowdown, is somehow important to defeating enemies more easily - I just wish I could figure it out. The timing needed to execute that killer swing is extremely touchy, and the window of opportunity can be measured in milliseconds. Nonetheless, the combat is intriguing, not particularly difficult, and some enemies tend to leave themselves way open, going down with one hit at higher levels. I would have liked to see smarter, stronger, faster, and more enemies in the game (though not all at once!). My biggest complaint is the game's length; readers can quickly see I'm not the only one complaining about how the game should have been longer (probably far longer). It's still very enjoyable, with fun gameplay, awesome graphics, cool moves, and nice weapons and armor. I just would have so liked to see more of the above.… Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  3. ThorikS.
    6
    Game had good graphics the story line is way to short only 3 days of full play to beat it.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes

See all 5 User Reviews