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

Mixed or average reviews - based on 49 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 49
  2. Mixed: 22 out of 49
  3. Negative: 1 out of 49
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  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. Cheat Code Central
    90
    There is a delicateness in the story that is inextricably linked to the violent savagery of the gameplay. It's both sweet and sour or yin and yang. It's Japanese - go figure.
  3. GamePro
    90
    Genji's appeal for hardcore and newbies alike is that it's an excellently crafted example of the good 'ole slice and dicer with just enough challenge to keep things interesting.

User Reviews

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User Score
7.9 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 7 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. 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.… Full Review »
  2. 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.… Full Review »
  3. Nancy
    7
    The gameply: Onimusha+Shinobi=Genji, but the presentation is beautiful and it doesn't have poor english dubs. The game gets a bit repetitive with the hack and slash and the storyline is okay-at best.… Full Review »
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