• Publisher: SCEA
  • Release Date: Sep 20, 2005
Genji: Dawn of the Samurai Image
Metascore

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

User Score

Generally favorable reviews- based on 7 Ratings

  • 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
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 49
  2. Negative: 1 out of 49
  1. 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. A beautiful beat 'em up adventure. The simple counter system is a nice idea. A bit short and easy, though. [Dec 2005]
  3. 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.
  4. It's a strange and giant leap back to restrictive, basic gaming that becomes joyless rather quickly. Play "Onimusha" instead. [Nov 2005, p.123]

See all 49 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 5
  2. 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. Collapse
  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
  3. DragonKnightofFinalFantasy
    7
    This is a great rental. The graphics are nice looking. The sound in Japanese voice-over sounds good enough but I wouldn't know I don9;t speak Japanese. The gameplay plays alot like Onimusha which figures since its run by the same guy. So its kinda the same, even the opening sequence isalot like the one in Onimusha so whats different between the two? one word. Kamui. This is the rise and downfall of this game. Its alot of fun but the attacks are so powerful normal combos seem obsolete so you use Kamui alot and it becomes tiring since normal combos aren't always powerful enough. I also like the RPG elements they're basic though but I'm a sucker for leveling up and equipment hunting. So this is a great rental and if you like it enough you probably should buy it. Expand
  4. 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. Expand

See all 5 User Reviews