Dynasty Warriors 2

This is it, this is where it started, and I was there. I have so much nostalgia for this game. I still own my original PS2 copy and have been reliving it recently by unlocking all of the characters.

Obviously Dynasty Warriors is a well known title at this point with 9 iterations at this time of writing. However, when I first played DW2 I didn't even realise DW1 existed, just a standard side on fighting game.

Dynasty Warriors 2 was a release title on the PS2, an era where a new console release marked a significant upgrade in development capabilities. So I can't stress enough the mind blowing scale of fighting in a real time battle on a huge map like this. The hack and slash elements may seem simple now but the 3D movement, environments, character designs and mechanics all felt like you were being transported to those battlefields.

Later titles have failed to capture the pain and drudgery of fighting through the hordes of enemies and managing to survive the enemy generals against all odds. There was a steep learning curve but it was all the more satisfying for it.

This game will always hold a special place in my heart.