Genji: Dawn of the Samurai (Sony PlayStation 2, 2005)

Pros
+ Lots of fighting with plenty of boss battles mixed in.
+ Fast moving, athletic character.
+ Lots of style & a compelling story.

Cons
- Too much button mashing & searching for upgrades is a chore.
- Without the powers & unique bosses the game is pretty much cookie cutter.
- Too much dialogue & lots of useless cutscenes that break up the gameplay.
- Limited save points.

Comments
This game is some fun to play around with. Camera angles are often frustrating & searching for upgrades is not much fun. But the fast paced action should keep any fan of the action genre playing for at least a few hours. There are two characters playable and their styles are quite different. Hordes of bad guys attack at a time and you will slice your way through them like a champ. Just remember to use block against bosses or you'll be replaying through a lot of game.

Verdict
Worth playing if you are a fan of action games or samurai games. Probably no more than a rental for most though. 3.5/5

To be honest, I thought I was buying a different game at first. And tried to retract my order. But the payment had already been recieved, so I decided to check the game out myself. Boy, am I glad I did.

This is an incredible game with rich artistry and historic flavor. I think I bought a japanese version, because the game is subtitled. This actually adds to the enjoyment of the game. The story is very engaging, and keeps you on your toes. You play one of two fighters in old fuedal Japan, avenging the overthrow of their family. Each has their own individual strengths and weaknesses on how to procede throught each chapter of the story.The combat system is based on a timing criterium. Meaning you get better points for attacking at the right time, rather than standard button mashing. Fortunately, your character(s) are given a little 'help' to tell you just when is the right time to strike.
Altogether, I would definitely recommend this game.

This game has fast game play, blood but not too much. The sword techniques and sword cuts are very accurate. This game is enjoyable to play.

The only downside to the game is the lack of vital health needs in certain sections of the game, preferrably before the main bosses. If they include a few more points to receive health in the game it would be much better.

Great game, good story, and great graphics of feudal Japan.

This game is great for those of you whom enjoy action packed games. With two playable and switchable characters. Each one is better suited for one kind of player. One is for those of you whom enjoy smooth movement and combos. They other is for those whom enjoy just holding a big stick and smacking people with it. The sound and graphics on this game are wonderful. The replay value is kinda what keeps it from being a 5. With many weapons, armor choices, special items, and things to collect and do...this will keep a average gamer busy for around 10 hours. While some of us wouldnt pick up a game with only 10 hours of play, I would if I were you. You wont be disappointed. Hell, Rent it first if you dont believe me.

Absolutely love the graphics of this game. A beautiful world for sure. If you're not into complicated moves but into the fighting stuff, this is the game for you. If you like needing "special moves" and being able to further the character with special "moves" that are remembered (ie: A+B+up+left or stuff like that) it's not so great. You're pretty limited to basic programmed moves and attacks. Other than that, it's alright, pretty good but not the best out there. If you excel at games like mortal combat, where combos are key - you're likely to find this game too easy.