Dynasty Warriors 4: Empires is a videogame developed by Omega Force and published by KOEI Co. Ltd. The game was exclusively released for the PlayStation 2 home console from Sony in August 2004. The title is classed as an action adventure game played from a third person perspective with a lot of influences taken from history and some light fantasy elements. There are also role playing elements and strategic gameplay.

It is another iteration in the long running series based on the Romance of the Three Kingdoms epic story, which details one of the most interesting periods of the history of ancient China. The difference is that the Empires version of the fourth installment actually introduces more strategy gameplay elements than seen before in the franchise.

The main element of the game is the single player campaign. The diversity is staggering as Dynasty Warriors 4: Empires offers players a chance to select from 24 regions that can be controlled and 42 rulers who can lead the small kingdoms. Those who are very involved can even choose to create their own rulers reflecting their personality. Then, they need to guide the small kingdoms to glory and eliminate all rivals.

On each new turn, players can choose from amongst four decisions, which involve assaulting an enemy province or defending one of their own. Once a battle begins, three generals, three lieutenants and their troops are brought in and more traditional Dynasty Warriors combat begins. Strongholds must be controlled and enemy generals can be challenged to a duel with the ultimate goal being the full defeat of enemy forces.

GAMEPLAY HINTS

Cao Cao: Level 10 weapon

Defeat every officer except for Guan Yu before Xu Huang arrives. You will have about ten minutes.

Cao Cao: Level 11 weapon

Defeat every officer except for Guan Yu before Xu Huang arrives and get 200 K.O.s after Guan Yu lets you go.

Here's a quick look at the opening of the game: