I was able to play as another character during an introductory mission but the gameplay is largely focused on Naoe and the highly-detailed and stunning visuals of the large map is amazing as Cherry Blossoms to farms, forest, and more all play a part in the appeal as there were times that calling your horse to ride between long distances for a key mission was not always a race against time as being able to enjoy the high level of detail and beauty was never a bad thing.
Players can make a base at the farm of a friend and will be able to upgrade the locale by collecting materials along the way which in turn will help with new abilities and options as a player levels up.
Naturally stealth and combat are a key element of the series and being able to slip in and out of a locale is essential for success as trying to take on everyone is never a good idea no matter how skilled you are.
Taking advantage of tall grass and other natural objects is key as is making a rooftop escape and using cover to move upon an objective. I found one mission where the best option was simply to mount up and make a run for daylight as trying to slip past enemies was not proving effective and having to simply run past them on foot was not fast enough.
The beauty of the game is that players can find multiple solutions to their tasks and can adjust playing styles as needed. Dropping down to eliminate an enemy is always enjoyable but hit and run tactics have their place as well.
The combat is fast, smooth, and brutal, as I enjoyed the finishing moves after taking down enemies. I also enjoyed using my throwing knives to get an enemy off focus and then slipping in to deliver a volley of strikes.
No matter how you opt to play; the game offers numerous main and side missions and will provide hours of solid gameplay that will keep fans hooked.
The sound of the game is also great as the ambient noises and music really add to the immersion and make this one of the most entertaining games in the series to date and one that fans will not want to miss.
4.5 stars out of 5
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