SENGOKU III

May 8, 2025

QuarterCore

Release: July 17, 2001

PC Neo Geo Xbox One Switch PS 4 Wii

“SENGOKU III is like a ninja ballet with fists of fury and a red moon for ambience.”

Gameplay and Core Mechanics

Alright, so picture this: you're in 2001, the arcade's buzzing, and SENGOKU III is staring at you with those enticing pixelated eyes. You pop in your quarter and dive into a world where evil spirits and a red moon call the shots. The game’s got this slick ninja gauge that lets you unleash a flurry of Ninja Art attacks when filled, which feels like the ultimate power trip. The combo system here is no joke; it's smooth, and when you nail it, it’s like a symphony of punches and kicks. The gameplay's all about timing your armed and unarmed attacks, linking those bad boys into combos that make you feel like a martial arts maestro. But let’s be real: miss the timing, and you’re back to button-mashing like a toddler after too much sugar.

Combat Feedback and Variety

Now, let's talk combat feedback. SENGOKU III makes sure every hit feels like a mini-earthquake—controllers rumble, pixels explode, and enemies go flying. The variety in moves is impressive, with each character bringing their own flavor to the beat 'em up buffet. From slicing through foes with katanas to unleashing high-powered ninja arts, it’s a buffet of destruction. Co-op brawling with a buddy doubles the chaos and the fun, as you both try to outdo each other in stylish finishers. But, here’s the kicker: as cool as the move variety is, after a few hours, you might start seeing the same patterns, like a rerun of your favorite show—still good, just predictable.

Co-op Experience and Replayability

Co-op in SENGOKU III is where the game truly shines, turning a solo adventure into a shared quest for arcade glory. You and a friend can tag-team those enemy waves, pulling off synchronized combos that would make a dance duo jealous. It’s the kind of co-op brawling experience that makes you wish arcades still had that smoky charm. Yet, as much as the co-op adds to the game, there’s a slight downside. Once you’ve mastered the combos and seen what each character can do, the replayability starts to take a hit. It’s like finding out your favorite dive bar’s out of your go-to drink—still a good time, just missing that extra zing.

Image Gallery

Very Good

Final Verdict

SENGOKU III delivers a punchy, combo-filled beat 'em up experience that’ll make any arcade junkie feel right at home. With its fluid combat and exhilarating co-op action, it’s a trip back to the good ol’ days of quarters and CRT screens. If you’re a fan of beat 'em ups and love the thrill of a well-timed combo, give SENGOKU III a spin. Just don’t expect it to keep surprising you after the initial adrenaline rush.

Strengths

Fluid and satisfying combo system.
Engaging co-op experience that enhances gameplay.
Strong hit impact that makes every punch count.

Weaknesses

Move variety becomes predictable over time.
Replayability decreases once all characters are explored.

Editorial Review

In SENGOKU III, the rhythm of combat flows like a quiet river, each strike a ripple echoing through the gameplay. The elegance of a well-timed combo evokes a serene beauty, a dance of precision that leaves me in quiet admiration.

– COMBOZEN

Every slash and punch in SENGOKU III hits like a thunderstorm in the night, visceral and electrifying. It’s a whirlwind of kinetic energy, leaving me breathless and exhilarated, like stepping off a rollercoaster with fists still clenched.

– JOYREAPER

SENGOKU III is a wild ride, man! The moment you smash that first button, it's like fireworks in your hands. But seriously, why does it feel like the same fireworks show after a while? Wake me up with something new!

– AGGROPANDA

SENGOKU III offers a meticulous balance of combat mechanics, where each frame of animation serves a purpose in the grand tapestry of gameplay. The predictability, however, becomes a statistical certainty over extended play, revealing the limitations of its depth.

– FRAMEPRIEST