Total War: Shogun 2

 PC
  • Publisher: Sega
  • Release Date: Mar 15, 2011
User Score
8.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1448 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,144 out of 1448
  2. Mixed: 216 out of 1448
  3. Negative: 88 out of 1448
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  1. Keron_Heruman
    Aug 25, 2023
    8
    Good game, solid mechanics, well planed tactical battles... Lack of innovation for the TW series, one more, almost the same, game
  2. ReviewsAreBS
    Feb 15, 2023
    10
    You must get the Fall of the Samurai expansion. It combines the best parts of the base game with gunpowder-based warfare of Napoleon total war. While it might not be the overall best Total War (Medieval 2), FotS has the best battles.
  3. Hyperfailure
    Nov 27, 2022
    8
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  4. Thelordofther
    Sep 25, 2022
    10
    Such an amazing game. Holy crap, Shogun 2 is the king of gaming as far as I think
  5. Bigbossbalrog
    Aug 21, 2022
    10
    Utterly fantastic Total War game, it's amazing. Best Total War game ever. Oh yes.
  6. Yaav13
    May 9, 2022
    9
    My truthful honorable incorruptible conclusive rating of this considered game: 9.
  7. drewbrees9
    Apr 30, 2022
    9
    This is easily my favorite strategic of all time. Not for everyone, but if you like these type of stuff this is definetely the best ever
  8. frederik1478
    Mar 2, 2022
    10
    This is my favourite total War game in my favourite game to past time with . still the best balance of any of the total war games and it has some amazing gameplay in graphics still I would recommend it
  9. rezo_21
    Sep 19, 2021
    8
    ====================IIIIIIIIII GAME SCORE : 84 IIIIIIIIII====================
  10. Axilley
    Jul 22, 2021
    8
    good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good goodgood good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good… Expand
  11. Gorbunov2004
    May 30, 2021
    8
    Клёвая игра тематика самураев прикольная. Мне нравиться что каждое убийство это анимация и это круто! Но тупо что когда сёгун тебя замечает то почти все твои союзники тебя предают и у тебя просто не хватает войск чтобы их победить.Клёвая игра тематика самураев прикольная. Мне нравиться что каждое убийство это анимация и это круто! Но тупо что когда сёгун тебя замечает то почти все твои союзники тебя предают и у тебя просто не хватает войск чтобы их победить.
  12. elefsar
    Apr 22, 2021
    9
    Best Total War game ever. Wonderful mechanics and good graphics for its time, good soldier options.
  13. Lazyyybone
    Feb 14, 2021
    8
    토탈워가 보여준 고증이나 적절한 랜덤 닌자와 게이샤 등의 게임요소는 역시 고전이다라고 말할 수 있었다. 오랜 시간 동안 붙잡게 되고 짜증나는데 계속해서 하면 이기는 그 희열감. 좀 아쉬운 건 해전쪽 그거 외에는 트레일러와 컷씬 등 다양한 게임요소에 전국시대를 더 알고싶게 만들었다
  14. MPGSpotter
    Dec 12, 2020
    8
    The last good Total War game. Simple gameplay even the series' infamously braindead AI can grasp, great authentic music, and graphics that look stunning 9 years after release.
  15. Ignattanto
    Dec 4, 2020
    10
    the most beautiful game in the series, and a very enjoyable multiplayer mode.
  16. NorseEinherjar
    Jul 26, 2020
    8
    It's 2020 and I can still go back to this game. And is one of the few Total War games I keep going back to play time to time. Not many games have that replay value and still feels fun each time you play it.

    Shogun 2 have, in my opinion, the smoothest gameplay of all the Total War games. Which makes it a more fun experience to play.
  17. madjo1999
    Jun 26, 2020
    9
    Use Yari Ashigaru and Bow Ashigaru and Profit ,and take Oda for max efficiency
  18. Inuyasha17
    Jun 22, 2020
    10
    It's the most masterpiece in the Total War series. It is the most interesting game.
    It's like a real medieval Japanese war game.
    I think the samurai of that era would have actually been at war like this.
  19. Zaxaroff
    May 16, 2020
    9
    Good game! I love this series since Rome Total War. Got it for free on Steam - happy as an elephant) All the names for me, a European, are very unusual, but in general the game gives great pleasure! Compared to Rome Total War, AI has changed for the better. Now the enemy you are attacking will not stand and wait for your fate, but will try to take the most advantageous position. InGood game! I love this series since Rome Total War. Got it for free on Steam - happy as an elephant) All the names for me, a European, are very unusual, but in general the game gives great pleasure! Compared to Rome Total War, AI has changed for the better. Now the enemy you are attacking will not stand and wait for your fate, but will try to take the most advantageous position. In general, playing has become even more interesting!… Expand
  20. EagleStandart
    May 1, 2020
    8
    One of the revolutionary games of the Total War series. Graphic quality and strategic depth are very good. The atmosphere is at the masterpiece level.
  21. Wiebe
    Feb 26, 2020
    9
    My favorite total war, great map, units and battles, give a great feel for Japan in the era. General and agent upgrades could be more meaningful though.
  22. Shimmeywill
    Feb 26, 2020
    9
    Fantastic visuals, music and unit design make for one of the better modern total war titles.
  23. erdogfu96
    Feb 9, 2020
    10
    One of the best totalwar game I ever played. It was like medieval 3 but more paced and better in every side. With super graphics, sounds fun gameplay and well designed details. It were creative game to make in strategy category.

    Graphics:10/10
    Sounds: 10/10
    Gameplay: 10/10
    Fun: 10/10
  24. GJA
    Jan 30, 2020
    9
    The last truly great total war game. Not as moddable as the previous titles but the game offers a truly great experience in a fun time period. I didn't give it 10/10 only because there are some pathfinding issues on certain sieges but those are easily ignored.
  25. theonlyone21
    Jul 31, 2019
    10
    grat fun game its really good and tthe battles are really fun to play and the clans are historically accurate and pretty good
  26. shatti
    Apr 20, 2019
    10
    super great and polished, the feeling of the game and also the naval is very important and strategic than any total war game since japan is like a large island
  27. kloip
    Jan 27, 2019
    10
    Even tho you may argue that battles may be easy against AI, Shogun 2 delivers excellent gameplay which is easy to learn but difficult to master. Graphics still hold to this day maybe aside from character models. Each clan seems unique, which offers great replayability. Overall excellent game in which I spent many hours and will probably spend a lot more.
  28. Zigwiz13
    May 29, 2016
    10
    This was the second RTS game i played after AOE for a beginner this game was perfect aside from the occasionally mess up form the AI i think this game hits all the expectations they promise
  29. VagueShape
    Feb 25, 2016
    9
    Have lost a ridiculous amount of hours in this comfy strategy game over the years, decided to give it some love on the review website too.

    One of the better total War games ever released and there are some fantastic mods for it to make it even better. If anyone actually hasn't played it yet, go ahead and give it a shot. I highly doubt you'll regret it.
  30. Zafeer
    Jul 7, 2015
    8
    Amazing detail in everything that happens on the battlefield. The game is paced a little too realistically though. Just when my lords are getting really great they get too old to fight and need to be replaced. In fact the real annoyance with this game is it follows the historical timeline too closely. The combat is solid and strategies usually pan out if you plan them well.
  31. gracjanski
    Jul 2, 2015
    9
    This game is great in many aspects: Great graphics, I love this japanes setting, the gameplay is complex and with a strategic and tactical part very interesting. There are a lot of mods that improves the game even more. Especially the KI is better and shows great job on the battle with good maneuvers and only small mistakes (more on the easy level, that you should leave very early ;).This game is great in many aspects: Great graphics, I love this japanes setting, the gameplay is complex and with a strategic and tactical part very interesting. There are a lot of mods that improves the game even more. Especially the KI is better and shows great job on the battle with good maneuvers and only small mistakes (more on the easy level, that you should leave very early ;).
    There are some problems ingame: Realm Divide: When you have a lot of power and your victory is not so far away every KI is starting to be hostile to you and almost all of KI Clan declare war on you (even your allies). In the reality you would have no chance, but this mechanic is only designed to have only an artificial challenge -.- , so the whole Japan will not attack you at once. Is is realistic, is it fun? No. Fortunately there are mods, that changes this. Another mere little problem is the KI on the campaign part, that shows illogical moves and the same in the diplomatic system. Why on earth do my most powerful clan pay tribute to very weak clans to get a trade treaty or military agreement? They should give me money for that. Other bad points are the very small manual, for this complex game you need a good manual and not this consolish paper. I dont like the binding to steam either. 9/10 from me    … Expand
  32. ovenbaked
    Jun 28, 2015
    10
    This is a game that seriously stands out and grips you as any good game should. With intelligent AI, massive amounts of content and detail you'll be a fan of the old ways in a seconds. From the beautiful introduction into the campaign, to the extremely competitive online play. I'll be totally honest, it's the most satisfying online game I've come across. There are great visuals that onlyThis is a game that seriously stands out and grips you as any good game should. With intelligent AI, massive amounts of content and detail you'll be a fan of the old ways in a seconds. From the beautiful introduction into the campaign, to the extremely competitive online play. I'll be totally honest, it's the most satisfying online game I've come across. There are great visuals that only become loosened if you have a rather powerful graphics card and this game was one of those where I had to upgrade, and yep it was worth it. Simply put Shogun 2 feels like a complex and exciting version of chess that is elegant and efficient. I would say it is the best strategy game of all time in my opinion. Excluding chess though. :P… Expand
  33. emter
    Jun 8, 2015
    10
    Personally, I think this is the ultimate Total War game so far with a great balance in the turn-based campaign and real-time battles. It's also a great reminder of the first game in the series while the game itself is innovative and fresh.
  34. tsakiym
    May 12, 2015
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I do not have to say anything more. But i need to write one hundred and fifty characters. i think my score can describe it............................… Expand
  35. pierrem
    Sep 25, 2014
    10
    Just excellent game, only bettered by FOTS DLC. Little replayability though : all factions feel the same, but ikko ikki. The AI is the best in a TW game, even the diplomacy is good (unique in a TW game which all have **** AI diplomates)
  36. Jomanponer
    Jun 8, 2014
    10
    This game takes me back to the good ol days. Such good memories from playing this game, I remember my first game I just had mongol against one unit to see the devastation. This game blew me off my feet, after seeing Napoleon total war I thought CA was taking steps back and was scared of what shogun would be, I was wrong big time. Personally, If I had to live with only 1 total war game itThis game takes me back to the good ol days. Such good memories from playing this game, I remember my first game I just had mongol against one unit to see the devastation. This game blew me off my feet, after seeing Napoleon total war I thought CA was taking steps back and was scared of what shogun would be, I was wrong big time. Personally, If I had to live with only 1 total war game it would be shogun 2/rome I total war ^^. This game was a blast I felt that it had a very solid campaign, great graphics, an overall decent AI compared to other total war games. I felt that it is also the only total war game with fluid animations that look real and the battles, are intense and brutal. Only thing I did not enjoy about this game was lack of units to choose from but this was kind of made up for with mods and DLC's but I would have liked for each clan to have there own unit types and such. By far the most game I have ever played used to spend hours each day with friends just multiplayer battle after multiplayer battle. And the multiplayer campaign with friends with junk food and watching tv was the best gaming moments I have had along with a few moments from skyrim with friends, and chivalry. Great game was so good made me hate rome total war 2. DLC's for this game were surprisingly good though I felt that fall of samurai was ehm op lets say compared to the normal game but, it did not matter since you could choose in multiplayer to fight with only shogun 2 players or along with fall of samurai.

    My overall scores:

    Gameplay: 10/10

    Graphics: 10/10

    Community: 12/10 (best community so far, for me at least)

    Multiplayer: 100/10 (cannot be matched!)

    Units: 8/10

    campaign: 11/10

    animations: over 9000

    final score: badass game, that is so fun to play and even more fun to play with friends.    … Expand
  37. SamuelFrench
    May 30, 2014
    10
    THE ONLY PLAYABLE TOTAL WAR!!

    So the other Total War games don't have a listing of all the armies, navies, agents, etc that allow you to keep track of which ones you've already attended to even if you choose not to move. That alone makes this really the only playable game. The other ones, including rome 2, are way to cumbersome and it takes all day to make the turn. I'm addicted.    THE ONLY PLAYABLE TOTAL WAR!!

    So the other Total War games don't have a listing of all the armies, navies, agents, etc that allow you to keep track of which ones you've already attended to even if you choose not to move. That alone makes this really the only playable game. The other ones, including rome 2, are way to cumbersome and it takes all day to make the turn.

    I'm addicted.

    I am the type to get bored of a game super easily, and I play this game every second I can, which means playing 11pm to 4:30AM when I have work at 9AM.

    The graphics are still amazing in 2014, and the game runs on all maxed settings even when I had a 560ti.

    The diplomacy is shallow, and the economy of the game leaves me wanting more (I'm a nerd), but most people would not like having to go so in depth.

    The battle gameplay is fantastic and very in-depth. The generals and family tree is fun.

    Try it. It will provide the most bang for the buck for any game on the market.

    Only complaint is the UI gets buggy when you try to do 1000 things all at once clicking like a mad man on the campaign map. Can't fault them because the game works except when you are trying to move 3 armies literally at the same time.    … Expand
  38. smeeeee
    May 27, 2014
    10
    Strategy games can, honestly, never get better than this. Excellent campaign map, clear, concise tutorial, awesome naval battles, and bunches of detail, from the katana of a samurai to the biggest mountain.
  39. SoridoSuneku
    Mar 27, 2014
    10
    The greatest RTS game I have played, where other RTS's feel chaotic and are filled with infinitely spawning units this game feels completely controlled and a blast to play, as well as watch, as all characters on screen are individually modeled, and at times there can be over 10,000 characters on screen at the same time and I rarely get any lag.
  40. Papaflower
    Mar 26, 2014
    9
    Shogun 2 is clearly the best game of the total war franchise. Of course there is room for improvement but judging from rome 2 this "improvement" won't come from CA in the near future.
  41. junedragon3
    Mar 20, 2014
    10
    Rich with entertaining features, beautifully designed, and an overall excellent experience. Plays just as a Total War game should, even above the elevated standards of the franchise. Replaying this game is the perfect way to remind yourself how great TW can be in the aftermath of the Rome II debacle.
  42. jmcc87
    Feb 18, 2014
    9
    This is the best strategy game I've ever played. The experience was as exciting as playing Rome when it came out about ten years ago but with obvious improvements in graphics. I was pretty disappointed with Empire when it came out (particularly the overall strategy of the game which was far less complex than previous Total War games) but liked certain aspects of the game such as longThis is the best strategy game I've ever played. The experience was as exciting as playing Rome when it came out about ten years ago but with obvious improvements in graphics. I was pretty disappointed with Empire when it came out (particularly the overall strategy of the game which was far less complex than previous Total War games) but liked certain aspects of the game such as long range trade routes, improved diplomacy and tech trees. Shogun however manages to take on all the improvements of Empire while staying true to the strategic greatness of Rome (and Medieval 2).
    I was addicted to this game for about 6 months in 2013 and started getting really excited for Rome 2 thinking that it would be even better but having seen the overwhelming negative reviews for it I haven't even bought it yet. Creative Assembly needs to bring out a new game based on the foundation set by Shogun 2!    … Expand
  43. p1212
    Feb 1, 2014
    10
    Awesome, i loved this game, is my favorite video game of all that i have played all my life :), the map, the story, the graphics, well, all is awesome compared to another strategy games, congratulations creative assembly :D
  44. CaptainThom
    Jan 26, 2014
    8
    It took me long time to get into Shogun 2 but with some help from Radious Mod i have to say that i'm really enjoying Shogun 2 now. The artstyle and graphics are amazing in the vanilla shogun and the music really adds to the atmosphere especially on the campaign map, which looks and feels beautiful.

    The AI is a lot better in Shogun 2 and i found myself really struggling at times against    It took me long time to get into Shogun 2 but with some help from Radious Mod i have to say that i'm really enjoying Shogun 2 now. The artstyle and graphics are amazing in the vanilla shogun and the music really adds to the atmosphere especially on the campaign map, which looks and feels beautiful.

    The AI is a lot better in Shogun 2 and i found myself really struggling at times against large stacks of enemies landing behind my lines, especially after Real divide. The battle AI still has its flaws for instance generals still rush into danger and the tactics it employs can be pretty predictable, however on the whole its alot better.

    However vanilla Shogun 2 has to little unit variety for my liking hence why i was forced to use Radious Mod and while i like the RPG elements on agents and generals CA seem to have removed a lot of the natural growth generals had in earlier titles. Naval battles are also quite hit and miss but that might just be because i'm a terrible admiral.

    Taking all into consideration Shogun 2 is a great game, it doesn't reach the heights of M2:TW or Rome:TW in my opinion but its alot better than Empire or Rome 2.    … Expand
  45. Axlyss
    Dec 20, 2013
    9
    Honestly after the rome 2 disaster i was hesitant on trying the newer total war games.. Boy was i wrong this game gets naval and land combat right its honestly a blast to see two groups of samurai split off for 1v1 combat in a skirmish. Not the big clump of men rome 2 has... The campaign map can be a pain to navigate with frequent slow downs on older PC's. Also this is the first total warHonestly after the rome 2 disaster i was hesitant on trying the newer total war games.. Boy was i wrong this game gets naval and land combat right its honestly a blast to see two groups of samurai split off for 1v1 combat in a skirmish. Not the big clump of men rome 2 has... The campaign map can be a pain to navigate with frequent slow downs on older PC's. Also this is the first total war game i played were in multiplayer more Calvary doesn't equal a win.… Expand
  46. BatFat09
    Nov 21, 2013
    9
    Another great addition to the total war series. These games are consistently getting better with each release. The new skills for generals, and the multi-stage siege battles keep me on the edge of my seat.
  47. jadereviewer
    Oct 6, 2013
    10
    this game is truly the pinnacle of Total war, and all strategy games. Awesome graphics, create campaign map, this is a release to be proud off. Currently clocked 360 hours and even the release of Rome 2 isn't slowing me down.
  48. orctown-troll
    Sep 28, 2013
    8
    This is a very good game, and I love it.

    However it does game design a disservice to pretend that this is a 10/10 game. It isn't. Much as it pains me to say, this game has a number of serious design flaws that leave it a long way from perfection. First and worst is the design of the single player campaign. It seems the crew in CA are unable to grasp the key point that a factional civil    This is a very good game, and I love it.

    However it does game design a disservice to pretend that this is a 10/10 game. It isn't. Much as it pains me to say, this game has a number of serious design flaws that leave it a long way from perfection. First and worst is the design of the single player campaign. It seems the crew in CA are unable to grasp the key point that a factional civil war requires a POLITICAL game. Personalities, loyalties, betrayals, economic considerations, deals and diplomacy SHOULD be at the heart of the experience. But NONE of that is there. CA has a very simple political model based on linear expansion of an empire. There is nothing that approaches wheeling or dealing or THINKING requires in the campaign EVER. Nor can we take any deal or alliance seriously, since the AI always breaks its deals and alliances on a whim. Over-all this is the tragedy of the creative Assembly. They have failed to grasp what was good about Rome (1). And they have failed to develop any kind of political-diplomatic engine or gameplay. A big fail.

    Beyond that all the actual war mechanics: The UI, the graphic art. unit balancing, music, voice work, in-game movies are all BRILLIANT! magnificent! Multiplayer is fantastic with the avatar system. All the nuts and bolts of a brilliant franchise are polished and chromed and gleaming. There is definitely too much time lost in loading screens. Other than that, its a fantastically built game.

    But at its heart, a true heart is missing.

    We can appreciate that in Rome 2, there is the beginning of CA trying to expand the victory conditions: they have the idea of an 'economic' or 'cultural' victory. But nowhere near enough. They probably need to hire a team to rebuild the core of gameplay, but a lot of energy and resources into getting the HEART of the game right. When they append their own great visual assets to an enhanced, politically-focused engine they will finally pull their franchise out of the swamp of perennial 'could have been great' titles and achieve an honestly great game. Nothing else would be a just reward for all the great things CA has given gaming over the years than to see them reach Nirvana, turn the corner, and hit a home run.

    Shogun 2 was a great effort, but caught in the outfield.

    orctowngrot    … Expand
  49. HannibalSmith92
    Sep 11, 2013
    10
    I love to play it.
    You have many different units and clans you can play. Also you must organize your towns (when you play campaign) very good otherwise you get rebellions etc.
    The AI is very very good (battle and campaign). Last time i played campaign on hard, one clan nearly took over the whole country. The graphic is very good too, you can choose between Dx 9 or 11. I play it on 11    I love to play it.
    You have many different units and clans you can play. Also you must organize your towns (when you play campaign) very good otherwise you get rebellions etc.
    The AI is very very good (battle and campaign). Last time i played campaign on hard, one clan nearly took over the whole country.
    The graphic is very good too, you can choose between Dx 9 or 11. I play it on 11 with all settings on the highest option and its very nice to see.    … Expand
  50. mcmanusaur
    Sep 7, 2013
    8
    ---Rating---
    Design: 4 /5 (solid, but recycles a familiar formula and is limited in scope)
    Polish: 5 /5 (excellent visuals and an altogether refined experience) Value: 3 /5 (slightly limited replay value, but a very good buy at a discount) ---Review--- I found the game's depiction of the Japanese culture/setting to be quite interesting, and the graphics and sound are certainly nice    ---Rating---
    Design: 4 /5 (solid, but recycles a familiar formula and is limited in scope)
    Polish: 5 /5 (excellent visuals and an altogether refined experience)
    Value: 3 /5 (slightly limited replay value, but a very good buy at a discount)

    ---Review---
    I found the game's depiction of the Japanese culture/setting to be quite interesting, and the graphics and sound are certainly nice enough. The solid real-time battle gameplay remains intact, though I did have some minor yet frustrating problems with units not being responsive enough to commands in multiplayer modes. The other main issue I noticed was the variants of siege battlefields- both few and uninteresting- being recycled by the game, which causes this kind of battle to feel repetitive.

    As far as the campaign goes, it leaves a bit to be desired in my opinion. I can't really see them adding too much greater detail to Japan, but the gameplay definitely begs for a bigger and more interesting campaign map. One main island and two smaller ones (with nothing but a few trade posts beyond) simply doesn't produce the kind of interesting scenarios that the inclusion of Hokkaido, Okinawa, or even Korea could have created. Moreover, movement is extremely restricted in the limited area that is accessible, with the forests and mountains leaving one or two narrow lanes through each province.

    The way that play progresses, you will only ever be in contact with about 5-8 other clans- initially those bordering your province(s)- and not too many turns later there will invariably be about seven or so clans spanning the entire map. I have always found TW titles' endgame to be something of a chore/slog, so I have always preferred experiencing the perspective of multiple different factions over playing through an entire campaign from start to finish, but sadly one's ability to do the former is very limited in this game. In line with that, for me the most glaring issue with the game is the unnecessary restrictions of which clans the player can choose without purchasing additional DLC, but others may not share my detest for the DLC-based business model.

    All in all, TW:S2 suffers from a distinct lack of choices and replay value but still manages to be a decent and enjoyable game, if simply adhering to the familiar TW formula.    … Expand
  51. rikasan
    Sep 7, 2013
    9
    Great game! It does not change the old good mechanics of previous installment of the title, but adds some minor flavors to change the experience. It has stunning graphic and excellent music.
  52. iopuge
    Sep 5, 2013
    10
    Only after playing Rome 2 I released how good Shogun 2 was. Here we have user friendly and nice interface. Family tree which ensures great roleplay. Graphics are great and Sakura are amazingly beautiful

    I strongly recommend to try this game if you never played TW games before. Rome 2 currently is a huge mess.
  53. AlexWizz
    Sep 5, 2013
    10
    If you have ever played any other total war game you know exactly what you are getting into. A very strong strategy game with in depth and detailed units that will have you're jaw dropped. Something a little bit new in this installment is the animations, hand to hand combat has never looked so good. Other than the looks, the actual game will have you sit down in your chair and have youIf you have ever played any other total war game you know exactly what you are getting into. A very strong strategy game with in depth and detailed units that will have you're jaw dropped. Something a little bit new in this installment is the animations, hand to hand combat has never looked so good. Other than the looks, the actual game will have you sit down in your chair and have you think about the future of your clan, truly a thinking man's game, have Christianity spread through your lands and you may have a split in society, some saying you have lost your tradition, others praising you for open mindedness. Anyways this is a great buy!… Expand
  54. bonaros75
    Sep 5, 2013
    9
    After playing all of the Total War games, I could easily crown this the reigning champion.

    Its easy to admire the wonderful graphics and solid UI, but where it shines is in its subtle aspects (Historical accuracy, the way agents and armies/towns synergies, etc). There is a completeness to the gameplay that is hard to capture and present to an audience. Overall, Shogun is best at what    After playing all of the Total War games, I could easily crown this the reigning champion.

    Its easy to admire the wonderful graphics and solid UI, but where it shines is in its subtle aspects (Historical accuracy, the way agents and armies/towns synergies, etc).

    There is a completeness to the gameplay that is hard to capture and present to an audience. Overall, Shogun is best at what it does. So do yourself a favor and get this one.    … Expand
  55. Lonas
    Sep 5, 2013
    10
    This game is great and has good music.

    Multiplayer quick battle matchmaking: Its very punishing on new players because of veteran units gaining more stats however if you keep at it you'll eventually have those veteran units. I've played this part of the game the most as its very fun. Only thing I wouldn't recommend is having a normal Shogun 2 army fighting a Fall of the Samurai army.    This game is great and has good music.

    Multiplayer quick battle matchmaking: Its very punishing on new players because of veteran units gaining more stats however if you keep at it you'll eventually have those veteran units. I've played this part of the game the most as its very fun. Only thing I wouldn't recommend is having a normal Shogun 2 army fighting a Fall of the Samurai army.

    Single player campaign: Takes quite a few hours to complete a single campaign. Realm divide is just plain annoying and wasn't expected the first time I ran into it and sadly the higher difficulties aren't as enjoyable because you're stuck defending the whole game. If you don't mind preparing for realm divide it can be fun.

    Co-op Campaign: I've only completed maybe three of these. You can share units with your friend in battles so they have something to do other than watch the fight which is nice.

    Only real complaint about this game is the loading times. (An example of this is the start up load screen takes about 2 minutes every time.) Other than that its an amazing game and I recommend it.    … Expand
  56. iamymr
    Sep 5, 2013
    10
    Ah, dear Shogun 2. After playing the mess that is Total War Rome 2, I am constantly reminded of the things you did right and your greatness.

    Music, battles, theme, voices, blood pack DLC, Rock Paper Scissors elements, agents, family trees, skill trees, the list goes on. The only fault I can think of is the over-reliance on foreign trade points. Other than that, my dear Hojo clan    Ah, dear Shogun 2. After playing the mess that is Total War Rome 2, I am constantly reminded of the things you did right and your greatness.

    Music, battles, theme, voices, blood pack DLC, Rock Paper Scissors elements, agents, family trees, skill trees, the list goes on.

    The only fault I can think of is the over-reliance on foreign trade points.

    Other than that, my dear Hojo clan and my first memories of this game shall remain my favorite of all the Total War series!    … Expand
  57. PCgamesreviewer
    Sep 4, 2013
    8
    Pros:
    -Good graphics
    -Great strategy game
    -Lots of re-play value.
    -Nice musik

    Cons:
    -Factions are very similar.
    -AI does some stupid things sometimes
    -To much rock,paper,scissors tactics.

    Conclusion: Is the best Total War to date but still suffers from sometimes stupid AI.
    Can certainly be recommended.
  58. abasche
    Sep 3, 2013
    9
    Why you should buy it:
    -Stunning graphics
    -Realistic feel to combat -Actual strategy is involved in the battles -Town management isn't too complex but is just enough to make you feel like you have real control -The two research trees make the game more dynamic and add a fantastic level to your ability to customize -Gameplay is fun, challenging, and makes you want to take "just one    Why you should buy it:
    -Stunning graphics
    -Realistic feel to combat
    -Actual strategy is involved in the battles
    -Town management isn't too complex but is just enough to make you feel like you have real control
    -The two research trees make the game more dynamic and add a fantastic level to your ability to customize
    -Gameplay is fun, challenging, and makes you want to take "just one more turn"

    Why you shouldn't buy it:
    -The time limit for the game means you have to play against the clock (although you can get a mod that changes this)
    -Graphically demanding battles
    -AI allies are relatively incompetent

    Conclusion: I'd say if you enjoy turn-based strategy games, you REALLY should invest in this one.    … Expand
  59. RicardoTor
    Aug 9, 2013
    10
    Excellent game. I have played almost 100 hours already and need to admit that Shogun 2 sets new quality standards for gaming industry. Graphics, gameplay, many small features make this game just amazing.
  60. Gol_Stoan
    Aug 8, 2013
    9
    I thoroughly enjoy this game, being a longtime fan of the Total War series. I do wish that the cutscenes had more polish to them, sometimes I think the in-game characters actually have more detail. I am glad to see Total War go back to its roots. The game looks absolutely gorgeous, and plays how I would expect a Total War game to play, a lovely remake of the original.

    Now, I have    I thoroughly enjoy this game, being a longtime fan of the Total War series. I do wish that the cutscenes had more polish to them, sometimes I think the in-game characters actually have more detail. I am glad to see Total War go back to its roots. The game looks absolutely gorgeous, and plays how I would expect a Total War game to play, a lovely remake of the original.

    Now, I have noticed some of the more negative reviews on here complaining about how small the campaign map is and the lack of unit variety. Well, what exactly are you expecting from a game focused on feudal Japan? I put this game in the same category as the Britannia campaign in the Medieval 2 Kingdoms expansion which was focused entirely on the british isles. It is a much more tightly focused map than say Rome, Empire, or Medieval 2 proper, where you have all of Europe to conquer. Also being Japan, how different would the factions really be? It is all the same culture, one that had been kept isolated from the rest of the world for centuries. A culture that absolutely mastered sword making, but in all that time somehow never invented something as basic as the shield.

    There are a couple of things I would like to see added in as DLC or a full on expansion, though maybe I will have to wait for mods as CA's main focus has shifted to Rome 2. Remake the Mongol Invasion expansion to the original Shogun, and maybe do another expansion based on Toyotomi Hideyoshi's failed attempt to invade Korea in 1592. Those would add a good bit more variety to the game I think.    … Expand
  61. HazeSpire
    Jul 4, 2013
    9
    A must have for all gamers fascinated by feudal Japan. Great graphics, awesome soundtrack, solid gameplay and heaps of replay value. Highly recommended!
  62. Toffenuff
    Jun 19, 2013
    9
    Never played multipalyer for this game, but I did like the campaign mode. I am an avid Total War fan all the way to the first Shogun game, so I was giddy when I heard they were making a modern sequel. As I expected, it is much similar to the first game but with massive improvements in graphics, AI, game elements, and gameplay. The AI is still not the best, but it still does a good job andNever played multipalyer for this game, but I did like the campaign mode. I am an avid Total War fan all the way to the first Shogun game, so I was giddy when I heard they were making a modern sequel. As I expected, it is much similar to the first game but with massive improvements in graphics, AI, game elements, and gameplay. The AI is still not the best, but it still does a good job and generally makes smart moves. Sometimes the AI definitely gets to be in a pain in the neck when they make a move that I unfortunately failed to see coming and they begin razing my towns ugh! But that's part of the fun of this game.

    The best part, other than the actual strategic elements on the campaign map, are of course the real-time battles that you can dive into. My gaming rig thankfully can handle maxed out graphics, and this baby is GORGEOUS! I wish there was blood and gore though; I honestly haven't checked if there's a mod or DLC for that yet.

    I wish the mini-cut scenes for agents were more varied, but as always I am intrigued to watch and see whether they succeed or fail. Speaking of cut scenes, the generals' speeches before every battle are always fun to listen to and watch. Yes, they if you think about it they are kinda funny and cheesy, but if you set your mind to it you do appreciate that they try to make it inspirational and immersive that way.

    While some reviews here complain that all it really comes down to is who has the bigger army, particularly in caste sieges, I beg to differ. I have won countless battles now in my dozens of hours of gameplay where I was outnumbered, sometimes even 2:1. What truly matters is unit experience, unit type, and how you deploy them in the battlefield.

    One grip I do have about the sieges is that the fortress/city or whatever aren't realistic or as expansive/detailed as you would expect one to be. It's mostly a huge empty space where your army is deployed, guard towers (if you have any), maybe a building or two and a shrine, and then the walls. That's about it, which is unrealistic. That said, it is nice to see there are buildings beyond the walls, like small villages around the main city, but again even those aren't as big as they should be.

    One of the best RTS games you can play, with samurais and ninjas! How awesome is that?? Very.    … Expand
  63. Just_awesome
    Jun 5, 2013
    9
    Good game, but the game has some downsides, like the Realm divide. Still a very good game. The massive battles are fun as hell! I recommend this game to any Total War game. If you are not sure, play the demo or wait for Rome 2!
  64. kwinki
    May 22, 2013
    9
    Played this game for around 900 hours solo in campaign mode. It's extremely addictive. There are 2 things bad to say about this game. Siege battles are sometimes unplayable because units are stuck behind a wall, don't respond to your orders etc..Same happened with the previous ones and it sometimes ruined your whole campaign!! Another disadvantage is that their is pretty much no unitPlayed this game for around 900 hours solo in campaign mode. It's extremely addictive. There are 2 things bad to say about this game. Siege battles are sometimes unplayable because units are stuck behind a wall, don't respond to your orders etc..Same happened with the previous ones and it sometimes ruined your whole campaign!! Another disadvantage is that their is pretty much no unit variation like rome and medieval.… Expand
  65. Orctownorc
    Apr 28, 2013
    8
    After 50+ solo campaigns and 2k hours multiplayer, all DLC plus maxed out avatars, I can confirm that this is a good game. The multiplayer is the true core of the game and close to perfect if you can be patient with the standard rough edges of the online community. However the single player game is finally pretty BAD. Diplomacy, trade and political economy are all undeveloped. Shogun 2 isAfter 50+ solo campaigns and 2k hours multiplayer, all DLC plus maxed out avatars, I can confirm that this is a good game. The multiplayer is the true core of the game and close to perfect if you can be patient with the standard rough edges of the online community. However the single player game is finally pretty BAD. Diplomacy, trade and political economy are all undeveloped. Shogun 2 is just another case of the same old campaign: conquer 50 territories and win. Nothing has changed or improved from the first Shogun in this regard. CA needs to put much more time and effort into designing a campaign that has more to it than a boring, repetitive, unrealistic mechanical expansion of a realm. They could learn a thing or two from Paradox Interactive and at least attempt to add some dimensions of diplomacy and pschological nuance to the machine. Diplomacy and trade need total (pun) re-building. And the economic management of territiories also needs much more depth. In all honesty Rome 2 will not be a better game if CA only continues to upgrade the visuals and animations. Much more care thought and effort is needed in building a campaign structure that actually requires thought and diplomatic effort to win.… Expand
  66. Takagi
    Apr 25, 2013
    9
    Being a big fan of the Total War franchise I really enjoyed this game. Everything in it lived up to my expectations for it. The only drawbacks in the game is a lack of variety when it comes to units, the new focus on DLCs and the fact that easier AI opponents tend to be easier because they are stupid and exhibit typical 'stupid AI'-behavior. However, missing unit variety does not take awayBeing a big fan of the Total War franchise I really enjoyed this game. Everything in it lived up to my expectations for it. The only drawbacks in the game is a lack of variety when it comes to units, the new focus on DLCs and the fact that easier AI opponents tend to be easier because they are stupid and exhibit typical 'stupid AI'-behavior. However, missing unit variety does not take away any of the wonderful fun in commanding large armies in your quest for the title of Shogun in single player, and even the new DLC focus can be forgiven with the release of great DLCs like The Rise- and The Fall of the Samurai. The 'stupid AI'-problem can be fixed by upping the difficulty of the game or by playing the multiplayer segment. Even this multiplayer segment is very well done and can present a true challenge to everyone.
    All in all the game is great and should be recommended to anyone who likes commanding armies in a mix between real time and turn based strategy.
    I look forward to see what is next for the Total War Series.    … Expand
  67. Alchemik
    Apr 25, 2013
    9
    To truly rate this game you should not only buy the the main version, but also spend some money on DLCs, unlocking all the clans and special units. They add quite a lot of diversity and make the game more interesting, creating new strategic options and giving you some extra challenge when adapting to certain enemy advantages. The cost of those add-ons, from which most we shouldn't have toTo truly rate this game you should not only buy the the main version, but also spend some money on DLCs, unlocking all the clans and special units. They add quite a lot of diversity and make the game more interesting, creating new strategic options and giving you some extra challenge when adapting to certain enemy advantages. The cost of those add-ons, from which most we shouldn't have to pay for IMO, are the main reason I won't give it 10. The game mechanics, graphics and pure joy battles will give you are incredible and it's worth every dime you spend on it, but still unlocking some of it's content is clearly overpriced and it's hard not to be at least a little disgusted with how Sega manages those.… Expand
  68. Estus
    Apr 21, 2013
    10
    It's a game simply charming and extremely immersive. I just think they could have improved a little more art and design, like the avatars and graphics a bit more affordable for most computers.
  69. BlackSalamander
    Apr 1, 2013
    9
    I've been playing the game since its release and have more than 500 hours of gameplay. During this time I've found a single Bug, and the game has never crashed.
    Bug:
    http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/2268/2012010800001.jpg Compared to its predecessors: + better graphics + Gunners & Archers shoot more realistic + smarter AI + useful agents + well animated combats + awesome special    I've been playing the game since its release and have more than 500 hours of gameplay. During this time I've found a single Bug, and the game has never crashed.
    Bug:
    http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/2268/2012010800001.jpg

    Compared to its predecessors:
    + better graphics
    + Gunners & Archers shoot more realistic
    + smarter AI
    + useful agents
    + well animated combats
    + awesome special Abilities such as the warshout of the warrior monks
    - every faction has pretty the same units
    - small Map

    Overall it's an awesome game like all of its predecessors.    … Expand
  70. Relian
    Mar 5, 2013
    10
    The best strategy game I've played since Civilization. I've probably put more hours into this game than any other, it has excellent replayability. Highly recommended for strategy fans.

    It plays similarly to other Total War games, but with some improvements like better resource management and soldier management.
  71. Xsonic
    Jan 4, 2013
    10
    Truly one of the most addicting games I've ever played, yesterday I spent 13 hours straight in a Co-Op match with a random guy, and he bought the game 2 days ago, and we had a blast! I have been playing Shogun 2 for over a year and they still keep updating the game from time to time, multiplayer connection issues are ironed away. The only drawback for this game might be the public chatTruly one of the most addicting games I've ever played, yesterday I spent 13 hours straight in a Co-Op match with a random guy, and he bought the game 2 days ago, and we had a blast! I have been playing Shogun 2 for over a year and they still keep updating the game from time to time, multiplayer connection issues are ironed away. The only drawback for this game might be the public chat rooms are quiet most of the time : / There are still many people playing it, I logged at 3 AM and decided to play a custom match 4v4, and found one right away.… Expand
  72. NocheShade
    Dec 30, 2012
    9
    It's like Rome but with Japan and co-op.I much prefer the clan choice to all other total war games and I prefer the map even if it's a little small.Still really good.
  73. FramerTerminate
    Dec 19, 2012
    8
    Being a hardened veteran of the total war series since shogun total war 1, I have seen the evolution this series from the start. I will say that shogun 2 brought some improvements to the real time fighting that I could only dream of in medieval total war. The game is beautiful and most all aspects of the game provide a satisfying challenge. If you play online you will later findBeing a hardened veteran of the total war series since shogun total war 1, I have seen the evolution this series from the start. I will say that shogun 2 brought some improvements to the real time fighting that I could only dream of in medieval total war. The game is beautiful and most all aspects of the game provide a satisfying challenge. If you play online you will later find yourself capable of taking on any enemy AI army outnumbered 5 to 1 but that makes you feel good as well. I personally find the siege battles to be less engaging than other total war titles due to the fact that in 1500 Japan a castle was actually just a giant dirt mound with some small walls built around it. Thus siege equipment is almost completely irrelevant. The tech tree is quite well done in this title which is definitly a plus. However there are two things in my opinion that make the game not so fun to play at times. One of them is the drawn out load times. When you launch the game it takes 60 -180 seconds to get past the initial load screen. Not only that but the load screens in between battles and the campaign map last 20-60 seconds. That is way too long to be left as acceptable. The 2nd problem is that although no longer prominent at the time I write this, the game was released in a state that contained a million and one things that could cause it to crash, desync, or black out on you for no apparent reason. Multiplayer in particular was prone to crashes and corruption every few turns. It took the devs about a year and a half to properly iron out of all these bugs. These may only be 2 problems that I have listed but they were so major I tear up at the memory of how many times my game would crash, force me to load for 2 minutes, and then crash again.… Expand
  74. PlayerReview
    Nov 13, 2012
    10
    Not just Strategy; Out of the 10,000+ games made, I think this is the best ever. It takes everything I loved from Rome:TW, and moves it to the current generation... I am so excited for Rome 2 that I just **** my pants.
  75. Jacomus
    Oct 6, 2012
    9
    It's nice that the Creative A. went back to japan again, i love that time in which the samurai ruled. There are not many changes compared to previous parts but everything is perfected. I give it a 9 because, like the first shogun, this game draws you into a piece of history, it has great fitting music and the great gameplay. Graphics are nice but I don't think that is a priority to thisIt's nice that the Creative A. went back to japan again, i love that time in which the samurai ruled. There are not many changes compared to previous parts but everything is perfected. I give it a 9 because, like the first shogun, this game draws you into a piece of history, it has great fitting music and the great gameplay. Graphics are nice but I don't think that is a priority to this genre. This game will keep me busy for a while.… Expand
  76. markorply
    Aug 25, 2012
    10
    I was introduced to the total war series/franchise by Rome:Total war and after I bought shogun 2 it felt like I really was the shogunete ruling japan with an iron fist.I honestly think shogun 2 is the best modern graphics and gameplay wise RTS game that players have been waiting for
  77. BarkSpear
    Jul 30, 2012
    8
    A very solid and enjoyable game. Admittedly, the unit variety isn't awe inspiring. Neither is the replay ability, as every clan is almost identical. Also, loading times are HUUUUUUGGEEEE and the ai is a bit shoddy. It's really incredibly annoying when your guys refuse to turn and fight or fire until they're all in nicely arranged lines......then they're ridden down by cavalry while they'reA very solid and enjoyable game. Admittedly, the unit variety isn't awe inspiring. Neither is the replay ability, as every clan is almost identical. Also, loading times are HUUUUUUGGEEEE and the ai is a bit shoddy. It's really incredibly annoying when your guys refuse to turn and fight or fire until they're all in nicely arranged lines......then they're ridden down by cavalry while they're faffing around. In spite of those problems however, this really is a first rate game. The battles are very fun, particularly with the blood dlc, and can be pretty brutal. The gameplay improvements are good, with the exception of navies which are still a bit rubbish. Campaign map gameplay is challenging and tactical and definately fun. Overall, a good game worth buying, though definately not the best Total war. Or the second best. Buy it, but make sure to pick up Fall of the Samurai because that's excellent. Avoid rise of the samurai, that's just pointless… Expand
  78. addie_ho
    Jun 16, 2012
    10
    In subjective way, I am very interested in samurai and japan history. Regardless of my interests, this game is awesome. What I see is not only about game, it's also about history. Moreover, it makes you feel like you are really running a country or a military clan.
  79. drissht
    Jun 12, 2012
    10
    The game is extremely good on the campaign and could easily become glued to it for hours. The graphics aren't the best I have seen but then again I am playing on a 42" TV, may I add HD for that matter :P

    The only downfall to Shogun 2 is that the online is extremely poor!! The characters are not evenly matched. I had my general with no casualties taken out by Yari Ki, even though the Yari    The game is extremely good on the campaign and could easily become glued to it for hours. The graphics aren't the best I have seen but then again I am playing on a 42" TV, may I add HD for that matter :P

    The only downfall to Shogun 2 is that the online is extremely poor!! The characters are not evenly matched. I had my general with no casualties taken out by Yari Ki, even though the Yari Ki have sustained casualties before battle, I find this extremely stupid as this is like top notch spear men getting wiped out by peasants!! If you want good online play stick to Napoleon Total war (I haven't played Shogun 1), but for a kick ass campaign stick with Shogun 2.

    Another thing I didn't like about Shogun 2 is that melee infantry are pretty useless online (I have won with melee but was extremely hard), it's all about the line infantry just like Napoleon.

    My verdict get Shogun 2 for campaign and Napoleon for online.    … Expand
  80. BeatHour
    Jun 11, 2012
    9
    Brilliant atmosphere, immersing you in Japanese culture. Great and varied gameplay, lots of units, upgrades, and government management.

    The online play, though, can be dodgy: with people farming their avatar level by rigging siege matches (for example, they will take nothing but gunmen on a multi-tiered castle and take infantry moral reducing abilities).
  81. jeffro45
    Jun 10, 2012
    8
    brilliant game,keeps you hooked for hours,tick drop in on campaign for other players to drop in as opposition in your battles, waiting for new pc before going live so i can play at max settings do not want to upset pros with slow computer loading & connection once i have im sure my score will go closer to 10
  82. jteplitz
    May 30, 2012
    9
    Excellent game. The blend of turn based and real time strategy is incredibly addictive. The battles are extremely fun, and the AI is well thought out. Multiplayer is fun too, but really just for playing with friends because the balancing in online match play doesn't really work.

    Would be worthy of a 10, but it's got a few annoying bugs.
  83. TIZ
    May 18, 2012
    10
    Amazing game overall. Graphics best to date DX10 or 11, Gameplay slow but that's the fun of it, Story elements are like most strategy games good and satisfying when completing. Lots of new and extra features, amazing 3D rotatable map, actual night time fighting and amazing fight animations. This game deserves nothing less than a 10/10
  84. RangerGxi
    May 10, 2012
    9
    This game is the best Total war game to date. This Total war game does not have the best campaign to date but I can't explain why. The map has stunning visuals and a large variety of factions, maybe Im not as interested in Japan's history as I am in Napoleonic history. The actual battles are the what make the game. Shogun 2 has removed all of the problems of all the other total war games.This game is the best Total war game to date. This Total war game does not have the best campaign to date but I can't explain why. The map has stunning visuals and a large variety of factions, maybe Im not as interested in Japan's history as I am in Napoleonic history. The actual battles are the what make the game. Shogun 2 has removed all of the problems of all the other total war games. The game rewards attacking over defending(Crippling noob campers in multiplayer) by adding Keypoints in the centre of the map which give bonuses to the player that captures them. If a player captures all of the keypoints a counter begins which stops campers completely. This encourages players to rush for the centre, pretty much throwing all idea's of corner camping into the garbage. The sieges are just epic. Seiges have been limited to 20 minutes and attackers have been given more money to spend allowing the defenders to attack quickly instead of bombarding castles for an hour. Graphics are 5/5, Campaign 2.5/5 and gameplay is 4.5/5.

    Also get Fall of the Samurai.    … Expand
  85. Tridus
    Apr 8, 2012
    8
    Fun game. The tactical side of it is great. I tend to autoresolve a lot, but there's also RTS stuff for those who like it. Multiplayer is really fun when it works (I play in co-op games), but I had a problem with turns getting stuck and had to get my friend to send me his autosave file before we could continue. Worked fine after that. This far after release that kind of quality issueFun game. The tactical side of it is great. I tend to autoresolve a lot, but there's also RTS stuff for those who like it. Multiplayer is really fun when it works (I play in co-op games), but I had a problem with turns getting stuck and had to get my friend to send me his autosave file before we could continue. Worked fine after that. This far after release that kind of quality issue really isn't acceptable, and I'm docking points for it.… Expand
  86. FanthCcP
    Mar 18, 2012
    10
    Total War series game is the best of the best strategy game in human history,not one of ! I love Total War more than anything!Been playing since release, what can i say...i havnt slept...its pretty awesome, best total was since medieval 2! Looks amazing even tho theres no dx11 untill they patch it, then it'll be a 11/10!
  87. Insomnium0212
    Mar 13, 2012
    10
    The best total war game as of yet. The Japanese settings sucks you right in. Unlike empire total war the game offers a more rounded set of units. There are less units but the game is better for it. Shogun also brings something new to the table in the form of an online avatar which you can customize and level up. Once you level up you can select different retainers and skills which haveThe best total war game as of yet. The Japanese settings sucks you right in. Unlike empire total war the game offers a more rounded set of units. There are less units but the game is better for it. Shogun also brings something new to the table in the form of an online avatar which you can customize and level up. Once you level up you can select different retainers and skills which have effects in the online battles you play. All in all:

    Sound: 10
    Gameplay: 10
    Graphics: 10 (You do need a beast of a PC to appreciate the full scope though)    … Expand
  88. jacobwt226
    Mar 6, 2012
    9
    I use it as a benchmark when I put new hardware in my PC, I play it anyways because it is fun. No reason why not to buy, plus they are coming out with a new game (DLC if you own this one) that allows Rifles to battle with samurai.
  89. GamerLegend
    Feb 11, 2012
    10
    My first total war game was Empire Total War a while back. Ever since I got it I became hooked on the series. Iv'e seen a lot of **** reviews for this same so far, and I have to strongly disagree with what they are saying. This is by far the best total war game that has come out yet. The graphics are amazing and pretty much look real with light bloom from a distance. The newMy first total war game was Empire Total War a while back. Ever since I got it I became hooked on the series. Iv'e seen a lot of **** reviews for this same so far, and I have to strongly disagree with what they are saying. This is by far the best total war game that has come out yet. The graphics are amazing and pretty much look real with light bloom from a distance. The new multi-player concept of making your own clan is genius and it is a game you will always go back to. I would recommend this to any strategy gamer because of its challenging concepts and high replay value. I do not recommend it for someone just starting to play total war or general strategy due to its challenging gameplay.… Expand
  90. SJ_pl
    Jan 22, 2012
    8
    As a complicated strategy it may be good. Maybe the best in 2011. But I'm a regular player that digests all genres and this game didn't appealed to me. It was too difficult, too complicated and did not offer as much fun as I expected it to give me. Maybe with it's developer on my back I would have understood it better. I regret that such a good game doesn't offer much for interested butAs a complicated strategy it may be good. Maybe the best in 2011. But I'm a regular player that digests all genres and this game didn't appealed to me. It was too difficult, too complicated and did not offer as much fun as I expected it to give me. Maybe with it's developer on my back I would have understood it better. I regret that such a good game doesn't offer much for interested but not so strategy-oriented players...… Expand
  91. gyrate
    Dec 31, 2011
    10
    This is a great game. It's possibly the best strategy game ever made. It runs smoothly even on older hardware. I can't say enough good things about it.
  92. Pier
    Dec 26, 2011
    9
    This is simply the best total war game ever. I've played most of the games from the series and Shogun 2 is a dream come true, that goes back to the original root, but with all the refinements of the last decade. If you are into deep strategy and historic accuracy you can't miss it.
  93. R_O360
    Dec 26, 2011
    8
    As veteran of the entire Total War series I can say without a doubt that Shogun 2 is the best installment when it comes to multiplayer. What they did with Shogun 2 in regards to the multiplayer aspect is phenomenal, the unit/avatar progression and leveling system combined with the territory conquest and clan systems is addicting. As for the singleplayer? Well, it is very dumbed down andAs veteran of the entire Total War series I can say without a doubt that Shogun 2 is the best installment when it comes to multiplayer. What they did with Shogun 2 in regards to the multiplayer aspect is phenomenal, the unit/avatar progression and leveling system combined with the territory conquest and clan systems is addicting. As for the singleplayer? Well, it is very dumbed down and simplified and I think fans of the older Total War games who enjoyed the economy micromanagment aspect will be dissapointed. Great game overall.… Expand
  94. Ztride
    Dec 21, 2011
    8
    A great game, with a long singleplayer campaign and detailed battles. Personally I think it is very unbalanced however, since samurai - who are trained from birth into accepting death - still flee easily when outnumbered. I really do not like the way the morale system is balanced, or the pathfinding for units either, for that matter. Also, archers and cavalry are very weak and navalA great game, with a long singleplayer campaign and detailed battles. Personally I think it is very unbalanced however, since samurai - who are trained from birth into accepting death - still flee easily when outnumbered. I really do not like the way the morale system is balanced, or the pathfinding for units either, for that matter. Also, archers and cavalry are very weak and naval battles are slow as hell. As a whole the game isn't that bad though.… Expand
  95. BillGR17
    Dec 18, 2011
    10
    The firs total war i played was shogun when i saw shogun 2 i though plz tell me they didnt make it suck like napoleon and empire ! and now that i have it i must say its a hell of a game ! best RTS so far ! i didnt believe its better than rome total war too coz i was huge fan or rome as i was with the first shogun
    now u have rpg elements and finally the multiplayer is worth playing it ! its    The firs total war i played was shogun when i saw shogun 2 i though plz tell me they didnt make it suck like napoleon and empire ! and now that i have it i must say its a hell of a game ! best RTS so far ! i didnt believe its better than rome total war too coz i was huge fan or rome as i was with the first shogun
    now u have rpg elements and finally the multiplayer is worth playing it ! its not a custom battle ! u can play campaign mode online and if u are playing singleplayer u give the battle from the system to one radom player online :D it has so much stuff and now the melee army is fighting better but still some times they stay there do nothing(not all the army just one or two ) the only bad think is that ... will they make another one as good as this?    … Expand
  96. DrCola
    Nov 10, 2011
    9
    I would give this an 8.7 and for one reason only, they are starting to release DLC's that unlock content that was previously free if you just modified one notepad document, im afraid that the people who make total war games are starting to milk it for what its got rather than focusing on one masterpiece, on the bright side the multiplayer is lightyears ahead of napoleon total war, TheI would give this an 8.7 and for one reason only, they are starting to release DLC's that unlock content that was previously free if you just modified one notepad document, im afraid that the people who make total war games are starting to milk it for what its got rather than focusing on one masterpiece, on the bright side the multiplayer is lightyears ahead of napoleon total war, The strategys that you take on ARE actually specific to the faction you decide to play as, so when sombody on metacritic says "dont ever chose this faction because they have better boats" thats simply not true, you use the boat advantage to its fullest extent by blockading enemy ports and therefore giving you more income, or if you chose to get better archers you play more defensively, or vica versa with other factions. Im happy that they made a few modifications to just about everything and refined everything to a good point, for example : ship battles used to be about clicking at the right time in a starcraft like manner, but now its much more about positioning of your ships, there is now a food factor so you cant just build a billion castles. The difficulty is finally what it should be. All the other total war games I played were so easy its not even funny (even on hardest difficulty) with one exception, western roman empire in rome total war barbarian invasion on the hardest difficulty, but thats about rome total war, all in all shogun 2 total war has stunning visuals (only if your computer is really really awsome, I was sad when I found out I could not play in DX11, because seriously, the DX11 graphics are WAY better than the DX9 graphics) More strategy, more thinking, not as time consuming as empire total war and not as complicated (which i can understand why they did that) There are also important choices you can make that will affect your empire. If the game has a problem, its the DLC and how once you have claimed the shogunate and won the game its very boring because the battles all feel the exact same.… Expand
  97. Gladio77
    Nov 8, 2011
    9
    Hoorah! , Indeed the gameplay in general has not changed much in the last ten years. But the graphics and this game racked me up for 200 hours. Value for money. Game Graphics are very good and its something a developer can be proud of. Buy it .
  98. lmg
    Oct 18, 2011
    8
    i m not a big fan of total war series. still i played the solo player for many days. i think although the different factions play a bit different, when it comes to strategy all has the same after some time. its always bigger army vs small army. i think the earlier versions of total war were more fun than this one.
  99. Nexusepona
    Oct 17, 2011
    10
    It brings the fun you are looking for when you buy any of the Total War series, and it does it with style. Not the pinnacle of the series, I would say that Rome and even Medieval 2 were better, but still worth your money. It takes time to finish the single player campaign, re-playable, and the multi-player part is fun too. If you are a TW fun, this is a must for you!
  100. JuJu
    Oct 9, 2011
    10
    This is one of the greatest games ever ! Joining RTS with turn strategy is best idea, and it is working perfectly. I really like this world of samurais, ninjas etc etc. Programmers did not make this game so complicated but nicely and user friendly. I recommend to play S2 with all my hart ! Rgrds
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Awards & Rankings

6
#6 Best PC Game of 2011
21
#21 Most Discussed PC Game of 2011
10
#10 Most Shared PC Game of 2011

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 62 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 62 out of 62
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 62
  3. Negative: 0 out of 62
  1. Game Over Online
    Jul 14, 2011
    89
    There is a je ne sais quoi elegance on how the game is presented and how well put together the game as an entire corpus is. Although it's still mired by some version 1.0 bugs, Shogun is highly playable and deserves a place on any Total War fan's hard drive.
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  2. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    May 22, 2011
    90
    Beautiful, complex and varied historical strategy which offers hours of fun in single player and multiplayer modes. [Issue#203]
  3. Computer Games Online RO
    May 1, 2011
    93
    The mix of turn based strategy (with economical, political and diplomatic ramifications) and real time battles is still wonderful, but the need to balance timing and aggression is more important than ever. Aggressive players will feel a little cheated, while diplomats will hate Realm Divide stage. Still, Total War was always about realism and the AI's scripted actions make logical and historical sense.
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