The Three Kingdoms period of Chinese history has always been a rich tapestry for storytelling, whether through the legendary tales of valor and strategy or the scholarly efforts to distinguish fact from fiction. This era has been a popular choice for interactive media, and Koei Tecmo, a developer well-versed in this historical setting, is set to expand their acclaimed series with the release of Three Kingdoms Heroes.
For enthusiasts of the franchise, the game's familiar art style and grandiose narrative will feel like a homecoming. However, Three Kingdoms Heroes could also serve as an excellent entry point for newcomers. This title introduces a turn-based board game inspired by the classic strategy games of chess and shogi. Players will engage in tactical battles, utilizing a diverse array of abilities and strategies embodied by iconic figures from the Three Kingdoms era.
Scheduled for release on January 25th next year, the most compelling aspect of Three Kingdoms Heroes isn't its visual or auditory elements, but the innovative GARYU AI system. Developed by HEROZ, the same team behind the formidable shogi AI dlshogi, GARYU promises to deliver a challenging and adaptive opponent. This AI has previously dominated the World Shogi Championships for two consecutive years, showcasing its prowess by outsmarting top grandmasters in the sport.
While the effectiveness of AI in gaming, reminiscent of the controversial chess "grandmaster" Deep Blue, can be debated, the GARYU system stands out as a significant selling point for Three Kingdoms Heroes. The prospect of engaging in strategic combat against an AI that mirrors the cunning and adaptability of the era's renowned military leaders is undeniably enticing. This feature alone could redefine the gaming experience for fans of strategy and historical simulations.
The only way to win is not to play
