Ishin no Arashi is a Japanese Koei Famicom strategic wargame around the Meiji restoration with samurai clans negotiating and fighting to modernize 19th century Japan. The representation offers hexagonal Japan map, political management and tactical combat in a Koei historical wargame formula. Without western release, curiosity for historical Famicom strategy fans in the 8 bit Koei production vein.
Your verdict
Category
Turn-Based Strategy1 player12+
Description
Turn-based strategy by Koei set against the upheavals of the Meiji Restoration, with clan management and battles. Published by Koei, released in 1988 in Japan. Single-player. Famicom only.
Ishin no Arashi review
3/5
Art direction
★★★★★
"Polished"
3/5
Music
★★★★★
"Memorable"
2/5
Story
★★★★★
"Classic"
Gameplay
"Solid"
Fun
"Mild"
Addictiveness
"Engaging"
Difficulty
"Balanced"
Lifespan
"Massive"
Recreating the upheavals of the Meiji era clan by clan sets up a game that stretches across long sessions. Between patient domain management, diplomacy and turn-based battles, every decision shapes what follows and invites replays to do better. That hallmark Koei blend of history and demand is why it's still credited with real strategic depth on the Famicom.
