Ishin no Arashi is a historical simulation game released for the NES in 1990 by Koei. Set during the volatile Bakumatsu period at the end of the Tokugawa shogunate, you step into the role of a historical figure like Sakamoto Ryoma or Saigo Takamori. Unlike Koei’s traditional military-focused titles, this game emphasizes ideological persuasion, requiring you to travel across 19th-century Japan, improve your personal stats, and engage in fierce debates to sway other feudal lords to your political faction.
How to Play
Your objective is to unite Japan under one of three ideologies: Pro-Shogunate, Anti-Shogunate, or opening the country to the West. Navigation relies on the D-pad to move through menus and map screens, with the A button to confirm selections and the B button to cancel. In the browser, the D-pad maps to the arrow keys, A and B map to Z and X, and Start maps to Enter.
Tips
- Before attempting to persuade powerful lords, build your character’s vitality, intelligence, strength, and charisma by studying with scholars and training at local dojos.
- Time passes as you travel and take actions. Plan your routes carefully, as major historical events will continue to unfold based on the calendar whether you are present or not.
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