Also unlike previous Dynasty Warriors outings, you play as one of three original new characters: Phoenix, Dragon, or Chimera. Your goal as one these three individuals is to take control of as much of China as possible by clearing out enemies in various regions of the country. The cast from DW titles past isn't directly playable - Instead they show up as sub-characters on cards you can collect and add to your "battle deck." You can use these characters to defend your bases from attacks while you're busy chop-chopping away at the rampaging enemy hordes elsewhere in China.
The Battle Deck plays a much bigger role than just defense, however. Cards you put in your deck can add certain effects to your Obstacle Roulette, a new system used to create impediments to your opponent's progress and give you the upper hand. You can also equip cards to gain boosts to life, strength, and other vital stats. Cards level up with use, so the more you deploy them in combat, the stronger they become.
Dynasty Warriors DS holds a lot of promise. The portable format is perfect for the sort of short-burst hack-n-slash action the series exemplifies, and the new elements introduced to this edition look like it may just give this series the kick in the pants it so desperately needs to really shine. We'll have the full review once the game ships this July.
