We’ve got to hand it to Koei: they sure know how to get the most out their franchises. In a most recent case in point, first came Dynasty Warriors 5, then its xtreeeeeeme expansion, and now things get a little tactical with today’s release of DW5 Empires.

And tactical you will get, with players having a greater authority over Government, Product Development, Diplomacy and Battle Tactics thanks to the 25 added policies, making for an ample 75 in all. Conquering Ancient China is no easy task, but now with direct orders over your officers (individually and as a whole), the ability to recruit captives, and strategic army control (y’know, “Stay on defense,” “Go attack,” “Don’t die,” that kind of thing), those 25 in-country regions will be united in no time. See how friendly that sounds?

If it’s replayability you want, Empires is all over it, with 4 unlockable scenarios, two-player co-op and a wealth of attainable items just a hack and a slash away. Why, there’s even a detailed in-game Encyclopedia, so you can learn alllll about the history of Ancient China and then go impress the pants off of that know-it-all teacher of yours. That'll show 'em!

Dynasty Warriors 5 Empires is already getting its invasion on all up in retail. For $29.99, it’s yours.