Destiny of an Emperor (USA)

Destiny of an Emperor is a classic turn-based role-playing game (RPG) for the NES, set against the turbulent backdrop of China's Three Kingdoms period. Players assume the role of Liu Bei, beginning their journey as a humble straw mat weaver, to build an army, recruit famous generals, and ultimately unify the country.

A unique aspect of the game is its general recruitment system. You can persuade or defeat enemy generals to have them join your ranks. Each general possesses distinct stats and skills, influencing their effectiveness in combat. Managing your party, which can consist of up to 5 main generals and 5 reserve generals, is a key strategic element.

The combat system is turn-based, where players issue commands to each character in their party. Options include physical attacks, using magic (referred to as "tactics"), or utilizing items. "Tactics" can inflict area-of-effect damage, heal, or boost stats. Notably, the game features a "Fuwa" (fame) system that influences your ability to recruit new generals.

The game features a vast world map to explore, with numerous towns, villages, and dungeons. In towns, you can purchase equipment, recover health, and gather information from NPCs. Leveling up and equipping new weapons and armor are crucial for overcoming increasingly difficult challenges. Managing food supplies is also a vital element, as it's consumed with every step on the world map and during battles.

The ultimate goal of Destiny of an Emperor is to defeat all opposing warlords, particularly Cao Cao and Sun Quan, to fulfill Liu Bei's destiny of unifying ancient China.