River City Saga: Three Kingdoms Next is an action-packed sequel that continues the tale of the legendary Three Kingdoms, following the aftermath of the Battle of Red Cliffs. Set in ancient China, this game blends slapstick comedy with classic beat ‘em up mechanics. 

More than 100 characters from the series come together in River City Saga: Three Kingdoms Next to deliver immersive action. With these characters, players can dive into a storyline filled with unexpected twists and turns. Whether playing solo or teaming up with a friend in online co-op mode, the game offers engaging battles and surprises.

Engaging storyline with twists

River City Saga: Three Kingdoms Next is easy to pick up, featuring classic beat ‘em up mechanics that are simple for fans of the genre. Players can execute attacks like punches and kicks, and even throw enemies in classic brawler style. With the skill tree mechanic, earning points allows you to unlock new moves and customize your character’s build, giving you an edge in tougher battles.

In this sequel, Kunio's motorcycle, Red Hare, plays a key role by enabling faster travel through stages, allowing players to cover ground more efficiently. Beyond speed, Red Hare can now be used as a weapon to run down enemies simply by driving through them. Players can also customize its parts, unlocking stylish upgrades. Additionally, under certain conditions, Red Hare can evolve into new, more powerful forms.

Still present in this sequel are the Fire Tactics and Water Tactics from the original River City Saga: Three Kingdoms. A new addition is the ability to summon past generals as allies, offering a strategic advantage in battles. However, aside from the Red Hare mechanic and familiar tactics, there aren’t many new features introduced. Some players might also find the platforming sections somewhat finicky, potentially leading to frustration.

A nostalgic yet fresh experience

River City Saga: Three Kingdoms Next successfully combines nostalgia and innovative gameplay, making it a worthy sequel in the series. Its engaging storyline and beloved characters provide an entertaining experience, whether playing solo or with a friend. While some aspects, like platforming, might frustrate players, the core mechanics and fun co-op elements ensure this title remains enjoyable for beat ‘em up fans.