Published on October 22, 2022
Updated on July 20, 2023

30 Best PlayStation 3 Hack and Slash Games

To many gamers, the seventh generation of consoles was the best era for the hack-and-slash genre. The period saw the release of some of the best titles to push the genre beyond the button-mashing boundaries. Titles like Bayonetta, Ninja Gaiden Sigma and Devil May Cry 4, did not only perfect the formula but also catered to casuals and hardcore gamers alike.

A long while after its discontinuation, the PlayStation 3 ‘s library of hack and slash remains a worthy selection to slice your katana through. Similar to the PlayStation 2, there are enough gems here worthy of a playthrough. If you’re a fan, then you’ve come to the right place for the best games the genre had to offer.

Table of Contents

God of War III


2010
About
Release Date
March 16, 2010
Developer
Santa Monica Studio
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Franchise
God of War
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concept
Mythology
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2010-03-16
2010-03-18
2010-03-19
2010-03-25
2010-04-17

God of War III is an icon in the genre, and one of the best experiences to land on the system. Amongst PlayStation gamers, God of War three was the pinnacle of the series when it launched, and an epic conclusion to the revengeful quest of Kratos.

As Kratos, you will unleash your wrath upon the Gods of Olympus for betraying you. Armed with the Blades of Chaos, players break their way through endless action, while slicing, smashing and tearing apart anything that stands in their way. Even after a decade of its initial release, God of War III does hold up well against juggernauts like Devil May Cry 5.

Bayonetta


2009 ベヨネッタ (Beyonetta)
About
Release Date
October 29, 2009
Developer
PlatinumGames
Publisher
SEGA
Franchise
Bayonetta
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concept
Fantasy
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2009-10-29
2010-01-05
2010-01-07
2010-01-08

Bayonetta is a gorgeous hack and slash title, featuring an elegant lady ready to slap the life out of her enemies. Directed by Hideki Kamiya, the game puts you on the heels of the titular character, Bayonetta. A powerful witch in black capable of shapeshifting and summoning various creatures thanks to her dark powers.

Unlike other hack-and-slash titles you’ve played before, Bayonetta is in a league of its own. Blending beat’em up with hack-and-slash elements, the developers at PlatinumGames managed to pull off pretty much a peerless experience. The only tragedy to happen to this series is the sequels being exclusive to Nintendo consoles.

Devil May Cry: HD Collection


2012
About
Release Date
March 22, 2012
Developer
Capcom
Publisher
Capcom
Franchise
Devil May Cry
Genre
Hack & Slash
Players
Single Player
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2012-03-22
2012-03-28

Devil May Cry: HD Collection comes packed with three games from the bygone era of the PlayStation 2; the original game, the sequel and the third game. No matter where you are, it’s never too late to dive into this series. And while the original and especially the second game may show their age, managing to ignore these flaws will surely grant you an amazing time.

The genre owes it to the third instalment in the series for revolutionizing the formula. Similar to the situation with Resident Evil 4, Devil May Cry 3 introduced a new concept to the table; style. After the release of Devil May Cry 2, many speculated at the time that the series is dead. However, the inclusion of a style-switching mechanic introduced a whole new way to play the game. You owe it to yourself to try Devil May Cry 3 at least once in your lifetime. Chances are, you’ll end up replaying the game more than twice.

Devil May Cry 4


2008 デビル メイ クライ4 (Debiru Mei Kurai Fō)
About
Release Date
January 31, 2008
Developer
Capcom
Publisher
Capcom
Franchise
Devil May Cry
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concept
Fantasy
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2008-01-31
2008-02-05
2008-02-07
2008-02-08

Devil May Cry 4 is a direct follow-up to Devil May Cry 3, and an attempt to improve upon its predecessor. Featuring Dante as the main protagonist, the game introduces a new Devil Hunter named Nero. It goes without saying that Devil May Cry 4 is an absolute blast from the past and one that’s nothing short but amazing.

Apart from Dante’s style-switching mechanic, Nero possesses a powerful mystical arm named the Devil Bringer. The arm is a key part of Nero’s style, providing him with useful abilities in action. Nero can grab enemies and slam them to the ground, pull enemies to him and more. Devil May Cry 4 style is akin to its predecessor as both emphasize style above all else.

God of War Collection®


2009
About
Release Date
November 17, 2009
Developer
Bluepoint Games
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Franchise
God of War
Genre
Hack & Slash
Graphics
3D
Perspective
Third-Person
Concept
Mythology
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2009-11-17
2009-11-27
2010-03-18
2010-04-29
2010-04-30

The God of War Collection includes two fantastic hack-and-slash games from the PlayStation 2 era. This is undoubtedly the finest way to get two hits in one package, especially now that they’ve been properly remastered for the PS3.

Explore an epic adventure with Kratos as he slays and bashes his adversaries with savage fury. Fight colossal foes and knock them down, and experience a sequence of riddles you’ll never forget. We don’t have much to say about this series other than the fact that the God of War collection is one of the greatest games on the PS3.

God of War: Origins Collection®


2011
About
Release Date
September 13, 2011
Developer
Ready at Dawn
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Franchise
God of War
Genre
Hack & Slash
Graphics
3D
Perspective
Third-Person
Concept
Mythology
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2011-09-13
2011-09-16
2011-10-06

The God of War Origins Collection comprises another two fantastic hack-and-slash games, but this time they’re from the PSP era. Similar to the previous collection, this is the finest way to experience two classics in one package.

This collection covers the events that lead to Kratos’ rage against the gods, as well as his gradual transformation from a valiant warrior to a straight-up killing machine. If you want more God of War on the PS3, you should definitely acquire this compilation.

Ninja Gaiden Sigma / Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2


2007 / 2009
About
Release Date
June 14, 2007
Initial Release: March 02, 2004
Developer
Team Ninja
Publisher
Xbox Game Studios
Franchise
Ninja Gaiden
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concept
Ninja
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2007-06-14
2007-07-03
2007-07-06
2007-07-13
About
Release Date
September 29, 2009
Initial Release: June 03, 2008
Developer
Team Ninja
Publisher
Xbox Game Studios
Franchise
Ninja Gaiden
Genre
Hack & Slash
Perspective
Third-Person
Concept
Ninja
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2009-09-29
2009-10-01
2009-10-02
2009-10-08
2009-10-26

Ninja Gaiden Sigma and its sequels are remastered versions of the originals and a fine example of a game done right. As the legendary dragon ninja Ryu Hayabusa, you must liberate the world from the terror of the demons that roam the earth. Equipped with your dragon sword, you’ll slice anyone who’s conspiring with the demons to wreak havoc on earth.

The reboot release of Ninja Gaiden on the original Xbox was a technical marvel. Shocking the world with a perfectly made concept at the time, Team Ninja attempted to improve upon the original via the introduction of several new ideas. Some of these are; new weapons, fast-paced gameplay, improved graphics and more. While playing Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, keep an eye out on the badass chart because chances are, it will be over 9000.

No More Heroes: Heroes' Paradise


2010 Enhanced Port ノーモア★ヒーローズ 英雄たちの楽園 (Nō Moa Hīrōzu Eiyūtachi no Rakuen) ノーモア★ヒーローズ 英雄たちの楽園 (Nō Moa Hīrōzu Eiyūtachi no Rakuen)
About
Release Date
April 15, 2010
Initial Release: December 06, 2007
Developer
Grasshopper Manufacture
Publisher
Marvelous
Franchise
No More Heroes
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concepts
Anime, Gore
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2010-04-15
2010-04-16
2011-05-19
2011-05-20
2011-08-16

No More Heroes: Heroes’ Paradise is an enhanced port of the original Wii release that improves upon the graphics with the cost of removing the cel-shaded visuals. However, thankfully, the essence of the original is still alive and well.

Players take on the role of the otaku Travis Touchdown in his quest to become the number one assassin. The reward that’s waiting for him is probably getting laid with Sylvia, but will he? Thanks to its addictive-yet-simple combat system, No More Heroes is a blast from the past. Featuring a mixture of beat’em up and hack and slash along with tons of mini-games for you to experience, is there a reason for you not to play it?

While you’re here, why don’t you check the best Suda 51 games ever made?

Drakengard 3


2013 ドラッグオンドラグーン3 (Drag-On Dragoon 3)
About
Release Date
December 19, 2013
Developer
Access Games
Publisher
Square Enix
Franchise
Drakengard
Genre
JRPG
Concept
Fantasy
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2013-12-19
2014-01-24
2014-05-20
2014-05-21

Drakengard 3 is the third instalment in the Drakengard series and acts as a prequel although set in a timeline unrelated to the events of the franchise. In this hack and slash title, players take on the role of a white-haired girl known as Zero. In her pursuit to take down her five sisters, she ends up teaming up with a mythical dragon named Mikhail. The reason behind this genocide remains unclear until it’s uncovered by the player.

Drakengard 3’s gameplay style can be akin to Koei Tecmo’s selection of Musou games. You’ll be mopping the floor with oodles of enemies on screen using different weapons; Knife, spear, combat bracers and even chakrams. Featuring elements from the role-playing genre, Zero can level up her stats and weapons, growing much stronger in the face of her foes. Apart from the on-foot gameplay, the game includes rail-shooter-style missions in which players control the dragon, Mikhail. The goal is simple; shoot anything you deem a threat.

Warriors Orochi 3


2011 無双OROCHI 2 (Musō Orochi Tsū)
About
Release Date
December 22, 2011
Developer
Omega Force
Publisher
Koei Tecmo
Franchise
Dynasty Warriors
Genre
Musou
Perspective
Third-Person
Concepts
Fantasy, Martial Arts, Samurai
Players
Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2011-12-22
2011-12-27
2012-04-06

Warriors Orochi 3 is yet another instalment in the critically acclaimed franchise by Koei Tecmo. Featuring up to 145 warriors to choose from, the game follows the story of several characters involved in a battlefield waged by several legions.

As you would expect from a Musou title, the premise is simple, kill anything that moves. The gameplay can get repetitive quickly if you’re not a fan of Musou games. So if you’re someone who doesn’t enjoy mopping enemies like a lawnmower, steer away from this one.

Dante's Inferno


2010
About
Release Date
February 04, 2010
Developer
Visceral Games
Publisher
Electronic Arts
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concept
Dark Fantasy
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2010-02-04
2010-02-05
2010-02-09
2010-02-18

Dante’s Inferno is a perfect depiction of hell, and a game many were waiting to see come to life. Upon its release, the game was frowned on because of the striking similarities to God of War at the time. However, one could argue that Dante’s Inferno can be described as the grotesque version of Santa Monica’s masterpiece.

The game’s plot sees you controlling a Templar knight from the crusade named Dante. Amid a battle, he ends up being stabbed, revealing the Grim Reaper in front of his eyes. Unable to accept death, he slaughters Death himself. Further events lead him to discover that his loved Beatrice was murdered and she’s sent to hell alongside Lucifer. Too angry to let go of love, Dante jumps to the nine circles of hell to save her.

Dante’s Inferno features the best depiction of hell so far. Full of bone-chilling scenes, a hair-raising atmosphere and grotesque creatures to slay your scythe through, Dante’s Inferno is a masterpiece. As you go down through hell, screams of the damned fill the place, making for an unforgettable experience.

X-Men Origins: Wolverine


2009
About
Release Date
April 29, 2009
Developer
Raven Software
Publisher
Activision
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concept
Superhero
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2009-04-29
2009-05-01

X-Men Wolverine: Origins is a movie-tie-in game based on the original film. Starring Wolverine, the game’s plot is an original take by Raven Software, taking influence from several major events in the X-Men Comic series.

Origins is an over-the-top hack-and-slash game that truly embodies the spirit of Wolverine. Taking inspiration from several hack-and-slash titles, Raven Software manages to deliver a fun and satisfying combat system. Imbued with intense violence and gore, the game does not shy away from pushing the boundaries of the superhero genre to deliver an extraordinary experience.

Killer is Dead


2013 キラー・イズ・デッド (Kirā Izu Deddo)
About
Release Date
August 01, 2013
Developer
Grasshopper Manufacture
Publisher
Deep Silver
Genre
Hack & Slash
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2013-08-01
2013-08-27
2013-08-30

Killer is Dead is another hack-and-slash game from the mind of Suda 51. The former is a much dark experience compared to Lollipop Chainsaw and No More Heroes, including a pretty complex story with pretty mild content and humour.

The game’s story puts you in the shoes of the professional executioner, Mondo Zappa. Armed with a cybernetic gun arm, and a sharp katana that can cut through-hardened steel, Mondo isn’t someone to joke with. The game’s unique cel-shading style and the addictive combo-building system make Killer is Dead worthy of being on the list. Add to that the epic boss battles and the amazing selection of soundtracks, and you have yourself pretty much what you’d call a blast.

Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II


2010
About
Release Date
October 26, 2010
Developer
Lucasfilm Games
Publisher
Lucasfilm Games
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concept
Sci-Fi
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2010-10-26
2010-10-27
2010-10-29

Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II is a direct follow-up to the original and another solid hack and slash as well. In this tale of revenge that takes place six months after the original, players take on the role of Starkiller, a mighty Jedi. After being betrayed by Darth Vader, Starkiller goes on a rampage against Darth and his allies.

In Force Unleashed, the fun is all about cutting, cutting and most importantly cutting anything that moves. With the use of your Jedi powers, you’re an unstoppable entity capable of obliterating almost anything. Amongst video games that make you feel like a badass, the former is one worth mentioning.

Enslaved: Odyssey to the West


2010
About
Release Date
October 05, 2010
Developer
Ninja Theory
Publisher
Bandai Namco
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concept
Sci-Fi
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
PS3 Releases
2010-10-05
2010-10-07
2010-10-08

Enslaved: Odyssey to the West is loosely based on the Journey to the West novel by Wu Cheng’en. Set in a vibrant world full of nature to explore, the game sees players take on the role of Monkey. After meeting up with a red-haired girl named, Trip, he ends up being forced to escort her home safely. As the game progresses, these two form a sort of bond as they survive the hardships of living in a dangerous world.

Taking inspiration not only from the novel but also from other works such as Ico and Life After People, Enslaved: Odyssey to the West is an underrated gem that is rarely talked about lately.

Lollipop Chainsaw


2012 ロリポップチェーンソー (Roripoppu Chēnsō)
About
Release Date
June 12, 2012
Developer
Grasshopper Manufacture
Publisher
Warner Bros Games
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concept
Zombie
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2012-06-12
2012-06-13
2012-06-14
2012-06-15

Lollipop Chainsaw represents Goichi Suda at his pinnacle. It is also a game to appreciate for having been made by two great writers: Goichi Suda and James Gunn. The game’s plot stars Juliet Starling, an energetic high school young blonde girl loaded with an adorable-yet-lethal chainsaw. On her birthday, the school she attends to has been invaded by an army of zombies unexpectedly. It’s up to her to save the day and f** them up.

As Juliet, you slice and tear your way through zombies like a walk in the park. A nice touch to the game is the exploding colours when the player is striking zombies non-stop. Killing up to 4 zombies results in an instant short screen where the crowd cheers Julliet, and it is just fantastic. While the story can be short, the game offers tons of content worth a replay.

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance


2013 メタルギア ライジング リベンジェンス (Metaru Gia Raijingu Ribenjensu)
About
Release Date
February 19, 2013
Developer
PlatinumGames
Publisher
Konami Digital Entertainment
Franchise
Metal Gear
Genre
Hack & Slash
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2013-02-19
2013-02-21
2013-02-22

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance broke away from the stealth nature the series was renowned for and instead opted for a full-blown hack and slash experience. By introducing Raiden as the new main protagonist, Revengeance took a bold decision which cemented it as a peerless name in the genre. However, with Kojima gone from Konami, the fate of the game remains unknown.

The best thing about Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance is being able to cut almost anything that moves in slow-motion. Nothing comes down to the satisfaction of cutting a mecha robot to pieces while watching it crumble before you. Add to that the crazy ideas implemented by PlatinumGames and you know pretty much what I’m talking about.

Prince of Persia


2008
About
Release Date
December 02, 2008
Developer
Ubisoft Montreal
Publisher
Ubisoft
Franchise
Prince of Persia
Genre
Hack & Slash
Graphics
3D
Perspective
Third-Person
Concept
Fantasy
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Canada
PS3 Releases
2008-12-02
2008-12-04
2008-12-05
2009-01-22

Prince of Persia is a reboot of the classic Prince of Persia series by Ubisoft. Despite being a reboot, this instalment doesn’t fail to capture the essence of the series. While it’s obvious the reboot brought drastic changes to the gameplay, the game will surely please hack-and-slash aficionados and fans of the series.

Taking place in an alternate timeline, players take on the role of Prince (a thief this time). While searching for his donkey, Farrah, he ends up stumbling into a forbidden land. Events quickly unfold when Prince encounters Elika, and his encounter with the danger that is the evil God of darkness, Ahriman.

Darksiders / Darksiders II


2010 / 2012
About
Release Date
January 05, 2010
Developer
Vigil Games
Publisher
THQ
Franchise
Darksiders
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concept
Fantasy
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2010-01-05
2010-01-06
2010-01-07
2010-01-08
2010-03-18
About
Release Date
August 14, 2012
Developer
Vigil Games
Publisher
THQ
Franchise
Darksiders
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concept
Fantasy
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2012-08-14
2012-08-16
2012-08-21
2012-11-29

Darksiders is an incredible hack-and-slash series originally developed by the now-defunct Vigil Games. Coated with platforming elements, enjoyable puzzles for you to solve, and an array of weapons, as well as, an RPG system, Darksiders is a worthy contender in the genre.

The first game sees you roaming the now-destroyed earth as the horseman, War. As one of the best protagonists in video gaming, you’re tasked with finding out who caused the ruin of planet earth. The second game takes you in the role of yet another horseman, Death. Like his brother, he is tasked with destroying anyone who’s conspiring to break the balance between worlds.

The games were heavily compared to Nintendo’s Legend of Zelda and God of War upon their release. But the truth is, Darksiders manages to pull itself from the clone arena. And to successfully deliver a fantastic experience.

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow


2010 キャッスルヴァニア ロード オブ シャドウ (Kyassuruvania Rōdo obu Shadō)
About
Release Date
October 04, 2010
Developer
Mercury Steam
Publisher
Konami
Franchise
Castlevania
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concept
Dark Fantasy
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Spain
PS3 Releases
2010-10-05
2010-10-07
2010-10-08
2010-10-19
2010-12-16

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow is a reboot instalment in the critically acclaimed Castlevania franchise from Konami. The reboot took an entirely different approach, doing away with the Metroidvania emphasis and instead focusing on a linear hack-and-slash experience. Die-hard fans of the series were pretty upset with this direction at the time, however, one has to admire that this reboot instalment made the series much more accessible.

Players take on the role of Gabriel Belmont in a quest to execute a cult known as the Lords of Shadow. Amidst accomplishing his task, he will also seek a way to resurrect his passed-away wife.  Unlike the previous instalment in the series, Lords of Shadow is a complete overhaul, with an emphasis on vibrant nature, over-the-top action and cinema-like storytelling.

Genji™: Days of the Blade


2006 GENJI -神威奏乱- (Genji: Kamui Sōran)
About
Release Date
November 11, 2006
Developer
Game Republic
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concept
Samurai
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2006-11-11
2006-11-14
2007-03-23
2007-06-16

Genji: Days of the Blade’s gameplay is often compared to the likes of Onimusha, and Devil May Cry, but that’s just on the surface. Deep within its core mechanic, Genji manages to stand out from the hordes, and pull off what many may consider a unique gameplay mechanic system.

The game’s plot sees you controlling two interconnected warriors; Minamoto no Yoshitsune and Musashibo Benkei. Both differ from one another in several aspects, however, each of them follows the same story and possesses a unique mechanic. And that is the Amahagane. The mentioned mechanic is a crucial aspect and a key to defeating tough enemies. What the Amahagane does is lightly halt the enemy’s movement to land a fatal blow by pressing different button prompts on the screen.

Heavenly Sword


2007
About
Release Date
September 12, 2007
Developer
Ninja Theory
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concept
Fantasy
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
PS3 Releases
2007-09-12
2007-09-14
2007-09-19
2007-09-20
2007-10-19
2007-11-15

Heavenly Sword can be often mistaken for Kratos’ ex-wife. And why is that you may ask? because she’s also a badass. Developed by Ninja Theory as an exclusive launch title for the PS3, the story puts you in the epic story of Nariko. In this tale of revenge, you’ll embark on a quest for revenge against the invading King Bohan. With a short temper, the red-haired heroine is ready to slaughter an army of soldiers with her sword.

The gameplay is pretty similar to other hack-and-slash games in the genre, with Nariko capable of executing combos using different fighting stances; Speed, Power and Range. These stances are part of Nariko’s unique fighting style, and they play a significant role in the game.

With the rise of Sony exclusives coming to PC, Heavenly Sword is begging for a remaster. Whoever owns the rights to this game still should remaster it for PC and the PS5.

Afro Samurai


2009
About
Release Date
January 27, 2009
Developer
Surge
Publisher
Bandai Namco
Genre
Hack & Slash
Graphics
3D
Perspective
Third-Person
Concept
Anime
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2009-01-27
2009-03-27
2009-04-02

Afro Samurai is a dedicated attempt by the developers to emulate Takashi Okazaki’s manga of the same name. And despite its flaws from its short length to the lack of a lock-on system, this is an awesome experience. The game’s plot is a tale of revenge, featuring a black afro samurai hunting down the person who killed his father.

Most of the game sees you hacking and slashing your way through waves of goons continuously. You’re a samurai with certain deadly moves under your sandals that can cut anyone in half, but what’s memorable about this title is its hip-hop music score and the unique vibes. With each swing you throw, you sync to the excellent music which plays a significant role in immersing the player.

If you’re looking for a similar game to Afro Samurai, you should definitely check out Samurai Champloo: Sidetracked. It’s got the same vibes.

Dynasty Warriors 7


2011
About
Release Date
March 10, 2011
Developer
Omega Force
Publisher
Koei Tecmo
Franchise
Dynasty Warriors
Genre
Musou
Perspective
Third-Person
Concept
Samurai
Players
Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2011-03-10
2011-03-29
2011-04-08
2011-04-14

Dynasty Warriors 7 is a Musou hack-and-slash game and the seventh instalment in the series. Looking back at its predecessors, this entry is a huge step in every possible way. Featuring a revamped system from the characters to the battle system, Dynasty Warriors 7 is a seamless Musou experience.

The number of enemies on-screen has doubled which made the experience crazier. With over 60 warriors to choose from, various characters from the previous instalments are present such as Lu Bu and Guan Ping.

If you’re not a fan of the Musou genre, and you don’t enjoy the button-mashing, you should veer far away from this one.

Conan


2007
About
Release Date
September 28, 2007
Developer
nStigate Games
Publisher
THQ
Genre
Hack & Slash
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United States
PS3 Releases
2007-09-28
2007-10-11
2007-10-23
2007-12-06

Conan: the Barbarian’s early video game adaptation was a humble start on the Atari-8-bit family computers back in 1984. And as years have passed, Conan enjoyed a handful of adaptations on various platforms. While many may regard Conan: The Dark Axe as the better story of our barbarian hero, the 2007 game isn’t a bad one at all.

As the barbarian hero, you sail through the high seas to recover your lost armour and execute the evil wizard. Unlike its predecessor, the 2007 adaptation’s gameplay is heavily similar to God of War. While it may not add anything new, its hack-and-slash gameplay is nothing short but fun. Conan is capable of taking enemies of any size, whether a human, monster, creature or anything, Conan knows no fear. Similar to God of War, the game does include QTE in which players have to press certain buttons to complete actions. Like finishing off an enemy, opening a door and more.

Conan 2007 is so far the last single-player hack and slash from the Conan franchise. We can only hope that with the success of Conan: Exiles, somebody out there will make another game from the genre.

Strider


2014
About
Release Date
February 18, 2014
Developer
Double Helix Games
Publisher
Capcom
Franchise
Strider
Genre
2D Platformer
Concepts
Ninja, Sci-Fi, Space
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2014-02-18
2014-02-19
2014-02-22

Strider, amongst other 2D platformers made by Capcom, is arguably an exceptional take on the genre. Released back in 2017, this is a reboot instalment of the original 1989 game. Featuring different elements from various genres like platforming, Metroidvania and hack & slash, Strider is worth every second of your playthrough.

In this fast-paced 2D hack-and-slash title, players take on the role of the assassin, Hiryu. Sent by the Strider Organization, the renowned assassin has to hunt down and kill Grandmaster Meio. On the surface, Strider is just another average 2D side-scroller, but on the grand scale, this is a phenomenal reboot. It goes without saying that the game is as challenging as the original. Both of these games will put your assassin skills to the test before you know it.

Transformers: Devastation


2015
About
Release Date
October 06, 2015
Developer
PlatinumGames
Publisher
Activision
Genre
Hack & Slash
Concepts
Anime, Mecha, Sci-Fi
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2015-10-06
2015-10-08
2015-10-09

Transformers: Devastation is PlatinumGames’ take on the Transformers franchise. A take that completely changed what the series was renowned for, instead opting for a full-blown hack and slash approach.

Devastation is an original story based on the Generation 1 continuity family. It sees players control the Autobots and their struggle to stop the Decepticons from turning planet earth into metal. With an incredible cel-shading style, and memorable Autobots to control, this is by far one of the best instalments in the series. Devastation along with the Fall of Cybertron were the last games to be under Activision’s 2006 licensing agreement with Hasbro. While you can’t access these games digitally, you can still get a physical copy off eBay.

Viking: Battle for Asgard


2008
About
Release Date
March 25, 2008
Developer
Creative Assembly
Publisher
SEGA
Genre
Hack & Slash
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
PS3 Releases
2008-03-25
2008-03-27
2008-03-28
2008-05-16

Viking: Battle for Asgard is a hack-and-slash take on the Viking Age that probably flew under your radar. Developed by Creative Assembly and published by SEGA back in 2008, Battle for Asgard is based on Norse Mythology. The game’s plot recounts the tiring struggle within Asgard, and the desperate need of a chosen warrior to end the war.

Similar to many role-playing games released at the time, players are thrown into the vast world of Midgard. Players can explore the surroundings, hunt down resources and also rescue other Vikings. In return, the Vikings will assist in the battle against fearsome enemies. Fans of Dragon Dogma or Two Worlds II will definitely appreciate this game.

Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 3


2010 ガンダム無双3 (Gundam Musou 3)
About
Release Date
December 16, 2010
Developer
Omega Force
Publisher
Bandai Namco
Franchise
Dynasty Warriors
Genre
Musou
Concepts
Anime, Mecha, Sci-Fi, Space
Players
Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Japan
PS3 Releases
2010-12-16
2011-06-28
2011-07-01
2011-07-14

Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 3 is yet another Musou, but featuring Mechs this time. Acting as the third instalment in the Gundam Musou franchise, the latter draws its inspiration from the Gundam manga and anime series.

Don’t be swayed by the complete idea that Gundam Musou doesn’t different from other Koei titles. Koei’s Gundam features unique mechanics that sets them apart. One such example is how players are given more combos and ranged weapons they can use in the game. Additionally, the hacking and slashing are seamless thanks to the Mechs’ mobility. Players can dash, jump and even dash their way through foes on-screen without losing pace.

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine


2011
About
Release Date
September 06, 2011
Developer
Relic Entertainment
Publisher
THQ
Genre
Third-Person Shooter
Concepts
Sci-Fi, Space
Players
Single Player
Monetization
Buy to Play
Country of Origin
Canada
PS3 Releases
2011-09-06
2011-09-09

Warhammer 40.000: Space Marine is a perfect example of how to break free from your predecessors’ roots without turning out to be a flop. Set in the Warhammer universe, the game tells the story of Captain Titus, a hero of the Ultramarines Space Marine. Sent to a Forge World along with his brethren, they must deal with an Orks invasion and liberate the location from their terror.

Whether or not you’re familiar with the source material, Space Marine is a blast to dive through. Although released back in 2011, the gameplay is still there to please fans of the genre. After ten years of the release of the original, Focus Entertainment shocked everyone with a sequel announcement back in 2021. If you haven’t played this game yet, it’s never too late.

This hole took a while to dig through, right? What can I say? Thank you for reading.

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FreeckyCake

I'm just your average gamer who enjoys hunting hidden gems and underrated games. My love for Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams is like a truck and I recommend that you play it.

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