三国志 (1985)

"Romance of the Three Kingdoms" (Japanese: 三國志) is a historical strategy simulation game first released by Japanese company Koei in 1985, based on the Three Kingdoms period of China. As the inaugural title in the "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" series, it debuted on the PC-88 home computer platform and was subsequently ported to numerous platforms. The game's success laid the foundation for the subsequent series, with global cumulative sales exceeding 9 million units by 2020. The release of the first "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" marked Koei's rise in the historical simulation game genre. Its unique strategic gameplay and combination with the Three Kingdoms theme attracted a wide audience. The game allows players to assume the role of a monarch during the Three Kingdoms era, using internal affairs, military, and diplomacy to eventually unify China. Although the graphics and systems appear rudimentary by today's standards, its groundbreaking gameplay and profound historical background make it a classic in gaming history. The game had a significant impact not only in Japan but also globally, promoting the development of Three Kingdoms themed games.