SW5 is probably the biggest departure in the series. Emphasis on a few characters for story and the new cel-shaded artstyle. Many returning characters also get dramatically different designs as well. The actual gameplay itself is fun like the rest and the formula hasn't changed much there for better or for worse.

The story mode is pretty detailed in showcasing the events of Nobunaga and those closely around him. For those that liked his character, will probably like the new story mode. As someone who didn't really care much for him to begin with, the actual story was just okay. The lack of key SW Veterans not just in the story department, but also as actual characters in the game was very disappointing.

The one big "side mode" to the game is Citadel Mode which is like a base defense mode. It's not really interesting which is a shame since there's nothing else besides the Story Mode and the Free Mode equivalent to it.

Compared to SW4, it feels lacking in content.