The story is a huge step up from the previous release "DW3XL". Kingdoms based story mode is a refreshing change that reduces grind, and duels are interesting additions to the game. While game progression and immersion are significantly better than the previous game, I also feel like there are huge miss steps. For instance, in DW3XL, you can get weapon loot with different stats after completing each stage, but for this game, your weapon is levelled up through weapon EXP, which is in my opinion way less fun. Weapons no longer have their own stats until you acquire lvl 11 weapons from Legend Mode, from the expanded version "DW4XL". The lack of weapon loot is a step backwards. The combat in general also feels worse and less rewarding than DW3XL. In the previous release, with time and practice, you can anticipate the AI's movements and beat them in a more strategical way, but DW4 relies more on luck rather than skill. The troops are even more annoying to deal with, especially when they interrupt your attacks with their jump charge, which is incredibly frustrating to deal with. Don't get me started with enemies juggling you to your death. Overall, while the game's story is a big step forward in addition to a few other changes, the removal of weapon loot and a less rewarding combat system makes the game less fun than it's predecessor. Story and progression wise, it is more polished. Combat wise, it is a downgrade.

It expands DW4 in every way a fan could want, just perfect (as long as you have the original DW4). I spent countless hours unlocking everything as a teen.