In Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening, players will experience the life of a daimyō, a powerful Japanese leader, in the troubled times of the Warring States Period, 16th century Japan. As the head of their own clan, players will have to make the best decisions in key areas ranging from the economy to diplomacy, and military might in hopes of eventually unifying the country.

To do so, they will be supported by retainers, AI officers who think and act on their own judgment. Retainers will provide submissions to the players to help them plan their battle strategy. In addition, Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening will include various features that befit the 40th Anniversary of the series, including landmarks and achievements that will affect the strategy.

Players will also enjoy a large variety of scenarios, events, policies, and more, as well as elements from the previous titles such as an editing function that will allow them to change officer status, background music, and scenarios, or create new clans.