BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II (2010)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II

BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II is a 2D fighting game developed by Arc System Works and published by Aksys Games. It was released in arcades in Japan in 2010, and on PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PlayStation Portable, and Nintendo 3DS in 2011. It is the enhanced version of BlazBlue: Continuum Shift, and features all of the console exclusive characters, numerous balance changes, and other cosmetic changes such as a new announcer.

Continuum Shift II was released as a free downloadable update for both PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 versions of BlazBlue: Continuum Shift. The PlayStation Portable and Nintendo 3DS ports of the game include all the characters released as downloadable content with possible new story elements for them, a new mode called “Abyss”, and balance tweaks as well.

Gameplay

BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II is a 2D fighting game with traditional fighting game controls. Players use a combination of normal attacks, special moves, and Overdrive attacks to defeat their opponents. The game features a unique mechanic called the “Drive” system, which allows players to build up meter to use special moves and Overdrive attacks.

The Drive system is divided into three levels:

  • Heat: The first level of Drive. Players can use Heat to perform special moves.
  • Burst: The second level of Drive. Players can use Burst to cancel moves, extend combos, and perform Overdrive attacks.
  • Overdrive: The third level of Drive. Players can use Overdrive to power up their special moves and perform Overdrive attacks.

Players can build up Drive by landing attacks, blocking attacks, and using certain special moves. They can also use the “Drive Gauge” to store Drive for later use.

Characters

BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II features a roster of 21 characters, including all of the console exclusive characters from BlazBlue: Continuum Shift. The characters are:

  • Ragna the Bloodedge: The protagonist of the BlazBlue series. He is a powerful swordsman who is searching for the truth about his past.
  • Jin Kisaragi: The leader of the NOL. He is a skilled swordsman who is determined to protect the world from the Black Beast.
  • Noel Vermillion: A member of the NOL. She is a kind and caring person who is searching for her lost memories.
  • Rachel Alucard: A mysterious vampire who is the leader of the Librarium. She is searching for the Azure Grimoire, a powerful artifact that could destroy the world.
  • Taokaka: A catgirl who is a member of the NOL. She is a skilled fighter who is always looking for a good fight.
  • Litchi Faye Ling: A doctor who is a member of the NOL. She is a skilled fighter who is searching for a cure for the Black Beast.
  • Hazama: A member of the NOL. He is a mysterious and powerful fighter who is working for his own agenda.
  • Tsubaki Yayoi: A member of the NOL. She is a skilled swordswoman who is loyal to Jin.
  • Bang Shishigami: A member of the NOL. He is a skilled martial artist who is searching for his missing sister.
  • Carl Clover: A member of the NOL. He is a skilled fighter who is searching for the Azure Grimoire.
  • Arakune: A member of the NOL. He is a skilled fighter who is searching for the Black Beast.
  • Makoto Nanaya: A member of the NOL. She is a skilled fighter who is searching for her missing father.
  • Valkenhayn R. Hellsing: A member of the NOL. He is a skilled fighter who is searching for the Azure Grimoire.
  • Platinum the Trinity: A member of the NOL. She is a skilled fighter who is searching for the Azure Grimoire.
  • Bullet: A member of the NOL. She is a skilled fighter who is searching for the Azure Grimoire.
  • Hibiki Kohaku: A member of the NOL. She is a skilled fighter who is searching for the Azure Grimoire.
  • Mai Natsume: A member of the NOL. She is a skilled fighter who is searching for the Azure Grimoire.
  • Azrael: The main antagonist of the BlazBlue series. He is a powerful being who is seeking to destroy the world.
  • Mu-12: A mysterious being who is working for Azrael.
  • Nine the Phantom: A mysterious being who is working for Azrael.

Modes

BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II features a variety of modes, including:

  • Arcade Mode: A single-player mode where players fight against a series of computer-controlled opponents.
  • Story Mode: A single-player mode

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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