Summary
Dead or Alive Paradise brings the characters of the Dead or Alive series to a new setting, focusing on beach-themed minigames and relaxation. Despite its departure from the series’ fighting roots, it provides a unique, albeit controversial, gaming experience.
- Release Year: 2010
- Genres: Simulator, Sport
- Platforms: PlayStation Portable
- Developers: Project Venus
- Publishers: Koei Tecmo Games
Introduction
Dead or Alive Paradise takes the Dead or Alive series in a new direction, focusing on leisure and minigames in a tropical island setting. Released for the portable game system in 2010, it marks a unique entry in the series, offering a different kind of gaming experience.
Synopsis
“Dead or Alive Paradise” (DOAP), released in 2010, is a video game developed by Project Venus and published by Tecmo Koei. It is part of the Dead or Alive series and is a PlayStation Portable (PSP) port of “Dead or Alive Xtreme 2” for the Xbox 360. This game was the first in the series to be released for a portable game system.
The game begins with the player embarking on a two-week vacation on New Zack Island. The island is primarily inhabited by the swimsuit-clad girls from the Dead or Alive series. The gameplay is multifaceted, with the most prominent feature being the beach volleyball minigame, similar to “Dead or Alive Xtreme 2”. Other minigames include pool games like swimming pool hopping and butt battles, as well as casino games like poker, blackjack, and slots.
Another aspect of the game involves interacting with the girls by socializing with them and giving them presents, such as new swimwear. Players can also purchase a camera from the Island Shop and take photographs of the girls, which can then be compiled into an album. Once the relationship with the girls reaches an intimate level, the girls present the player with “venus clips,” which can be viewed and edited by the player.
The game features playable characters from the Dead or Alive series: Ayane, Christie, Helena, Hitomi, Kasumi, Kokoro, Leifang, Lisa, and Tina. An additional character, Rio, is a guest character from a series of pachislot titles by Tecmo.
The game was first revealed in the Japanese gaming magazine Famitsu in December 2009. A North American release was announced a month later in January 2010. Despite mixed-to-negative critical reception, the game marked a significant milestone in the Dead or Alive series, being the first release since the departure of the series’ creator, Tomonobu Itagaki.
“Dead or Alive Paradise” is a unique blend of sports, casino, and relationship-building gameplay set in a tropical paradise. Despite its mixed reception, it remains a notable entry in the Dead or Alive series and a testament to the versatility of the franchise.
Characters
The game features female characters from the Dead or Alive series, each with their own personalities and styles. Players can choose to play as or interact with these characters throughout the game, participating in activities and building friendships.
Gameplay
Gameplay in Dead or Alive Paradise consists of a variety of beach-related minigames such as beach volleyball, pool hopping, and casino games. Players can also take on the role of a photographer, capturing the characters in various poses and outfits. The game encourages players to explore the island, participate in activities, and interact with characters to build relationships.
Conclusion
While Dead or Alive Paradise offers a visually appealing and unique experience within the Dead or Alive series, its focus on leisure activities and character interaction may not appeal to all fans of the franchise. It stands as a divisive entry in the series, catering to a niche audience.
Review Score
5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
Fan Art
Fan Art Style: Normal
Fan Art Style: Retro
Fan Art Style: Modern
