Tobal 2 (1997)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 9 minutes read

Summary

Tobal 2 (1997): A Revolutionary Fighting Game

Released in 1997 for the PlayStation, Tobal 2 is a 3D fighting game that was groundbreaking for its time. It was one of the first fighting games to feature fully 3D characters and environments, and its fast-paced, combo-heavy gameplay was unlike anything else on the market.

Tobal 2 was developed by DreamFactory, a Japanese video game company founded by former Namco employees. The game was directed by Hiroyuki Imabayashi, who had previously worked on the Tekken series.

One of the things that made Tobal 2 so unique was its fighting system. Unlike most other fighting games at the time, which were based on 2D sprites, Tobal 2 featured fully 3D characters that could move freely around the arena. This gave players a much greater sense of freedom and control, and it allowed for more complex and strategic gameplay.

Another innovative feature of Tobal 2 was its grappling system. In most fighting games, grappling is a relatively simple affair, but in Tobal 2, it is a complex and nuanced system that can be used to devastating effect. Players can grapple their opponents from a variety of positions, and they can use a variety of different throws and submission holds to finish them off.

The cast of characters in Tobal 2 is diverse and well-designed. Each character has their own unique fighting style and backstory, and they all play differently. This gives players a lot of options to choose from, and it ensures that there is a character for everyone.

The graphics in Tobal 2 are impressive, even by today’s standards. The character models are highly detailed and the environments are lush and vibrant. The game runs at a smooth 60 frames per second, which makes for a very fluid and responsive gameplay experience.

The soundtrack to Tobal 2 is also excellent. It is a mix of techno, rock, and ambient music that perfectly captures the game’s fast-paced and intense atmosphere.

Tobal 2 was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and excellent soundtrack. The game was also a hit in the competitive fighting game community, and it remains one of the most popular fighting games of all time.

Legacy

Tobal 2 had a major impact on the fighting game genre. Its innovative gameplay and stunning graphics set a new standard for fighting games, and it inspired many other developers to create 3D fighting games of their own. Tobal 2 is still considered to be one of the best fighting games ever made, and it remains a popular choice for competitive play.

Re-release

In 2022, Tobal 2 was re-released on the PlayStation Network for the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. The re-release includes a number of new features, such as online multiplayer and support for the DualSense controller.

Conclusion

Tobal 2 is a classic fighting game that is still enjoyed by fans today. Its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and excellent soundtrack make it a must-play for any fan of the genre. If you are looking for a fighting game that will challenge you and provide hours of entertainment, then Tobal 2 is the game for you.

Characters

There are a total of 12 playable characters in Tobal 2. Each character has their own unique fighting style and backstory.

  • Akira Yuki: A young martial artist who is the protagonist of the Tobal series.
  • Kasumi Tendo: A kunoichi who is Akira’s childhood friend and rival.
  • Ryuji Yamazaki: A yakuza member who is known for his brutal fighting style.
  • Pai Chan: A Chinese martial artist who is known for her speed and agility.
  • Jackal: A masked wrestler who is known for his powerful throws.
  • Griffon: A cyborg who is known for his long reach and powerful attacks.
  • Anne-Marie: A French fencer who is known for her precision and speed.
  • Zieg: A German knight who is known for his strength and durability.
  • Roddy: A Scottish boxer who is known for his powerful punches.
  • Fia: A Native American shaman who is known for her ability to control spirits.
  • Tom Guycot: An English gentleman who is known for his unorthodox fighting style.
  • Sara Ryan: An American police officer who is known for her strength and determination.

Gameplay

Tobal 2 is a 3D fighting game that is played from a third-person perspective. Players can move their characters freely around the arena, and they can attack their opponents with a variety of punches, kicks, and throws.

The game’s fighting system is based on a three-button layout. The square button is used for light attacks, the triangle button is used for medium attacks, and the circle button is used for heavy attacks. The L1 and R1 buttons are used to block, and the L2 and R2 buttons are used to grapple.

Players can also use a variety of special moves and combos to defeat their opponents. Special moves are performed by pressing a combination of buttons, and combos are performed by chaining together a series of attacks.

Tobal 2 also features a unique “Tension Gauge” system. The Tension Gauge fills up as players attack and take damage. When the Tension Gauge is full, players can use a special move called a “Tension Burst.” Tension Bursts are powerful attacks that can deal significant damage to opponents.

Modes

Tobal 2 features a variety of different game modes, including:

  • Arcade Mode: In Arcade Mode, players fight against a series of computer-controlled opponents. The goal is to defeat all of the opponents and reach the final boss.
  • Versus Mode: In Versus Mode, two players can fight against each other.
  • Team Battle Mode: In Team Battle Mode, two teams of two players fight against each other.
  • Tournament Mode: In Tournament Mode, up to eight players can compete in a single-elimination tournament.
  • Training Mode: In Training Mode, players can practice their fighting skills against a computer-controlled opponent.

Reception

Tobal 2 was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and excellent soundtrack. The game was also a hit in the competitive fighting game community, and it remains one of the most popular fighting games of all time.

Tobal 2 received a score of 8.5 out of 10 from IGN, which praised the game’s “innovative gameplay,” “stunning graphics,” and “excellent soundtrack.” GameSpot gave the game a score of 8 out of 10, saying that it is “a solid fighting game that is sure to please fans of the genre.”

Legacy

Tobal 2 had a major impact on the fighting game genre. Its innovative gameplay and stunning graphics set a new standard for fighting games, and it inspired many other developers to create 3D fighting games of their own. Tobal 2 is still considered to be one of the best fighting games ever made, and it remains a popular choice for competitive play.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Profile photo of Ji-yeong

Ji-yeong is a passionate gamer and whose love for video games blossomed during her childhood. Growing up in the midwest, without many friends, she spent countless hours exploring the enchanting worlds of classic JRPGs like Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger, which sparked not only an enduring love for gaming but also a keen insight into its evolving landscape. Today, Ji-yeong channels her deep-seated passion and nostalgia into thoughtful, engaging reviews that resonate with both longtime gamers and newcomers alike. Her unique perspective, rooted in a rich history of gaming, offers readers a heartfelt journey through the pixels and stories that have shaped her love for this dynamic medium. Her favorite game series of all time is Harvest Moon.

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