Publisher: Arc System Works

Hooked! Real Motion Fishing (2007)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Hooked! Real Motion Fishing (2007): A Virtual Angling Adventure

Introduction

Prepare to cast your line into the digital waters of Hooked! Real Motion Fishing, a groundbreaking Wii game that brings the excitement and tranquility of fishing to the comfort of your living room. Released in 2007, this innovative title revolutionized the fishing genre with its immersive gameplay and realistic motion controls.

Gameplay

Hooked! Real Motion Fishing captures the essence of real-world angling with remarkable precision. Using the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers, players mimic the movements of casting, reeling, and fighting fish. The game’s intuitive controls allow for subtle adjustments, such as varying the speed and angle of your cast, to maximize your chances of landing a catch.

The game features six diverse and photorealistic lakes, each with its own unique fish species and environmental challenges. From the serene waters of Lake Serenity to the meteor-cratered Lake Meteor, every location offers a distinct fishing experience. Players must adapt their techniques to the different species of fish, their behavior, and the underwater terrain.

Motion Controls

The Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers provide an unparalleled level of immersion in Hooked! Real Motion Fishing. The Wii Remote acts as the fishing rod, allowing players to cast, reel, and set the hook with realistic movements. The Nunchuk controls the movement of the angler, enabling players to navigate the lake and position themselves for the best fishing spots.

The motion controls are incredibly responsive and intuitive, making players feel like they are actually standing on the shore of a lake, casting their line into the water. The game’s physics engine accurately simulates the weight and movement of the fish, providing a thrilling and realistic fishing experience.

Variety and Challenge

Hooked! Real Motion Fishing offers a wide variety of fish species to catch, each with its own unique behavior and habitat. From common species like bass and trout to more exotic fish like sturgeon and sharks, there are over 30 different types of fish to pursue.

The game also features a variety of challenges and tournaments to keep players engaged. Players can compete against AI opponents or friends in local multiplayer mode, or they can simply relax and enjoy the beauty of the lakes.

Graphics and Presentation

Hooked! Real Motion Fishing boasts stunning graphics that bring the lakes and fish to life. The water is crystal clear, reflecting the sunlight and ripples caused by the fish. The fish themselves are beautifully rendered, with realistic scales, fins, and movements.

The game’s presentation is equally impressive, with a user-friendly interface and informative tutorials that guide players through the basics of fishing. The sound effects are realistic and immersive, adding to the overall atmosphere of the game.

Immersive Experience

Hooked! Real Motion Fishing goes beyond simply simulating the act of fishing; it creates a truly immersive experience that transports players to the tranquility of a lakeside retreat. The game’s beautiful environments, realistic sound effects, and intuitive controls combine to create an unparalleled sense of realism and escapism.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a complete novice, Hooked! Real Motion Fishing offers an unforgettable fishing experience. Its innovative motion controls, stunning graphics, and engaging gameplay make it a must-play for anyone who enjoys the thrill of the catch.

Conclusion

Hooked! Real Motion Fishing (2007) is a pioneering game that revolutionized the fishing genre. Its immersive motion controls, photorealistic graphics, and diverse gameplay provide an unparalleled level of realism and enjoyment. Whether you’re casting your line for a relaxing afternoon of fishing or competing against friends in a virtual tournament, Hooked! Real Motion Fishing offers an unforgettable experience that will keep you hooked for hours on end.

Review Score

7.5/10

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BlazBlue: Continuum Shift Extend (2011)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

BlazBlue: Continuum Shift Extend: An In-Depth Exploration of the Ultimate 2D Fighting Experience

Introduction

BlazBlue: Continuum Shift Extend (BBCSE), released in 2011, stands as the pinnacle of the BlazBlue series and one of the most refined and exhilarating 2D fighting games ever created. As the enhanced version of BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II, BBCSE boasts a plethora of improvements, including an expanded roster, enhanced story mode, new game modes, and meticulous balance adjustments.

Gameplay: A Symphony of Combat

BBCSE’s gameplay is a masterpiece of precision and depth. The game features a diverse cast of characters, each with unique abilities, playstyles, and intricate combo systems. The combat mechanics are incredibly well-tuned, allowing for both technical mastery and creative expression.

One of the defining features of BBCSE is the Drive system. Each character has access to a limited pool of Drive, which can be used to perform special moves, cancels, and enhanced attacks. Managing Drive effectively is crucial to success, as it adds a layer of strategic depth to the gameplay.

The game also introduces the Overdrive system, which allows characters to enter a powered-up state that grants them access to new abilities and enhanced damage output. Overdrive is a powerful tool, but it comes at the cost of draining the character’s health, adding an element of risk-reward to its use.

Characters: A Tapestry of Personalities

BBCSE features a roster of 20 playable characters, each with their own unique backstory, motivations, and fighting style. From the stoic swordsman Ragna the Bloodedge to the enigmatic vampire Rachel Alucard, every character brings something unique to the table.

The game’s cast is diverse not only in their abilities but also in their personalities. There are tragic heroes, cunning villains, and everything in between. The interactions between the characters add depth to the story mode and create memorable moments.

Story Mode: A Tale of Intrigue and Conflict

BBCSE’s story mode, Blazblue Calamity Trigger Reconstruction, is a sprawling epic that delves into the complex lore of the BlazBlue universe. The story follows the various characters as they navigate a world torn apart by war and ancient curses.

The story mode is fully voiced and features stunning cutscenes that bring the characters and their struggles to life. It is a gripping tale that will keep players engaged from beginning to end.

New Additions: Refining the Experience

BBCSE introduces several new additions that enhance the overall experience. One of the most notable is the Unlimited Mars game mode, which pits players against increasingly difficult waves of enemies. This mode is a great way to test one’s skills and earn rewards.

The game also includes hidden Distortion Drives for each character’s Unlimited form. These powerful moves add even more variety and depth to the combat system.

Balance and Refinement: The Pursuit of Perfection

One of the hallmarks of BBCSE is its meticulous balance. The developers have spent countless hours fine-tuning the gameplay to ensure that every character is viable and that no one strategy is overwhelmingly dominant.

The game’s balance updates are ongoing, with regular patches released to address any issues and keep the gameplay fresh. This dedication to refinement is a testament to the developers’ commitment to creating the ultimate fighting game experience.

Conclusion

BlazBlue: Continuum Shift Extend is a masterpiece of the 2D fighting game genre. Its refined gameplay, diverse cast of characters, captivating story mode, and ongoing balance updates make it a must-play for any fan of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to fighting games, BBCSE offers an unforgettable and rewarding experience.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Guilty Gear XX Accent Core (2006)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Guilty Gear XX Accent Core: The Pinnacle of Anime Fighting Games

Released in 2006, Guilty Gear XX Accent Core is the definitive version of the classic anime fighting game Guilty Gear XX. It features a revamped roster, rebalanced gameplay, and stunning new visuals and audio.

Gameplay

Guilty Gear XX Accent Core is a 2D fighting game with a unique cel-shaded art style and fast-paced, action-packed gameplay. Players control one of 25 characters, each with their own unique fighting style and special moves. The game features a variety of modes, including Arcade, Versus, and Training, as well as online multiplayer.

One of the most distinctive features of Guilty Gear XX Accent Core is its Roman Cancel system. This allows players to cancel certain moves into other moves, creating long and complex combos. The game also features a Burst system, which allows players to escape from combos or unblockable attacks.

Characters

Guilty Gear XX Accent Core features a diverse cast of 25 characters, each with their own unique backstory and fighting style. Some of the most popular characters include:

  • Sol Badguy: A bounty hunter with a mysterious past and a powerful flamethrower arm.
  • Ky Kiske: A holy knight who fights for justice with his lightning-fast sword.
  • May: A young pirate captain who uses anchors and dolphins in battle.
  • Potemkin: A giant wrestler who fights with a massive anchor and a devastating Grappler super move.
  • Millia Rage: A skilled assassin who uses her knives and hair to deadly effect.

Story

Guilty Gear XX Accent Core’s story mode follows the events of Guilty Gear XX, as the Gear cells continue to spread and threaten the world. The player takes control of one of the game’s characters and must fight their way through hordes of enemies to uncover the truth behind the Gears and their creators.

Graphics and Audio

Guilty Gear XX Accent Core features stunning cel-shaded graphics that bring the characters and environments to life. The game’s soundtrack is also top-notch, with a mix of heavy metal and rock music that perfectly complements the fast-paced gameplay.

Reception

Guilty Gear XX Accent Core was met with critical acclaim upon its release. Critics praised the game’s visuals, gameplay, and soundtrack, and it quickly became one of the most popular fighting games on the market. The game has been ported to multiple platforms, including the PlayStation 2, Xbox 360, and PC.

Legacy

Guilty Gear XX Accent Core is considered to be one of the best fighting games ever made. It has been praised for its innovative gameplay, unique art style, and memorable characters. The game has also had a significant impact on the fighting game community, and it is still played competitively today.

Conclusion

Guilty Gear XX Accent Core is a masterpiece of the fighting game genre. It offers fast-paced, action-packed gameplay, stunning visuals and audio, and a diverse cast of characters. Whether you’re a seasoned fighting game veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Guilty Gear XX Accent Core is a must-play.

Review Score

8.5/10

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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

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Guilty Gear (1998)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Guilty Gear: The Anime Fighting Game That Changed the Genre

Released in 1998, Guilty Gear is a groundbreaking 2D fighting game that quickly gained a cult following. With its unique art style, innovative gameplay mechanics, and memorable cast of characters, Guilty Gear has had a lasting impact on the fighting game genre.

A Dark and Gritty World

Guilty Gear is set in a dark and gritty world where humans and gears, artificial beings created by mixing human and animal DNA, coexist. However, tensions between the two groups are high, and a war is brewing.

The game’s story revolves around a tournament organized by the Sacred Order of Knights to find someone capable of defeating Justice, a rogue gear who has escaped from prison and is leading a rebellion against humanity.

Innovative Gameplay Mechanics

Guilty Gear introduced several innovative gameplay mechanics that set it apart from other fighting games at the time. These mechanics include:

  • Roman Cancels: Roman Cancels allow players to cancel moves into special moves or overdrives, giving them more combo options and making the game more fast-paced and exciting.
  • Instant Kills: Instant Kills are powerful moves that can instantly defeat an opponent if they connect. However, they can only be used once per round, so players must use them wisely.
  • Dust Attacks: Dust Attacks are unblockable attacks that can be used to punish opponents who are knocked down. However, they can be countered by other Dust Attacks, so players must be careful when using them.

Memorable Cast of Characters

Guilty Gear is known for its cast of memorable and unique characters. Each character has their own backstory, fighting style, and motivations. Some of the most popular characters include:

  • Sol Badguy: A bounty hunter with a mysterious past and a vendetta against gears.
  • Ky Kiske: One of the most skilled knights of the Sacred Order and a rival of Sol Badguy.
  • May: A young woman who fights with a giant anchor.
  • Axl Low: A time-traveling bounty hunter.
  • Potemkin: A giant Russian wrestler.

Critical and Commercial Success

Guilty Gear was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and memorable characters. It has since been ported to numerous platforms and has spawned several sequels and spin-offs.

Legacy

Guilty Gear has had a lasting impact on the fighting game genre. Its innovative gameplay mechanics have been adopted by other fighting games, and its unique art style has inspired many other games and anime. The game is still popular today, and it is considered one of the greatest fighting games of all time.

Conclusion

Guilty Gear is a classic fighting game that changed the genre forever. With its innovative gameplay mechanics, stunning graphics, and memorable characters, Guilty Gear is a must-play for any fan of fighting games.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Battle Fantasia (2007)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Battle Fantasia: A Vibrant Fusion of 2D and 3D Fighting

From the renowned creators of the Guilty Gear series comes Battle Fantasia, a captivating 2D fighting game that seamlessly blends lively 3D backgrounds with cel-shaded graphics and fantasy-themed characters. Released in 2007, Battle Fantasia offers a thrilling mix of traditional fighting game modes and an immersive Story mode that delves into the lives of its ten main fighters.

Gameplay: A Harmony of Tradition and Innovation

At its core, Battle Fantasia is a traditional 2D fighter, featuring classic modes such as Arcade, Versus, Time Attack, and Practice. Players select from a roster of ten unique characters, each with their own distinct fighting styles and special moves. The game’s combat system is accessible to newcomers yet deep enough to challenge even seasoned fighting game veterans.

One of the key gameplay mechanics in Battle Fantasia is the Heat mode. By sacrificing a portion of their energy gauge, players can enter Heat mode, which grants them enhanced attacks and abilities. However, using Heat mode recklessly can leave players vulnerable to counterattacks, adding an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay.

Characters: A Tapestry of Fantasy and Intrigue

Battle Fantasia’s roster of ten fighters is a diverse and intriguing cast of fantasy-themed characters. From the elf princess Leina to the vampire hunter Van, each character has their own unique backstory and motivations. The game’s Story mode provides a deeper dive into the characters’ lives, revealing their struggles, ambitions, and relationships.

Story Mode: An RPG-Inspired Journey

Unlike many fighting games, Battle Fantasia features a robust Story mode that offers RPG-style dialogue and detailed character profiles. As players progress through the Story mode, they will learn more about the characters’ pasts and the conflicts that drive them. The Story mode also serves as a tutorial, gradually introducing players to the game’s mechanics and combat system.

Graphics and Presentation: A Visual Feast

Battle Fantasia’s cel-shaded graphics and vibrant 3D backgrounds create a visually stunning fighting game experience. The character designs are intricate and expressive, while the backgrounds are rich in detail and atmosphere. The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a mix of orchestral and rock music that perfectly complements the on-screen action.

Online Multiplayer: Battle Against the World

In addition to its single-player modes, Battle Fantasia also offers online multiplayer, allowing players to engage in head-to-head matches against friends or other players around the world. The game’s netcode is solid, providing a smooth and lag-free online experience.

Legacy and Impact

Despite its critical acclaim and dedicated fanbase, Battle Fantasia remains a somewhat underrated gem in the fighting game genre. However, its unique blend of 2D and 3D graphics, innovative gameplay mechanics, and immersive Story mode make it a standout title that deserves recognition.

Battle Fantasia’s influence can be seen in subsequent fighting games, particularly in its use of cel-shaded graphics and its emphasis on character development. The game’s success also helped pave the way for other Arc System Works titles, such as the BlazBlue and Granblue Fantasy Versus series.

Conclusion: A Timeless Fighting Game Masterpiece

Battle Fantasia is a testament to the creativity and passion of its developers. Its vibrant visuals, engaging gameplay, and memorable characters make it a must-play for fans of fighting games and fantasy enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Battle Fantasia offers an unforgettable gaming experience that will leave you wanting more.

Review Score

8.5/10

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BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger (2008)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger (2008) Review

BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger is a 2D fighting game developed by Arc System Works and released in arcades in 2008. It is the first game in the BlazBlue series, and was later ported to PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC. The game features a cast of 12 characters, each with their own unique fighting style and special abilities.

BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger is set in a world where magic and technology coexist. The game’s story follows Ragna the Bloodedge, a man who is searching for his sister, Saya. Ragna is pursued by the NOL, a powerful organization that is trying to capture him and use his power for their own evil purposes.

The gameplay in BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger is fast-paced and action-packed. Players can use a variety of attacks and special moves to defeat their opponents. The game also features a unique mechanic called the “Drive” system, which allows players to power up their attacks and special moves.

BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger was praised for its beautiful visuals, fast-paced gameplay, and great cast of characters. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 200,000 copies worldwide.

Gameplay

BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger is a traditional 2D fighting game where two characters participate in a duel. Each character has a weak, medium, and strong attack, as well as an “unique” technique, called a Drive attack, which is different for each character. Various combos can be performed by every character through careful input of regular and Drive attacks.

The game’s controls are simple and easy to learn, but difficult to master. Players must use a combination of precise timing and quick reactions to defeat their opponents. The game also features a number of different game modes, including arcade mode, story mode, and online multiplayer.

Characters

BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger features a cast of 12 characters, each with their own unique fighting style and special abilities. The characters are:

  • Ragna the Bloodedge: The protagonist of the game, Ragna is a powerful swordsman who is searching for his sister, Saya.
  • Jin Kisaragi: The leader of the NOL, Jin is a skilled swordsman who is determined to capture Ragna and use his power for his own evil purposes.
  • Noel Vermillion: A member of the NOL, Noel is a kind-hearted woman who is torn between her loyalty to the NOL and her desire to do what is right.
  • Rachel Alucard: A mysterious woman who is said to be the key to the world’s salvation.
  • Taokaka: A catgirl who is the leader of the Kaka Clan.
  • Litchi Faye Ling: A doctor who is trying to find a cure for the Black Beast disease.
  • Carl Clover: A young boy who is obsessed with science and technology.
  • Arakune: A parasitic creature that is trying to take over the world.
  • Tager: A giant cyborg who is loyal to the NOL.
  • Tsubaki Yayoi: A skilled swordswoman who is loyal to Jin.
  • Hazama: A mysterious man who is working behind the scenes to manipulate events.
  • Mu-12: A robotic doll who is trying to find her purpose in life.

Story

The story of BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger is set in a world where magic and technology coexist. The game’s story follows Ragna the Bloodedge, a man who is searching for his sister, Saya. Ragna is pursued by the NOL, a powerful organization that is trying to capture him and use his power for their own evil purposes.

The story of BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger is told through a series of cutscenes and dialogue sequences. The game’s story is complex and well-written, and it features a number of twists and turns.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger are beautiful and detailed. The game’s characters and backgrounds are all rendered in high-definition, and the game’s animations are fluid and smooth. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, and it features a mix of rock, metal, and electronic music.

Overall

BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger is an excellent fighting game with beautiful visuals, fast-paced gameplay, and a great cast of characters. The game’s story is also complex and well-written, and it features a number of twists and turns. Overall, BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger is a must-play for fans of fighting games.

Review Score

8.5/10

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BlazBlue: Chrono Phantasma Extend (2014)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

BlazBlue: Chrono Phantasma Extend: An Epic Clash of Anime and Fighting Excellence

Introduction

BlazBlue: Chrono Phantasma Extend, the definitive version of the acclaimed 2D fighting game, arrived in 2014, bringing an explosive combination of stunning visuals, an expanded roster, and captivating story modes. Building upon the foundations of its predecessors, Extend delivers an unparalleled fighting experience that caters to both casual and hardcore fans alike.

Enhanced Visuals and Gameplay

Chrono Phantasma Extend boasts breathtaking 2D visuals that push the boundaries of the genre. The vibrant character sprites, fluid animations, and dynamic backgrounds create a visually stunning spectacle that immerses players in the intense battles. The gameplay has been refined and polished, resulting in a more balanced and responsive fighting system. New mechanics, such as the Overdrive and Active Flow systems, add depth and strategy to the combat, allowing players to unleash devastating attacks and control the pace of the match.

Expanded Roster and Diverse Characters

One of the key highlights of Extend is its expanded roster, which includes two additional characters: Lambda-11 and Celica A. Mercury. Lambda-11, a mysterious and powerful being, wields the power of Observer, while Celica, a skilled mage, commands the Azure Grimoire. Each character possesses unique abilities, playstyles, and backstories, adding variety and depth to the gameplay.

Immersive Story Modes

Beyond the intense battles, Chrono Phantasma Extend offers a rich and engaging story mode that expands upon the lore of the BlazBlue universe. Players can delve into the “Remix Heart” scenario, which adapts the events of the BlazBlue: Remix Heart manga, or experience character-specific scenarios that shed light on the motivations and struggles of fan-favorite characters like Kokonoe, Kagura, and Bullet.

Additional Modes and Features

In addition to the main story mode, Extend introduces several new modes and features to enhance the gameplay experience. The “Beach” scenario, originally exclusive to the PlayStation Vita version of Chrono Phantasma, allows players to interact with characters in a more relaxed setting. Library Mode, which was absent from the original Vita release but reintroduced in Extend, provides a comprehensive collection of information on the game’s characters, story, and gameplay mechanics.

Critical Reception and Legacy

BlazBlue: Chrono Phantasma Extend received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, earning praise for its stunning visuals, refined gameplay, and expanded content. It quickly became a favorite among fighting game enthusiasts and was hailed as one of the best 2D fighters of its generation. The game’s success cemented the BlazBlue series as a staple in the fighting game genre, known for its captivating story, memorable characters, and intense battles.

Conclusion

BlazBlue: Chrono Phantasma Extend stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of 2D fighting games. With its vibrant visuals, diverse roster, engaging story modes, and refined gameplay, Extend delivers an unforgettable experience that caters to both casual and hardcore fans alike. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or new to the BlazBlue universe, Chrono Phantasma Extend is an essential addition to your fighting game library.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Guilty Gear Xrd: Revelator (2015)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Guilty Gear Xrd: Revelator – A Blazing Symphony of Fighting Excellence

Introduction

In the realm of fighting games, few franchises command the respect and admiration of Guilty Gear. Known for its intricate gameplay, stunning visuals, and unforgettable characters, the series has captivated gamers for over two decades. Guilty Gear Xrd: Revelator, released in 2015, stands as a testament to the franchise’s enduring legacy, offering a refined and exhilarating fighting experience that pushes the boundaries of the genre.

Gameplay Mechanics

At the heart of Guilty Gear Xrd: Revelator lies a complex and rewarding gameplay system that caters to both casual and competitive players alike. The game introduces several new mechanics that enhance the already deep combat, including:

  • Burst Gauge: A resource that allows players to perform powerful attacks, cancels, and defensive maneuvers.
  • Roman Cancels: A technique that allows players to cancel the recovery of certain moves into special moves or other actions.
  • Overdrive: A state that grants characters enhanced abilities and access to powerful Overdrive moves.
  • Psych Burst: A defensive counter that can absorb an opponent’s attack and grant a temporary boost to the user’s Burst Gauge.

These mechanics add an extra layer of depth and strategy to the game, allowing players to express their creativity and skill in countless ways.

Characters

Guilty Gear Xrd: Revelator boasts a diverse roster of 23 characters, each with their own unique playstyles, abilities, and backstories. From the iconic Sol Badguy to the enigmatic Elphelt Valentine, every character feels distinct and offers a different approach to combat.

The game also introduces three new characters:

  • Jack-O’: A mysterious and enigmatic fighter who wields a sentient pumpkin lantern named Happy Chaos.
  • Johnny: A flamboyant rockstar and expert gambler who uses his guitar as a deadly weapon.
  • Jam Kuradoberi: A skilled kunoichi who specializes in close-range combat and utilizes various ninja techniques.

These new additions bring fresh dynamics to the game’s already stellar cast, ensuring that players have a wide range of options to choose from.

Story Mode

Guilty Gear Xrd: Revelator features a compelling story mode that expands upon the rich lore of the Guilty Gear universe. The narrative follows the various characters as they navigate a complex web of alliances, betrayals, and ancient prophecies.

The story mode is presented through beautifully animated cutscenes and fully voiced dialogue, immersing players in the game’s captivating world. It offers a deep and engaging experience that adds depth to the characters and their motivations.

Graphics and Presentation

Guilty Gear Xrd: Revelator is a visual masterpiece that showcases the power of the Unreal Engine 3. The game’s cel-shaded graphics are vibrant and detailed, bringing the characters and environments to life with stunning clarity.

The animations are fluid and expressive, capturing the intensity and grace of the fighting action. The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a mix of heavy metal, rock, and electronic music that perfectly complements the game’s over-the-top aesthetic.

Multiplayer

Guilty Gear Xrd: Revelator offers robust online multiplayer options that allow players to test their skills against opponents from around the world. The game features ranked and casual matches, as well as lobbies where players can spectate or challenge others.

The netcode is generally praised for its stability and low latency, ensuring a smooth and responsive online experience. This allows players to engage in intense and competitive matches without experiencing significant lag or interruptions.

Conclusion

Guilty Gear Xrd: Revelator is a fighting game masterpiece that delivers an unparalleled experience for both casual and hardcore players alike. With its intricate gameplay, diverse character roster, compelling story mode, stunning visuals, and robust multiplayer, the game sets a new benchmark for the genre.

Whether you are a seasoned Guilty Gear veteran or a newcomer to the franchise, Guilty Gear Xrd: Revelator is an essential addition to any fighting game enthusiast’s collection. It is a game that will captivate you with its depth, challenge you with its complexity, and leave you in awe with its sheer brilliance.

Review Score

9/10

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Guilty Gear Xrd: Sign (2014)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Guilty Gear Xrd: Sign – A Revolution in 2D Fighting

Prepare yourself for an adrenaline-pumping journey into the vibrant and chaotic world of Guilty Gear Xrd: Sign, the latest installment in the legendary Guilty Gear fighting game series. Released in 2014, this title marked a significant turning point for the franchise, introducing stunning 3D visuals, innovative gameplay mechanics, and an immersive storyline that captivated players worldwide.

A Visual Masterpiece

One of the most striking aspects of Guilty Gear Xrd: Sign is its breathtaking visuals. Arc System Works, the renowned developer behind the series, has outdone themselves with this title, creating a game that pushes the boundaries of 2D animation. The vibrant colors, intricate character designs, and fluid animations bring the world of Guilty Gear to life in a way that is both visually stunning and technically impressive.

Innovative Gameplay

Guilty Gear Xrd: Sign not only impresses with its visuals but also with its innovative gameplay mechanics. The game introduces a new “Roman Cancel” system that allows players to cancel special moves into other special moves, creating endless possibilities for combos and strategic play. Additionally, the game features a unique “Overdrive” system that grants players access to powerful new abilities, adding another layer of depth and excitement to the combat.

A Gripping Storyline

In addition to its stunning visuals and innovative gameplay, Guilty Gear Xrd: Sign also boasts a compelling storyline that draws players into the intricate world of the series. Set two years after the events of Guilty Gear 2: Overture, the game follows the journey of Sol Badguy, Ky Kiske, and a cast of colorful characters as they navigate a world on the brink of chaos. The story is told through beautifully animated cutscenes and dialogue sequences that seamlessly blend with the high-octane action.

Characters and Gameplay

Guilty Gear Xrd: Sign features a diverse roster of 16 playable characters, each with their own unique fighting style and special abilities. From the iconic Sol Badguy, a bounty hunter with a fiery blade, to the enigmatic Elphelt Valentine, a vampiress with a tragic past, there is a character to suit every playstyle. The game’s combat system is deep and rewarding, offering a wide range of options for both casual and competitive players.

Critical Acclaim and Legacy

Upon its release, Guilty Gear Xrd: Sign was met with widespread critical acclaim, earning praise for its stunning visuals, innovative gameplay, and engaging storyline. The game was nominated for numerous awards, including “Best Fighting Game” at The Game Awards 2014, and has become a benchmark for 2D fighting games.

The success of Guilty Gear Xrd: Sign led to the development of a sequel, Guilty Gear Xrd: Revelator, which expanded upon the core gameplay and introduced new characters and story elements. The game also spawned a spin-off title, Guilty Gear -Strive-, which was released in 2021 and introduced a new 3D fighting engine.

Conclusion

Guilty Gear Xrd: Sign is a masterpiece of the fighting game genre, combining stunning visuals, innovative gameplay, and a gripping storyline to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a seasoned Guilty Gear veteran or a newcomer to the series, this title is an absolute must-play. With its vibrant world, diverse cast of characters, and endless possibilities for strategic combat, Guilty Gear Xrd: Sign will keep you hooked for countless hours.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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