Andrew M. Brown
Dragon Ball Sparking! ZERO delivers a massive 182-character roster that spans all eras of Dragon Ball but lacks representation from the original Dragon Ball series and certain fan-favorite characters. While the What-If story paths add intrigue, the overall story mode feels lackluster, skipping content from Dragon Ball GT and the movies, However, the game shines with its custom battles, in-depth combat system, and returning fan-favorite features like Chi-Chi's encyclopedia. This game, as a whole, makes for a fun, nostalgic experience for new and old Dragon Ball fans.
The Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics delivers long-awaited, arcade-perfect ports of beloved titles like X-Men Children of the Atom and Marvel vs. Capcom 2, complete with modern enhancements. The revamped training modes, including features like Attack Data and HitBox Viewer, make it easier for new players to learn and master the fighting games. The online experience benefits from rollback netcode, though matchmaking issues remain. Overall, the collection shines with accessibility options, quality-of-life features, and a nostalgic museum mode, making it a must-have for both casual and competitive players.
This re-release of SNK vs Capcom SVC Chaos adds great flare to the game with well-functioning rollback netcode, plethora of customizable features in the options menu, and a hitbox viewer. However, the base game remains unchanged, keeping its charming presentation, unique roster, and awesome gameplay mechanics, but not fixing its bugs or unbalanced characters. If you like your broken fighting games though, by all means, have at it.
An addiciting side-scrolling action-platformer that gets everything right in terms of presentation, level design, replayability, and gameplay. Despite some key features its missing, there's a lot here to appreciate. It's close to being perfect, so it's a recommendation for anyone interested in the genre!
Tekken 8 is a perfect fighting game that hits almost all the important spots. The story mode is arguably the best in the franchise, having fantastic CGI cutscenes, emotional moments, and cool fights. The combat system is very strategic and forces players to use their resources wisely. If you feel the combat is overwhelming for you, the game has fantastic tutorials and a replay system that helps point out your mistakes. The addition of rollback netcode and crossplay removes any barrier you could get from playing any matches online, easing players' frustrations. If you don't want to play online, however, you have plenty of options at your disposal, such as arcade mode, Tekken Ball, and much more. Lastly, even if you are colorblind, Tekken 8 still wants you in on the action with its amazing accessibility settings. This Tekken is not just a Tekken for fans but for everyone.
UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes is a fantastic fighting game that blends intricate storytelling with a complex yet rewarding combat system. It's standout features include a unique “take-control” replay system, comprehensive training tools for newcomers, and extensive character customization options. While the game’s ambitious narrative may challenge new players, it's overall presentation, immersive gameplay, and thoughtful design make it an exceptional choice for both new and veteran players of fighting games!
The release of The King of Fighters XIII: Global Match breathes new life into a classic fighting game with impressive visuals and rollback netcode. This is a comprehensive KOF experience that celebrates the franchise and the unique SNK tradition of bringing characters together for a fun and vivid fighting game.
Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising is an awesome game! It has everything GBVS and fighting game players have been asking for. It has a great story, a huge amount of fun online/offline content, a fantastic online experience with rollback netcode, and excellent presentation. While the RPG mode lacks the gameplay depth the original GBVS used to have, and the replay system does not make innovations, this is a great step in the right direction. If you are looking for a terrific fighting game experience, Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising is the one for you!
Despite having a story that beats around the bush, One Piece Odyssey has a lot to offer. With an arduous combat system and engaging equipment system, this game tries to bring new flavors to the RPG genre. We highly recommend JRPG players try One Piece Odyssey, or else you'll be missing out.