Fighting
Tekken Tag Tournament
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2000
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
The "King of Iron Fist Tournament 3" is over, but the fighting is far from finished. The combatants from Tekkens past are itching to rumble, so much so that they're pairing off and traveling the world to take each other on, all in an insatiable quest for knuckle sandwiches, Wind Godfists, and proof of kung-fu superiority in the Tekken Tag Tournament.
The Tekken storyline is vast and complicated, with a focus on the soap-opera tribulations of the profoundly screwed-up Mishima family (which makes the plot a little like Dallas with martial arts). Tekken Tag Tournament exists outside of the true "Tekken canon," however. Rather, it is a conglomeration of the previous games, with every fighter that has appeared in the Tekken series (though Gon and Dr. B, present in the PlayStation's Tekken 3, are absent here), regardless of whether they are alive, dead, or far too old to compete according to previously establishedTekken legends.
But who needs a storyline, anyway? This is a fighting game, first and foremost. The Tekken series was one of the first 3D polygonal fighters, second only to Sega's Virtua Fighter, and although its gameplay has been refined, it remains operationally consistent. Tekken Tag is built on a modified version of the Tekken 3 engine, with the most noticeable difference being the aforementioned tag feature, which was clearly inspired by the Capcom "Vs." series. Players select two characters from a cast of 34, and then fight it out in various exotic locales, be it on the beach, by a Buddhist temple, or even in the dark, grimy streets of a modern metropolis.
Tekken Tag Tournament was a U.S. launch title for the PS2, and received a considerable facelift from the arcade version, which was created using Namco's System 12 board, the same architecture from the four-year-old Tekken 3. Characters and stages have been re-rendered and updated, to take advantage of the PS2's abilities. The game even received extra tweaking between the Japanese and U.S. markets, as Namco responded to claims that the game was too "jaggy" by implementing anti-aliasing features. The music has also been remixed and altered from its arcade counterpart.
Gameplay is similar in function to Tekken 3, and there are still a wide variety of moves and fighting styles available. One of Tekken's strengths is in giving new players enough simplicity to enjoy the game, while still providing enough depth to satisfy practiced "Tekken Masters." Control is based on a four-button scheme, in which each of the buttons works as one of the fighter's limbs (now a fifth button, for tagging, has been added to the mix). Successful fighting demands speed, combos, and the art of "juggles" -- attacks made while the opponent is in the air, rendering the ability to block or reverse them impossible. Add to that chain throws, side-stepping, reversals (some universal, some limb-specific), and even reverse-reversals (known as "chickens"), and you have the Tekken fighting engine.
The tag feature has been implemented with the hopes of giving the game more depth while still remaining true to its frenetic pacing. Players tap on the tag button to bring fighters in or out and, unlike the "Vs." series, once either player loses an entire life bar, the round is over. Characters sitting on the sideline slowly gain back energy, however, and if they're kept out long enough they'll come back into the fight with the ability to inflict a bit more damage, for a limited amount of time.
As is its tradition, Namco adds a heap of additional modes for this home conversion of Tekken Tag. There's "Arcade Mode," a straight-up, eight-match game; "Vs. Battle Mode," suited for two to four players fighting amongst themselves; "Survival Mode," where players must run through as many matches as they can until their life expires; "Time Attack Mode," a race to get through the Arcade Mode in the shortest amount of time; "Team Battle Mode," where players pick from four to eight characters and duke it out; and "1 on 1 Mode," another U.S.-exclusive, which returns the traditional (non-tag) style of the previous Tekken games.
Add in a "Practice Mode," where players can hone their skills; a "Pair Play Mode," where players can use a Multitap to get a little four-way brawling on; and "Tekken Bowl," a bowling mini-game, and it becomes clear Tekken Tag's cup runneth, over in terms of game modes and option. There are also "Theater" and "Gallery Modes," where one can view the rendered endings, or save and view gameplay screenshots. ~ Jon Thompson, All Game Guide
The Tekken storyline is vast and complicated, with a focus on the soap-opera tribulations of the profoundly screwed-up Mishima family (which makes the plot a little like Dallas with martial arts). Tekken Tag Tournament exists outside of the true "Tekken canon," however. Rather, it is a conglomeration of the previous games, with every fighter that has appeared in the Tekken series (though Gon and Dr. B, present in the PlayStation's Tekken 3, are absent here), regardless of whether they are alive, dead, or far too old to compete according to previously establishedTekken legends.
But who needs a storyline, anyway? This is a fighting game, first and foremost. The Tekken series was one of the first 3D polygonal fighters, second only to Sega's Virtua Fighter, and although its gameplay has been refined, it remains operationally consistent. Tekken Tag is built on a modified version of the Tekken 3 engine, with the most noticeable difference being the aforementioned tag feature, which was clearly inspired by the Capcom "Vs." series. Players select two characters from a cast of 34, and then fight it out in various exotic locales, be it on the beach, by a Buddhist temple, or even in the dark, grimy streets of a modern metropolis.
Tekken Tag Tournament was a U.S. launch title for the PS2, and received a considerable facelift from the arcade version, which was created using Namco's System 12 board, the same architecture from the four-year-old Tekken 3. Characters and stages have been re-rendered and updated, to take advantage of the PS2's abilities. The game even received extra tweaking between the Japanese and U.S. markets, as Namco responded to claims that the game was too "jaggy" by implementing anti-aliasing features. The music has also been remixed and altered from its arcade counterpart.
Gameplay is similar in function to Tekken 3, and there are still a wide variety of moves and fighting styles available. One of Tekken's strengths is in giving new players enough simplicity to enjoy the game, while still providing enough depth to satisfy practiced "Tekken Masters." Control is based on a four-button scheme, in which each of the buttons works as one of the fighter's limbs (now a fifth button, for tagging, has been added to the mix). Successful fighting demands speed, combos, and the art of "juggles" -- attacks made while the opponent is in the air, rendering the ability to block or reverse them impossible. Add to that chain throws, side-stepping, reversals (some universal, some limb-specific), and even reverse-reversals (known as "chickens"), and you have the Tekken fighting engine.
The tag feature has been implemented with the hopes of giving the game more depth while still remaining true to its frenetic pacing. Players tap on the tag button to bring fighters in or out and, unlike the "Vs." series, once either player loses an entire life bar, the round is over. Characters sitting on the sideline slowly gain back energy, however, and if they're kept out long enough they'll come back into the fight with the ability to inflict a bit more damage, for a limited amount of time.
As is its tradition, Namco adds a heap of additional modes for this home conversion of Tekken Tag. There's "Arcade Mode," a straight-up, eight-match game; "Vs. Battle Mode," suited for two to four players fighting amongst themselves; "Survival Mode," where players must run through as many matches as they can until their life expires; "Time Attack Mode," a race to get through the Arcade Mode in the shortest amount of time; "Team Battle Mode," where players pick from four to eight characters and duke it out; and "1 on 1 Mode," another U.S.-exclusive, which returns the traditional (non-tag) style of the previous Tekken games.
Add in a "Practice Mode," where players can hone their skills; a "Pair Play Mode," where players can use a Multitap to get a little four-way brawling on; and "Tekken Bowl," a bowling mini-game, and it becomes clear Tekken Tag's cup runneth, over in terms of game modes and option. There are also "Theater" and "Gallery Modes," where one can view the rendered endings, or save and view gameplay screenshots. ~ Jon Thompson, All Game Guide
Tekken 4
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2002
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Namco's 3D fighting series makes its second appearance on PlayStation 2 with an arcade port offering enhancements designed specifically for home use. Over 20 characters are featured in Tekken 4, four of which are new to the franchise, each playable in nine game modes: Story Battle, Arcade, Time Attack, Vs. Battle, Team Battle, Survival, Practice, Training, and Tekken Force. As in previous titles in the series, the object is to win a specific number of rounds by reducing an opponent's health meter to zero. This is accomplished by using a variety of punches, jumps, kicks, parries, throws, and special moves -- all of which can be linked to form up to ten-hit combos.
The stages in Tekken 4 are more interactive than in versions past, with some featuring breakable objects, such as pillars that will cause extra damage if an opponent is thrown against them. Environments incorporate walls as well, which can also be used to harm opponents if they are cornered. Defensive minded players can implement position changes, perform two methods of guards, sidestep into the foreground or background, evade throws, and recover from being slammed into a wall. Each environment has also been designed with multiple levels of elevation, which can affect a character's follow-up attacks. The advantage is given to players fighting on lower ground.
Story Battle follows a specific narrative for each character in the eight opponents he or she will face. The mode begins and ends with a CGI cinema of the selected character, designed to explain his or her motivations for fighting. Arcade Mode has players trying to defeat all remaining characters in the game, while Time Attack consists of eight consecutive fights as players attempt to establish a record time. Vs. Battle is the two-player mode, where friends can select the stage, fighters, and possible handicaps. Team Battle lets players create teams of up to eight characters per side before entering series of one-on-one fights using an elimination format.
Survival is an endurance test to see how many computer opponents can be defeated before players run out of health. Practice consists of learning a specific character's moves, while Training involves rapidly inputting a series of commands in an attempt to develop a player's speed at performing attacks. Tekken Force is played like a 3D beat-'em-up. Players fight multiple thugs while advancing through different levels from a view positioned behind the character. The object is to defeat all enemies within an area, including a boss, before time expires. Tekken 4 supports PlayStation 2's progressive mode (525p) for those owning both a component video cable and a compatible television. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
The stages in Tekken 4 are more interactive than in versions past, with some featuring breakable objects, such as pillars that will cause extra damage if an opponent is thrown against them. Environments incorporate walls as well, which can also be used to harm opponents if they are cornered. Defensive minded players can implement position changes, perform two methods of guards, sidestep into the foreground or background, evade throws, and recover from being slammed into a wall. Each environment has also been designed with multiple levels of elevation, which can affect a character's follow-up attacks. The advantage is given to players fighting on lower ground.
Story Battle follows a specific narrative for each character in the eight opponents he or she will face. The mode begins and ends with a CGI cinema of the selected character, designed to explain his or her motivations for fighting. Arcade Mode has players trying to defeat all remaining characters in the game, while Time Attack consists of eight consecutive fights as players attempt to establish a record time. Vs. Battle is the two-player mode, where friends can select the stage, fighters, and possible handicaps. Team Battle lets players create teams of up to eight characters per side before entering series of one-on-one fights using an elimination format.
Survival is an endurance test to see how many computer opponents can be defeated before players run out of health. Practice consists of learning a specific character's moves, while Training involves rapidly inputting a series of commands in an attempt to develop a player's speed at performing attacks. Tekken Force is played like a 3D beat-'em-up. Players fight multiple thugs while advancing through different levels from a view positioned behind the character. The object is to defeat all enemies within an area, including a boss, before time expires. Tekken 4 supports PlayStation 2's progressive mode (525p) for those owning both a component video cable and a compatible television. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Dragon Ball Z: Budokai
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2002
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Perhaps the most popular Japanese television series in the United States at the time of release, Dragon Ball Z hits the PlayStation 2 in this 3D brawler. Just as in the anime TV show, fighting is the focus of this PS2 game. The main Story mode allows players to battle through crucial moments from theDragon Ball Z Saiyan, Namekian, and Andriod sagas, through to the Cell Games, learning new skills and upgrading their characters along the way. Other modes allow players to enter customized battles with their improved characters, to edit their characters' acquired skills, and to go head-to-head against other human-controlled fighters.
The game features seven different modes of play in all (one for each Dragon Ball), but some of the later modes must be unlocked. Nearly two dozen characters from the television series are playable in the game, each with as many as 60 combo moves. Goku, Gohan, Piccolo, Vegeta, Frieza, Krillin -- all the major players are featured. Designed to please the countless avid fans of the Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z animated shows, the game's character voices are also accurate, provided by the original FUNimation actors from the series. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
The game features seven different modes of play in all (one for each Dragon Ball), but some of the later modes must be unlocked. Nearly two dozen characters from the television series are playable in the game, each with as many as 60 combo moves. Goku, Gohan, Piccolo, Vegeta, Frieza, Krillin -- all the major players are featured. Designed to please the countless avid fans of the Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z animated shows, the game's character voices are also accurate, provided by the original FUNimation actors from the series. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Virtua Fighter 4: Evolution
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2003
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Virtua Fighter 4: Evolution renovates AM2's prominent 3D fighting game with a number of presentational and gameplay improvements. While retaining the acclaimed depth, balance, and flexibility of the 2002 PS2 hit, this revisit adds new game modes, new challenges, and two new characters, as well as overall enhancements to the graphics and audio.
Many of this version's new modes and features expand upon concepts introduced in VF4's innovative Kumite mode. Evolution offers single-player quests in two different arenas. The World West competitions present a series of opponents of varying ranks and AI fighting styles, and function like an expanded version of the original game's Kumite.
The Event Arena presents five different tournaments, each altering the basic fighting rules in some way. One tournament features single-round battles in which the damage per attack is reduced, while another speeds up the intricate action to an almost button-mashing pace.
A pair of new fighters join the original VF4's cast of 13. Goh Hinogami uses his own combination of fighting styles, and is especially proficient at ground attacks and reversals. The brooding Brad Burns plies kickboxing prowess against all challengers. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Many of this version's new modes and features expand upon concepts introduced in VF4's innovative Kumite mode. Evolution offers single-player quests in two different arenas. The World West competitions present a series of opponents of varying ranks and AI fighting styles, and function like an expanded version of the original game's Kumite.
The Event Arena presents five different tournaments, each altering the basic fighting rules in some way. One tournament features single-round battles in which the damage per attack is reduced, while another speeds up the intricate action to an almost button-mashing pace.
A pair of new fighters join the original VF4's cast of 13. Goh Hinogami uses his own combination of fighting styles, and is especially proficient at ground attacks and reversals. The brooding Brad Burns plies kickboxing prowess against all challengers. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Fight Club
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2004
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Fight Club is a 3D combat adventure built on lots of one-on-one, hand-to-hand, no-holds-barred fighting matches. Players are led through a violent storyline based on David Fincher's popular 1999 film. They can design and play as their own Fight Club characters, and choose from three authentically designed street fighting styles: brawler, grappler, or martial artist. Characters featured from the film include Jack and Tyler, Ricky, Bob, Lou, and even the unlucky/lucky convenience store clerk, "Raymond K. Hessel." Combatants display the damage they're dealt in real-time, through blood and bruises that appear on their bodies. Toward the end of a match, when an opponent is almost defeated, an icon appears onscreen to let players know that bones could be broken and a dramatic victory assured. But really, we're not sure we're supposed to be talking about this.... ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Mortal Kombat: Deception
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2004
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Building upon 2002's Deadly Alliance, the series' well-received leap to the 128-bit 3D arena, Mortal Kombat: Deception demonstrates the same depth in design and focus on the home console experience. The game offers five main modes of play, some of which will be familiar to fans of Deadly Alliance. The arcade-style Kombat mode has players fighting their way up a ladder of matches against increasingly difficult opponents, and Konquest leads them through role-playing styled character development in a story-lined adventure full of fights and other events. Also available are Kombat Chess, which lets players choose a team of fighters and challenges them to select matches strategically, and Puzzle Kombat, a color-matching action puzzle reminiscent of Capcom's Super Puzzle Fighter, featuring cute, anime styled versions of the game's otherwise dark and daunting kombatants. Mortal Kombat: Deception is also one of the first 3D fighting games to offer an online multiplayer mode. Broadband-connected gamers with the PlayStation 2 Network Adapter can simply log on to find a match against a human opponent.
There are a dozen Mortal Kombat fighters selectable at the start of the game, including both old favorites and mysterious newcomers. Longtime fans of the series will recognize veterans of the earliest Mortal Kombat games, such as Sub-Zero and Scorpion, Kabal, Baraka, Mileena, Ermac, and Nightwolf, who are joined by relative newcomers like Bo'Rai Cho, who debuted in Deadly Alliance. Deception also introduces four new fighters, Ashrah, Dairou, Darrius, and Kobra, each with a distinctly new fighting style intended to balance the deadly abilities of the other characters. At least a dozen more characters can be unlocked through the course of the game, by spending "Koins" to open the correct "koffins" in the "Krypt," or by completing certain key challenges in the Konquest adventure mode. In addition to its character selection, Mortal Kombat: Deception draws on the series' storied roots in other ways; development of the game was lead by Ed Boon, co-creator of the original Mortal Kombat.
Although Deception's fighting mechanics are also based on those of Deadly Alliance, a number of enhancements, adjustments, and embellishments have been made. In some instances, the gameplay may have a slightly more intense, exaggerated feel that rewards those who master the complex combo system. Characters can still take different stances, however, and can choose to fight unarmed or with a weapon. Deception features "Fight State Indicators" on the ends of the characters' health bars that make it a little easer for players to anticipate particular dangers and time their special attacks. While it may seem these indicators would take the challenge down a notch, their addition is actually quite opportune, since Deception also adds a diverse selection of interactive arenas, many with instant-kill "death trap" elements, as well as two fatalities for each and every character -- answering the most common complaints that fans had of Deadly Alliance. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
There are a dozen Mortal Kombat fighters selectable at the start of the game, including both old favorites and mysterious newcomers. Longtime fans of the series will recognize veterans of the earliest Mortal Kombat games, such as Sub-Zero and Scorpion, Kabal, Baraka, Mileena, Ermac, and Nightwolf, who are joined by relative newcomers like Bo'Rai Cho, who debuted in Deadly Alliance. Deception also introduces four new fighters, Ashrah, Dairou, Darrius, and Kobra, each with a distinctly new fighting style intended to balance the deadly abilities of the other characters. At least a dozen more characters can be unlocked through the course of the game, by spending "Koins" to open the correct "koffins" in the "Krypt," or by completing certain key challenges in the Konquest adventure mode. In addition to its character selection, Mortal Kombat: Deception draws on the series' storied roots in other ways; development of the game was lead by Ed Boon, co-creator of the original Mortal Kombat.
Although Deception's fighting mechanics are also based on those of Deadly Alliance, a number of enhancements, adjustments, and embellishments have been made. In some instances, the gameplay may have a slightly more intense, exaggerated feel that rewards those who master the complex combo system. Characters can still take different stances, however, and can choose to fight unarmed or with a weapon. Deception features "Fight State Indicators" on the ends of the characters' health bars that make it a little easer for players to anticipate particular dangers and time their special attacks. While it may seem these indicators would take the challenge down a notch, their addition is actually quite opportune, since Deception also adds a diverse selection of interactive arenas, many with instant-kill "death trap" elements, as well as two fatalities for each and every character -- answering the most common complaints that fans had of Deadly Alliance. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2005
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Combining the traditional fighting game style of the fan-favorite Dragon Ball Z: Budokai series with the freely-roamed environments of Dragon Ball Z: Sagas, Budokai Tenkaichi offers a beat-'em-up adventure set in the world of the popular anime television series. As in the show, battles can take place on the ground or high in the sky, between supernaturally gifted heroes and villains. The game features over 60 playable characters in all, more than any previous Dragon Ball Z release. Modes of play include a single-player "Dragon" story mode and a two-player "Versus" mode, as well as "Battle," "Dragon Capsule," "Evolution Z," and "World Martial Arts Tournament." ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Street Fighter Alpha 3 MAX
- Platform:
- PSP
- Release Date:
- 2006
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
The most extensive edition of the Street Fighter Alpha series is revamped for this PlayStation Portable game. While the basic 2D fighting of earlier Street Fighter games remained the centerpiece, the original Alpha titles introduced new characters, and incorporated new speed ("turbo") and stance ("-ism") options, and The King of Fighters-styled three-on-three battles to deepen gameplay.
This PSP edition is based on Street Fighter Alpha 3, the most expansive game in the late-'90s sub-series, but adds additional, "new for 2006" content and options of its own. Along with the more than 30 characters of the original, Street Fighter Alpha 3 MAX features another four, who join the competition from related brawlers such as Capcom Vs. SNK 2. This PSP game is also enhanced by a number of new multiplayer modes, made possible by the handheld's wireless communication capabilities. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
This PSP edition is based on Street Fighter Alpha 3, the most expansive game in the late-'90s sub-series, but adds additional, "new for 2006" content and options of its own. Along with the more than 30 characters of the original, Street Fighter Alpha 3 MAX features another four, who join the competition from related brawlers such as Capcom Vs. SNK 2. This PSP game is also enhanced by a number of new multiplayer modes, made possible by the handheld's wireless communication capabilities. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Power Stone Collection
- Platform:
- PSP
- Release Date:
- 2006
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Originally released for the Sega Dreamcast and arcade, Power Stone and Power Stone 2 are bundled neatly into the Power Stone Collection for PlayStation Portable. Both games involve 3D fighting, consisting mainly of punches and kicks, but players can also collect power stones to turn their characters into super fighters who cause more damage than their counterpart. Power Stone features an "Arcade" mode for single players that includes unlimited continues and such bonuses as weapons, characters, galleries, additional modes, and more. "Versus" mode allows up to two competitors to duke it out with one of 15 available characters.
Power Stone 2 features a variety of single-player options and multiplayer action with the inclusion four-player combat in multi-tiered levels. Modes of play include a single-player "Adventure" that allows solo gamers to fight enemies for items and gold to use in other areas of the game. "Basic" is another single-player game that includes unlimited continues and matches that lead to a final boss battle. The final single-player option is "Arcade," which pits gamers against three competitors at a time. "Original" mode allows up to four friends to duke it out in one-on-three, two-vs-two, or tag team tussles by using a wireless connection. The game also includes a mini-game in which players must defeat their opponents while the level is blasted with falling bombs. Both games feature a training arena and "Screenshot" mode. ~ Gracie Leach, All Game Guide
Power Stone 2 features a variety of single-player options and multiplayer action with the inclusion four-player combat in multi-tiered levels. Modes of play include a single-player "Adventure" that allows solo gamers to fight enemies for items and gold to use in other areas of the game. "Basic" is another single-player game that includes unlimited continues and matches that lead to a final boss battle. The final single-player option is "Arcade," which pits gamers against three competitors at a time. "Original" mode allows up to four friends to duke it out in one-on-three, two-vs-two, or tag team tussles by using a wireless connection. The game also includes a mini-game in which players must defeat their opponents while the level is blasted with falling bombs. Both games feature a training arena and "Screenshot" mode. ~ Gracie Leach, All Game Guide
Tekken: Dark Resurrection
- Platform:
- PSP
- Release Date:
- 2006
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Making its debut on the PSP, Tekken: Dark Resurrection features two returning characters (Lili and Dragunov), an Ad-hoc mode for up to eight players, the return of the Armor King, 19 stages, new modes, more than 30 customizable characters, and money to spend on costumes, armor, weaponry, and other items.
The game features four modes of play -- "Arcade Battle," "Team Battle," "Quick Battle," and "Story Battle" -- and multiplayer options include three attack modes. "Time Attack," "Survival," and "Gold Rush" pit player against player in a fight for supreme thumb skill supremacy.
As usual, a "Practice" mode gives gamers a chance to test their skills before entering the ring. "Story Battle" includes background information on each character as players fight for the title of "Tekken Lord" through a series of dojos based on a private island owned by Mishima Zaibatsu. ~ Gracie Leach, All Game Guide
The game features four modes of play -- "Arcade Battle," "Team Battle," "Quick Battle," and "Story Battle" -- and multiplayer options include three attack modes. "Time Attack," "Survival," and "Gold Rush" pit player against player in a fight for supreme thumb skill supremacy.
As usual, a "Practice" mode gives gamers a chance to test their skills before entering the ring. "Story Battle" includes background information on each character as players fight for the title of "Tekken Lord" through a series of dojos based on a private island owned by Mishima Zaibatsu. ~ Gracie Leach, All Game Guide
Mortal Kombat: Armageddon
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2006
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
The fighting genre's poster (whipping?) boy for gruesome violence makes its final appearance on PlayStation 2 before moving in a new direction for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. Mortal Kombat: Armageddon is thus a hostile homage to its frenzied fans, a love letter of sorts that tears away the heart-tugging sentiment for the still-beating heart. Armageddon offers the most significant throng of Mortal Kombat fighters thus far, with a roster spanning 62 combatants -- every minor and major character that has appeared in the series to date. The entire cast is also immediately playable from the opening screen.
The "Konquest Mode" introduced in 2004's Mortal Kombat: Deception returns with faster-paced action, two new boss characters, and a seamless blend of one-on-one and group encounters through an estimated six hours of story-driven action. While the core 3D fighting engine is similar to 2004's entry, the fatality system now allows players to create custom finishing moves. Players can also design their own fighter with an assortment of body parts, weapons, clothing options, and fighting styles to choose from. Each new combatant can challenge others online in a tournament or a single match.
Perhaps the most amusing addition for longtime fans is the debut of "Motor Kombat," a racing mini-game patterned after Nintendo's Mario Kart. Motor Kombat has players selecting a vehicle from the following ten characters: Sub-Zero, Bo' Rai Cho, Scorpion, Mileena, Kitana, Johnny Cage, Jax, Cyrax, Baraka, and Raiden. Each super-deformed driver performs his or her trademark move on rivals, from Raiden's electricity to Scorpion's spear attack. The themed courses also feature hazards of their own, including lava pools, spikes, fire, and more. Motor Kombat supports four players in a split-screen view, or up to eight online. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
The "Konquest Mode" introduced in 2004's Mortal Kombat: Deception returns with faster-paced action, two new boss characters, and a seamless blend of one-on-one and group encounters through an estimated six hours of story-driven action. While the core 3D fighting engine is similar to 2004's entry, the fatality system now allows players to create custom finishing moves. Players can also design their own fighter with an assortment of body parts, weapons, clothing options, and fighting styles to choose from. Each new combatant can challenge others online in a tournament or a single match.
Perhaps the most amusing addition for longtime fans is the debut of "Motor Kombat," a racing mini-game patterned after Nintendo's Mario Kart. Motor Kombat has players selecting a vehicle from the following ten characters: Sub-Zero, Bo' Rai Cho, Scorpion, Mileena, Kitana, Johnny Cage, Jax, Cyrax, Baraka, and Raiden. Each super-deformed driver performs his or her trademark move on rivals, from Raiden's electricity to Scorpion's spear attack. The themed courses also feature hazards of their own, including lava pools, spikes, fire, and more. Motor Kombat supports four players in a split-screen view, or up to eight online. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
The King of Fighters 2006
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2006
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
As the second edition of SNK's 3D conversion, The King of Fighters 2006 includes more than 20 characters, including returning brawlers Kula Diamond and Billy Kane. When fighting, players will have the option to use a form of combo that will evolve a character's technique called "Stylish Moves," and two new moves have been added to the game. "Counterstrike" will parry an opponents attack, and "Super Cancel" will cancel an enemies assault and launch the player's own move. The game includes a specific ending for each character and bonus games designed to extend game play. Backgrounds in The King of Fighters 2006 feature NEOGEO land, and players may listen to dialogue in English or Japanese. ~ Gracie Leach, All Game Guide
Super Smash Bros. Brawl
- Platform:
- Wii
- Release Date:
- 2008
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
One of Nintendo's most anticipated games for 2008, Super Smash Bros. Brawl continues the mascot-mauling series that began in 1998 on Nintendo 64. As in the two previous installments, players will choose from an assortment of major and minor characters from the publisher's prolific past, including such stalwarts as Mario, Pikachu, Link, and Samus. New to Super Smash Bros. Brawl is the inclusion of cross-platform stars Sonic the Hedgehog and Solid Snake, as well as such "slighted" characters as Wario, Diddy Kong, and Pit of Kid Icarus fame. Characters will engage in hand-to-hand or projectile-based combat within multi-tiered environments based on iconic locales. Yoshi's Island, Delfino Plaza, and WarioWare are but a few of the featured stages, each offering built-in hazards and a number of surprise twists.
One of the game's distinguishing features is its offbeat item list, which has now expanded to include the likes of smoke balls, cracker launchers, and one deadly dinner: super spicy curry. As characters progress through the game's several play formats, including a new side-scrolling Adventure Mode, they can take snapshots, win trophies, and even collect stickers to store in an album. Four controller options are available, and players can once again set up dream matches and tournaments by customizing an assortment of minute details. Some of the industry's most respected composers have contributed to the eclectic soundtrack, which features rearranged theme songs and bonus tunes unlocked by collecting CDs throughout the course of play. Yet the most compelling feature for longtime fans is the inclusion of four-player online support for global competition. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
One of the game's distinguishing features is its offbeat item list, which has now expanded to include the likes of smoke balls, cracker launchers, and one deadly dinner: super spicy curry. As characters progress through the game's several play formats, including a new side-scrolling Adventure Mode, they can take snapshots, win trophies, and even collect stickers to store in an album. Four controller options are available, and players can once again set up dream matches and tournaments by customizing an assortment of minute details. Some of the industry's most respected composers have contributed to the eclectic soundtrack, which features rearranged theme songs and bonus tunes unlocked by collecting CDs throughout the course of play. Yet the most compelling feature for longtime fans is the inclusion of four-player online support for global competition. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Tekken 6
- Platform:
- PlayStation 3
- Release Date:
- 2009
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Namco's hand-to-hand fighting game series debuts on high-definition consoles with enhanced graphics, destructible environments, online features, and the series' largest character roster to date. The "King of Iron Fist Tournament" brings 40 contenders into the fray this time around, with mainstays such as Jin, King, Anna, Law, Phoenix, and Heihachi, as well as six newcomers, including the jet-pack enabled Alisa Bosconovitch, the veteran warrior Lars Alexandersson, and the obese but impossibly quick American karate champion known as Bob. The series' fan-familiar match types and battle modes are included, although some have been revamped. In the storyline-driven "Scenario Campaign" mode, similar to the "Tekken Force" mode featured in earlier editions of the game, a chosen character battles through set piece areas, fighting numerous enemies to progress.
Online functionality is fundamental in Tekken 6. Players can join matches against others over the console network, or fight alongside a human-controlled ally in a co-op campaign mode (which becomes available in a free, downloadable patch). "Ghost" characters can be trained to fight in a gamer's personal fighting style, and then sparred against to reveal strengths and weaknesses, or shared and traded online to provide a customized challenge to other players. Worldwide and regional leaderboards track rankings and top performances in all main game modes. The series' new PS3 and Xbox 360 graphics feature character models and animations of unprecedented quality, as well as enrichments such as special lighting and depth-of-field effects, all in sharp, HD detail. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Online functionality is fundamental in Tekken 6. Players can join matches against others over the console network, or fight alongside a human-controlled ally in a co-op campaign mode (which becomes available in a free, downloadable patch). "Ghost" characters can be trained to fight in a gamer's personal fighting style, and then sparred against to reveal strengths and weaknesses, or shared and traded online to provide a customized challenge to other players. Worldwide and regional leaderboards track rankings and top performances in all main game modes. The series' new PS3 and Xbox 360 graphics feature character models and animations of unprecedented quality, as well as enrichments such as special lighting and depth-of-field effects, all in sharp, HD detail. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide
Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2006
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Aerial acrobatics and frenzied fisticuffs return to PlayStation 2 in this 3D fighting follow-up to 2005's Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi. Included are 120 Dragon Ball Z characters, both heroes and villains, with several making their video game debut. Among the improvements to the original are a revamped camera system, real-time transformations while in battle, and environmental damage within each of the game's 16 free-roaming stages. The fighting engine once again encompasses flight-based, ranged, and melee attacks in a choice of nine game modes. Players can create their dream match-ups from the animated series or embark on a story-driven, single-player campaign complete with missions, mini-games, side quests, boss encounters, and the ability to customize characters. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Legend of the Dragon
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2007
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Based on the television series, Legend of the Dragon is the story of two twins, Ling and Ang, who are torn between good and evil by jealousy, anger, and fate. As the best fighter in the Dragon Dojo, Ling prepares herself to become the next Golden Dragon, but is severely disappointed when her brother, Ang is chosen instead. Consumed by raging fury, Ling is easily persuaded to join with the evil Zodiac Master. She changes her name to Shadow Dragon and vows revenge as she tries to collect and control the 12 Zodiac bracelets.
To gain possession of the armlets, one must visit each of the guarded temples housing the magic jewelry and defeat the guardian waiting there. Each bracelet features an image also found in the Ancient Chinese Zodiac, and whoever holds the bangles acquires the power to transform into the animal engraved on each manacle. Legend of the Dragon features eight modes of play and three multiplayer options, including "PlayQuest," "Arcade," "Training," "Survival," and more. Each of the 24 playable characters has a unique fighting technique, and they all can find collectibles and power-ups throughout their journeys. ~ Gracie Leach, All Game Guide
To gain possession of the armlets, one must visit each of the guarded temples housing the magic jewelry and defeat the guardian waiting there. Each bracelet features an image also found in the Ancient Chinese Zodiac, and whoever holds the bangles acquires the power to transform into the animal engraved on each manacle. Legend of the Dragon features eight modes of play and three multiplayer options, including "PlayQuest," "Arcade," "Training," "Survival," and more. Each of the 24 playable characters has a unique fighting technique, and they all can find collectibles and power-ups throughout their journeys. ~ Gracie Leach, All Game Guide
Legend of the Dragon
- Platform:
- Wii
- Release Date:
- 2007
- Rated:
Based on the animated series from BKN International, Legend of the Dragon is a one-on-one fighting game featuring 18 playable characters and a choice of battle areas set in China. Each combatant possesses distinct fighting styles, special moves, and talents, with the added ability to transform into a creature from the Chinese zodiac. Characters can also cast spells and collect power-ups to enhance their damage output against opponents. The game's visuals closely follow those of the cartoon, with cel-shaded graphics used for both the backgrounds and characters.
The Wii version includes motion-sensing controls for a warrior's attacks, allowing players to punch, kick, jump, and more by slashing, shaking, or thrusting the Wii Remote independently of the Nunchuk attachment, which is used for movement within the 3D environments. After selecting a character, players can compete in a quest mode, arcade mode, training mode, survival mode, or a time attack mode. Three multiplayer options are available as well, with players able to challenge a friend in a versus fight, team battle, or a tag match. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
The Wii version includes motion-sensing controls for a warrior's attacks, allowing players to punch, kick, jump, and more by slashing, shaking, or thrusting the Wii Remote independently of the Nunchuk attachment, which is used for movement within the 3D environments. After selecting a character, players can compete in a quest mode, arcade mode, training mode, survival mode, or a time attack mode. Three multiplayer options are available as well, with players able to challenge a friend in a versus fight, team battle, or a tag match. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Naruto: Clash of Ninja Revolution
- Platform:
- Wii
- Release Date:
- 2007
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Twenty playable characters highlight this fighting game based on the Cartoon Network anime. As in the two Clash of Ninja titles on GameCube, Clash of Ninja Revolution has players guiding a cel-shaded Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura, and other principal characters across eight multi-tiered stages. Play modes include Mission, Score Attack, Time Attack, Versus, and Survival. Up to four players can also battle each other in custom team-based matches or in chaotic free-for-alls. While the Wii Remote and Nunchuk are used to unleash each character's variety of special attacks by default, the game supports both GameCube and Classic controllers as well. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 2
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2007
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 2 invites gamers back into the brawl as they work their way through three modes of play alone or with friends. Following the single-player storyline, gamers lead Naruto through 16 stages of combat located in the woods, on the water, among temple ruins, and on the streets of an Asian city. In each battle players earn cash and experience points. While gamers may spend experience to increase speed, agility, or defense, the cash is spent on voice samples, character models, video clips. Players may also perfect their moves in the "Practice" zone before fighting friends in "Vs." mode with characters including Gara, Kiba, Rock Lee, and Sasake. ~ Gracie Leach, All Game Guide
Art of Fighting Anthology
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2007
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
The Art of Fighting Anthology invites gamers to karate kick their way through Art of Fighting, Art of Fighting 2, and The Path of the Warrior: Art of Fighting 3. Players may select from 33 classic fighters including Ryo, Robert, Mr. Big, Karate, and Lee Pai Long. Single players follow a heroic storyline through a series of one-on-one battles. Two players can fight head-to-head against one another.
Each character in the game has a unique selection of special attacks to use on enemies, and each may call on a "Desperation" attack when seconds away from defeat. The games follow events surrounding the students of the Kyokugenryu Karate Dojo. While the first two games in the series take place in Southtown, the third is set somewhere in Mexico. ~ All Game Guide
Each character in the game has a unique selection of special attacks to use on enemies, and each may call on a "Desperation" attack when seconds away from defeat. The games follow events surrounding the students of the Kyokugenryu Karate Dojo. While the first two games in the series take place in Southtown, the third is set somewhere in Mexico. ~ All Game Guide
Fatal Fury: Battle Archives, Vol. 1
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2007
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
The Fatal Fury series makes its fighting debut on the PS2 with Fatal Fury: Battle Archives, Vol. 1. Gamers can take control of characters that include Billy Kane, Axel Hawk, Jubei Yamada, and Duck King as they step into the ring of Fatal Fury, Fatal Fury 2, Fatal Fury 3, and Fatal Fury Special. ~ Gracie Leach, All Game Guide
Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3
- Platform:
- Wii
- Release Date:
- 2007
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Featuring the largest lineup of characters yet seen in a Dragon Ball Z game, Budokai Tenkaichi 3 includes 161 playable fighters and 30 destructible stages. As in previous games, the visuals feature cel-shaded graphics designed to mirror the popular anime's look. Players can choose from ten game modes as they prepare to battle the AI or a friend with their favorite character's assortment of melee, ranged, and aerial attacks.
One of the biggest new features is the ability to fight on certain stages in the day or at night, allowing certain characters to transform. Also new is the Battle Replay option that revisits the last fight with multiple camera angle choices. Exclusive to the Wii version is Wi-Fi Connection support for online battles and gesture-based controls for both combos and standard attacks. A ranking system is also included for online combatants. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
One of the biggest new features is the ability to fight on certain stages in the day or at night, allowing certain characters to transform. Also new is the Battle Replay option that revisits the last fight with multiple camera angle choices. Exclusive to the Wii version is Wi-Fi Connection support for online battles and gesture-based controls for both combos and standard attacks. A ranking system is also included for online combatants. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3
- Platform:
- PlayStation 2
- Release Date:
- 2007
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Featuring the largest lineup of characters yet seen in a Dragon Ball Z game, Budokai Tenkaichi 3 includes 161 playable fighters and 30 destructible stages. As in previous games, the visuals feature cel-shaded graphics designed to mirror the popular anime's look. Players can choose from ten game modes as they prepare to battle the AI or a friend with their favorite character's assortment of melee, ranged, and aerial attacks.
One of the biggest new features is the ability to fight on certain stages in the day or at night, allowing certain characters to transform. Also new is the Battle Replay option that revisits the last fight with multiple camera angle choices. Exclusive to the PlayStation 2 version is a "Disc Fusion System," where owners of the first two Budokai Tenkaichi games can swap discs and unlock additional play options. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
One of the biggest new features is the ability to fight on certain stages in the day or at night, allowing certain characters to transform. Also new is the Battle Replay option that revisits the last fight with multiple camera angle choices. Exclusive to the PlayStation 2 version is a "Disc Fusion System," where owners of the first two Budokai Tenkaichi games can swap discs and unlock additional play options. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Soul Calibur IV
- Platform:
- XBOX360
- Release Date:
- 2008
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Namco Bandai's weapons-based fighting series makes its high-def debut with Soul Calibur IV. New characters, environments, and play modes highlight this fourth installment of the fast-paced brawler. A special tournament with a mystical prize has drawn combatants from across the galaxy. Familiar fighters from previous Soul Calibur games are joined by several newcomers, including Hilde, Scheherazade, Angol Fear, and even Yoda from the Star Wars universe. Characters will challenge each other in an assortment of exotic locales while mastering new techniques in combat.
The one-on-one fighting system now features critical finishing moves, allowing players to initiate devastating, cinematic coups de grâce to weakened opponents. Characters also wear destructible armor, which can shatter during fights to expose vulnerable areas. Play modes include Story, Arcade, Training, and Active Matching Battle, an endurance-type match that challenges players to defeat as many enemies as possible. Custom fighters can be created and taken online for versus matches, and new equipment and other items can be earned by completing objectives in the mysterious "Tower of Lost Souls." ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
The one-on-one fighting system now features critical finishing moves, allowing players to initiate devastating, cinematic coups de grâce to weakened opponents. Characters also wear destructible armor, which can shatter during fights to expose vulnerable areas. Play modes include Story, Arcade, Training, and Active Matching Battle, an endurance-type match that challenges players to defeat as many enemies as possible. Custom fighters can be created and taken online for versus matches, and new equipment and other items can be earned by completing objectives in the mysterious "Tower of Lost Souls." ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
Soul Calibur IV
- Platform:
- PlayStation 3
- Release Date:
- 2008
- Rated:
- Member Rating:
Namco Bandai's weapons-based fighting series makes its high-def debut with Soul Calibur IV. New characters, environments, and play modes highlight this fourth installment of the fast-paced brawler. A special tournament with a mystical prize has drawn combatants from across the galaxy. Familiar fighters from previous Soul Calibur games are joined by several newcomers, including Hilde, Scheherazade, Angol Fear, and even Darth Vader from the Star Wars universe. Characters will challenge each other in an assortment of exotic locales while mastering new techniques in combat.
The one-on-one fighting system now features critical finishing moves, allowing players to initiate devastating, cinematic coups de grâce to weakened opponents. Characters also wear destructible armor, which can shatter during fights to expose vulnerable areas. Play modes include Story, Arcade, Training, and Active Matching Battle, an endurance-type match that challenges players to defeat as many enemies as possible. Custom fighters can be created and taken online for versus matches, and new equipment and other items can be earned by completing objectives in the mysterious "Tower of Lost Souls." ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
The one-on-one fighting system now features critical finishing moves, allowing players to initiate devastating, cinematic coups de grâce to weakened opponents. Characters also wear destructible armor, which can shatter during fights to expose vulnerable areas. Play modes include Story, Arcade, Training, and Active Matching Battle, an endurance-type match that challenges players to defeat as many enemies as possible. Custom fighters can be created and taken online for versus matches, and new equipment and other items can be earned by completing objectives in the mysterious "Tower of Lost Souls." ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide
