The Greatest 2D fighter that most people will never play. The people at ARC have truly done it again. Get the word out!!
Blazblue comes at you with a control scheme similar to the GG series, but it's also different enough to feel like your learning it all over again. There are new elements and twists to old elements which make this new system a blast. An example would be the barrier defense that is akin to the perfect defense you saw in GGX. This time however, this defense has it's own gauge so you don't have to sacrifice your super gauge (heat gauge in BB) to use it. One of the new elements to the combat system is the drive button which allows you to perform attacks infused with special powers with the push of a button. In the case of Ragna the Bloodedge, his drive allows him to siphon the health from his opponents and use it as his own. Each person has their own unique drive. This allows the player to become immersed in each character, trying to figure out what the drives do and how to best use them according to their own fighting style. Furthermore, the people at ARC also set the game up so that it is readily available to people who don't usually play fighters. The right stick can be used as to perform special moves and super moves with just a flick. Although it may sound "cheap" to veterans, it's really a great way for newbies to feel as though they can keep up with some of the better players around. It also allows people options until they get the hang of the moves themselves.
Now let's discuss visuals; allow me a second to wipe the drool from my face. This game is undoubtedly one of the most, if not THE most beautiful fighters I have ever seen. From the mode select menu to the actual gameplay, everything is done with crisp and stylish visuals. The characters are ridiculously detailed and character movement is just so fluid and seemless. Not to mention the amazing levels that are done in partial 3d which serve as beautiful backdrops for the ensuing chaos. I don't even have an HDTV so for those of you out there that do.... awwww maaaaan is really all I can say.
All in all, Blazblue is a must buy for both fighting fans, GGX fans, and newcomers alike. There are plenty of modes to keep you busy for example, story mode, arcade mode, score attack, and yes NETWORK. You can play this amazing game ONLINE! Also for those of you wondering about the story mode, it is equally amazing. It truly gets you into the story of the Blazblue world and there are varying paths for each character so one run through won't be enough. I am begging all of you: Please pick up Blazblue!!! Since these types of fighters usually have smaller fanbases I'm hoping more people will venture into the 2d for next-gen and pick this one up. This is partially why I wrote this review, so that it could get a little more exposure. Tell EVERYONE with a PS3 or an X360 to GET THIS GAME.
You guys can pick up the limited edition in stores now (heh, while it lasts which won't be for long) or you can wait until July 28th for the regular game. My advice go find it NOW because the Limited Edition is only $59.99!! It'll probably go up once the regular game is released so MOVE IT.