For a long time now Soul Caliber has been one of the best fighting games from Bandai Namco Studios. As far as the new release, Soul Caliber VI, is still probably one of the best fighting games among all others.
While it’s unclear if the main storyline still stands, the game takes place during the first game in the series, the premise of this fighter is to choose your character with dual weapons and go head to head with another character. The level is set with a 3D plane and both players fight during 1-minute rounds until a clear winner is left. Since the game has been long standing in the gaming community, there are few new features, but the features can be both good and bad depending on how deep your loyalty goes.
Some have said that all of the characters wielding two weapons during battle is a “gimmick,” but that is still be determined. Compared to other games that only have characters that use their fists, this new development seems more refreshing than anything. In some ways as well, when a player sits down to fight, they are also thinking over strategy. Each character has their own ultimate ability too, but even without weapons this still may have remained the same.
Along with weapons being a core part of the gameplay now in Soul Caliber VI, the biggest feature that has been added is the “Reversal Edge.” This mechanic allows every player to defend against attacks, including ultimate abilities as well. Although very hard to accomplish, every single attack can be blocked in some way. So this brings a new frustration to fighting but also a new way of thinking. For hardcore fans of this genre, this new mechanic brings a new challenge that extends the life of the rounds and really makes you work for that win.
Compared to past games that have special characters such as Yoda from Star Wars, this new release kept the guest character to Geralt of Rivia, the main character of The Witcher. You can actually make as many new characters as you want with the creator. Some of the creations are absolutely hysterical which makes the game a lot of fun. Other creations really make you question your opponent’s sanity. Basically, with losing many special characters but being able to make your own, there is a draw. Good in its own way, but hardcore players have expressed their dislike for the change.
Overall, Soul Caliber VI is still a great game. The ability to block and defend makes some rounds a challenge to win but adds a specific excitement too. Levels still look amazing to play on and the character creator really isn’t as bad as some people would have you believe.
7/10
Available on PS4, Xbox and PC
