In 2013 we tested a whimsical beat ’em up for the Xbox 360 called ”Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds – a spin-off of the Japan-exclusive dueling brawler Phantom Breaker” In 2022, a revamped incarnation is making it to the West. 22 mostly female characters compete and hope that if they win the tournament their dearest wish will be fulfilled. Ren wants to heal her sick sister, Ria wants revenge on her mother’s killer and Ninja Yuzuha wants to reinstate the Shogun to build great castles all over Japan – why not? A few guests are part of the party, visual novel fans are looking forward to Rimi Chaos;Head and Kurisu out Steins;Gate.
Each character competes in three fighting styles: Choose between ”Fast”, ”Strong” or the new ”Omnia” mode – this provides a playful variety. Fighting is classic on a 2D level, each character has different specials that are quite easy to execute. In general, the game places a strong focus on counterattacks and parries, tension and burst bars are also important: Tension increases damage and fills burst, which you need for improved specials. The story modes of earlier episodes are also on board as well as an arcade variant, and of course the local and online multiplayer function is not forgotten either. Graphically you can tell the age of the game (the “Extra” original is from 2013): The sprites are not too high resolution and we have already seen smoother 2D animations. The polygonal backgrounds are simple, but at least change between two rounds of combat.
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