Where to begin with this one, well for starters I wasn’t a huge fan of Bloody Roar for PS2. I loved the first two games that were on the PSOne and when I heard there was going to be a PS2 version I was ecstatic. Then I played it and was let down immensely. Not to say the game was horrible, in fact the fighting system was very good, the main problem is the game didn’t have me coming back for more again and again. Now that Gamecube owners are being treated to a new version of this game we get to see what Bloody Roar was meant to be on a next gen platform.
The first noticeable difference is the visuals. You will notice that the character models are light years past the PS2’s graphics. No jaggies, more polys per character, and the action never slows down. Not to mention that the backgrounds have been given a massive facelift, some of them are even multi-layered ala DOA2 & 3. The action moves at a pace so fast only the most die hard fighting game fans will be able to keep up. Simple button mashers need not apply!
Next we come to the sounds, well the music is almost identical to the PS2’s, heavy metal riffs with an 80’s overtone that screams hair metal. The sound effects are a nice blend of realistic cuts and slashes and over the top pounds and slams, very nice audio. The voices are sometimes laughable but that can be overlooked trust me.
Where does the game play fall into place? Well if you have ever played BR you know that the game consists of two main attack buttons as well as the beast button which allows you to transform into your alter ego, once in this mode the beast button allows you to perform special moves only available in beast form. You can also go into Rave Mode and inflict more damage as well as perform insane super combos that rival those of Street Fighter only in full 3D glory!
Now where are the gripes, you know this game isn’t perfect the score says so!! Well for starters what is the name of this game??? Bloody Roar, where is the damn blood? The blood in the original has been replaced with nifty sparks…LOL WTF were they thinking??? The only other major complaint is that the last boss, no matter who it is, is almost impossible. He will use every cheap move in the book to keep you from winning the fight!
Overall if you own a Gamecube this is a must own game, it should be right next to Smash Bros. This game will bring many happy hours of hardcore multi-player as well as it’s massive library of unlockable items that you obtain throughout the game. Anime endings, special modes, hidden characters, and yet so much more. Get yo arses over to your local game shop and get your copy of BRPF now, it just may save your life!!