Developer: Arc System Works
Publisher: Aksys Games
Platform: Xbox One, PS3, PS Vita and PS4
Tested on: PS4
BlazBlue Chrono Phantasma Extend – Review
If there is one type of game that has been featured on every platform available throughout history, it is the 2D-fighting genre. Mix a large roster full of fighters with captivating background stories, stunning graphics, an incredible soundtrack with action packed combo stacking and you get something that comes close to BlazBlue: Chrono Phantasma EXTEND. This game brings back the joys of fantasy fighting games to the general gaming public with a very accessible title.
Story
BlazBlue is well established to have an in depth storyline that is capable of keeping players stuck to the screen for many hours on end. In fact, it is too elaborate to summarize in a review and contains enough scenarios to last ages. In fact, the developers have taken this into consideration and have provided BlazBlue Chrono Phantasma Extend with three distinct story modes.First off, there is a traditional storyline mode that is narrated through beautiful, TV-worthy animated cut-scenes packed with action and humour. Secondly, there is a “Teach Me More” mode that educates players on the proceedings of earlier games in the series. This mode is light hearted as it takes place in the form of a genuine history class. This option is most entertaining for novel players, as it provides a way to familiarize oneself with the story spanning multiple games, prior to tackling the real story mode.
A content base this expanded may seemingly lead to a slow paced whole, especially for players seeking action rather than an intense plot. However, BlazBlue brings its lore forward in such an entertaining way that this is a non-issue. Then again, veteran fans may not see many differences with BlazBlue: Chrono Phantasma.
Graphics
The graphics are completely in line with the previous instalments of the series. They consist of colourful anime characters displayed in front of a background with 3D effects. The attacks are still sparking out of the screen with bright colours and explosions. But what makes BlazBlue Chrono Phantasma Extended stand out in comparison to its predecessors is the very noticeable update to match the hardware capabilities of current gen consoles. The game is now taking full benefits of the 1080p, 60 fps visuals.
The animations are just that little bit less laggy than previous iterations and the traditional 2D sprite animations pasted on top of deep, rich in colour 3D backgrounds are seamlessly combined into a fluent, performant visual style. Because they are of this high quality, playing the game for prolonged sessions is not migraine-inducing. On the contrary, they are very much enjoyable. It is like playing a very high quality visual novel.
Sound
All of the above would be meaningless if not accompanied by an equally impressive set of audio tracks. Indeed, the game comes with a superb Japanese rock soundtrack that matches the well defined vibes of the earlier BlazBlue games. Full of energy and adjusting to the atmosphere of the battle arena, it almost makes it worthwhile to take a break, call for peace and have moment of enjoying the music. The audio quality of the voice acting is also nothing to sneeze at. There is the option to pick your preference between Japanese and English voices, both are equally clear.
The fighting related sound effects are also invigorating as they make all hits sound as if the player is beating up a nice juicy steak or slapping a metal canister with a hammer. This makes chaining finishing combos even more satisfying. This is not the same as claiming the game sounds realistic, however the quality is decent enough to eliminate the need for imagination.
Gameplay
BlazBlue still has the same old same old fighting system, where players are supposed to chain together powerful combos that are character specific. It doesn’t take an A+ in math to deduct that the large roster combined with these mechanics lead to a very large variation in playing styles and finishing combos. Equally large in numbers is the amount of counters and super moves that slowly eat away at your enemy’s energy bar. Actually, all controls come down to having the best possible timing in your actions, even more than is the case in other traditional 2D fighting games.
Despite being not very innovative in the combat area, BlazBlue Chrono Phantasma Extend brings a mindboggling amount of game modes, aside from the story mode variations that were discussed already. Allow us to limit the discussion to those that have drawn our attention the most. First of there is a very intense tutorial mode. This mode aids new players to fully grasp the fine controls of each individual character, making it easy to get better at the game. Having such a feature is a nice addition, as it reduces the level required to have an expert play style.
Another mode that allows for players to learn the ropes is the Abyss Mode. This is a type of survival mode where players can gather money to buy upgrades, special abilities and boosts for their favourite character. This way, each round improves the stats of your fighter. For many people, this mode will become the most entertaining in the game.
BlazBlue is a game that just calls for competition. Not only is there a very stable network mode that allows you to fight other players live, earning bragging rights amongst your friends, but there also is the Unlimited Mars mode. In this mode the fight is up against very cleverly programmed opponents. Not so special at first glimpse, but the trick here is that all of the player progress is recorded and can be compared against players world-wide…
Conclusion
BlazBlue Chrono Phantasma Extend is elevating the series to the current gen platform. It brings both high quality graphics and sound wrapped in what must be the most elaborate story content for a 2D fighter to date. Despite this amazing upgrade, experienced players may have comments. The biggest fans may not find this game worth spending the money on, because it provides not that much new content, especially compared to the previous instalment. However, the game still is very accessible for novice players and is enjoyable by all levels of competitors.
BlazBlue Chrono Phantasma Extend – Review,
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