Guilty Gear X2

First off, I have to say face-value, this game is an exceedingly japanese game. If you are one of those people who can't stand Anime, or Japan in general, do not get this game. This game reeks of Otakuness out the rear end, which is why a lot of things in this game are the way they are. In fact, many animes reference this game (And the newest version). So keep that in mind.

Allright, now to the actual review. Guilty Gear X2 isnt so much a straight out fighting game for the engine, like Dead or Alive. In a sense, it is for the engine, but this is one of those games that is exclusively 2D, and it feels like such in the gameplay. Fun if you're a 2D fighter fan like me, bad if you want to see the PS2 pushed to its limits. Though, you'll notice that this game likes to fill your screen with many flashy things.

Also, the game is extremely wierd, control-wise. It takes some getting used to the jump system, as well as the counters and the like. This is good and bad- it means that there's no button mashing, but it also means that there is no newbie grace.

Now to the real meat of this game, and why it deserves two stars: The d*** controls. Look, if you're going to make a game, you have to make it where it doesnt rub the skin off the tops of your thumbs. Trust me- that's what's going to happen with the PS2 controllers. Sometimes known as the best controller for the next-gen systems, it becomes your mortal enemy when it comes to this game. I'd rather play it on a d***ed PC than try to avoid chafing my whole hand. PS: Your friends will make fun of your "Intense rubbing" of the "Control Stick" playing this game chafing your hand. Its inevitable.

Of course, when you get past it, its a decent game. The "SLASH" ability is actually kind of interesting, as well as the "Tension" meter at the bottom, which kind of modifies your fighting. I'm not sure exactly how it works, to be honest: I couldnt figure out how the hell to work it.



Overall, I give this game 2 stars. Only pick this game up if you're a real 2D hardcore freak, or you want to compete with the local "Sailor Moon" geek from next door. Otherwise, go pick up a DOA or a Tekken game- this isnt for you.

2 star(s) out of 5

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