While fans didn’t like the new direction of the Ninja Gaiden series, many gamers seem to support Dead or Alive’s. The move to a more cinematic feeling is nice, plus the more serious approach is quite welcomed. However does this make Dead or Alive better or does it simply kill the charm?
The biggest change in Dead or Alive, is how the environment acts. Sure we’ve all seen a wall break or maybe some additional damage via shock, but Dead or Alive 5 takes it to the next level. On stages with these traps, they actually vastly change the situation. One of these is on a roof top, where if you make the generator explode, the actual building starts to come down. From this point forward, the stage will start to move / slant downward, while pieces break off.Besides the background, some of these elements will affect the combat too. You might see a chunk of cement fall into the arena, which will do damage if it hits someone or something along these lines.
Despite the changes, the combat remains the same. Attacks are very fluid with several possible combos, but you’re going to need to change it up to win. This is due to the fantastic counter system, so don’t be surprised if your opponent sees your attacks coming. All of this stuff is relatively unchanged, so fans of the series will be quite happy.
Beyond this, there are some changes in the mechanics. The biggest are critical bursts, which are intended for more advanced gamers to use. These allow you to stun an opponent for an extended period of time, if you can input it correctly after striking them. Due to their difficulty, they’re obviously not suited for everyone, though they give you the perfect opportunity to use your power blow. These are attacks you can only do at 50% and require a bit of a charge. Despite these requirements, connecting one will literally blast your opponent across the screen or into an environmental element, so they’re quite rewarding to do. Finally Tag Matches are still there and these have tag power blasts too. They basically work the same, but you can do one, then lead into the other for more damage.
Above all, Dead or Alive 5 should appeal to a greater audience. The new stage elements are quite exciting and looked fantastic. The combat is virtually unchanged, though the additions certainly offer new options for skilled fighting game fans. In all honesty, unless you were a fan of the pervy elements, you will enjoy this game.