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The much heralded online play turned out to be really, really good, not only because of the non-existence of lag, but also due to the deluge of features that are included. Sure, some people have mentioned that games can have extreme cases of lag, but they seem to be in the vast minority. This is the first time that a 3D fighter has appeared online for the Xbox, and players will be thrilled to hear that Tecmo has gone out of its way to include many modes with the game. You can do simple one on one matches, but Arcade Mode is where the game really shines. Simulating an actual arcade, two players will duke it out while the other competitors watch on the sidelines. Once a player loses, they are sent to the back of the line while the next pair of gamers fight. It works amazingly well, especially when you start talking trash with your headset. I've had great experiences in an actual arcade with over 20 people watching my matches in Soul Calibur, and I got the same chills when I was playing DOA2U in arcade mode.
In addition to the tweaks in the gameplay, Tecmo has also completely overhauled the graphics engine. In fact, the game probably looks better than Dead or Alive 3! Some of the environments are just crazy to watch if you're a spectator. The Safari, Aerial Gardens and the Suspension Bridge rank as some of my favourites. The best effect in the game (and possibly any game) has to be the season-changing effect that the end boss Tengu uses. It has to be seen to be believed. What is truly impressive about the graphics is that the game can still run at at full 60fps both online and offline. I think it's safe to say that Team Ninja has achieved the title of "graphical pimps" after their work on this game.
The original Dead or Alive installment didn't receive any updates in contrast to Dead or Alive 2, but the whole package is one of the best deals you can get this Christmas for the Xbox. Even though Halo 2 is the biggest title for the platform this year, I feel that DOA does more to advance the genre with its innovative online modes and overall presentation. It'll be interesting to see how Namco and Sega react to DOA's success, but for now, Xbox owners can enjoy what's easily the best fighting game on the system, bar none. |
