Vanillaware returns with arguably its best game to date, a tribute to beat-em-ups with much deeper elements.
That's because Vanillaware has done great work with the game's controls. A slew of moves are available, including rising attacks, combinations, dashing and more. It's a beat-em-up fan's dream come true, with an array of techniques that you'll master in no time flat. The only odd tactic is calling upon your Rogue, Rannie, to unlock chests, either by tapping on the PS Vita screen or using an on-screen cursor on the PS3 to direct him. It would've been better to just have him seek out treasure automatically and open it for you. (Also, is it just us or does he seem to be in a too jubilant mood, even when you're battling a dragon?)
Some characters are easier than others. The elf is best reserved for those who want an ultimate challenge, as her fighting technique is much weaker than the others. Still, she's good for distant fighting, and a vital part of the team.
Which brings us to multiplayer. You can play locally with friends in a good beat-em-up fashion, similar to the arcade games of old. However, the real joy comes from unlocking online mode, where you can sign up with others to join in the battle. Online play runs pretty seamlessly on the PS3, though it runs a bit slower using Infrastructure on the PS Vita. Regardless, either way you choose, you can really build a heck of a battle party in this game.
