Is this ultimate edition worth the battle?
While the core story may seem more focused than previous games, DOA5 Ultimate still features the over the top ridiculous story that you would expect. While the beginning and end of the story mode are surprisingly enjoyable, filled with drama and surprise, the parts in between are the exact opposite. You get to play as each of the main characters in the game as they make their own journey to the tournament. While their stories are extreme, it provides a great opportunity to play as each character and experience their fighting styles. I prefer speed players when playing fighting games, but after playing as retired pro wrestler Bass or the assassin Bayman, I gained an appreciation for those fighters that are outside of my comfort zone.
The stories attempt to intertwine, but they collide into each other with the grace of a drunken giraffe. Still, the stories are enjoyable and a great way to expand your skills as a player. I would recommend that both new and old players to the game play the story mode first and remain open minded for both the content and the new players you will experience.
While the story mode is enjoyable, and undoubtedly sets up DOA6, the DOA5 Ultimate is a fighting game first and foremost. This “Ultimate” edition to the franchise still features the tight mechanics that it is legendary for. The combat is fast and fluid and every character has their own unique style and skill that makes them interesting and unique. This version of the game features the robust Training Mode from the Vita version. You can pour hours into the mode alone learning about every character or fine-tuning your skills with your favorite fighter. The game also features the traditional Arcade, Time Attack, and traditional one-on-one matchups that you would expect in a fighting game. The game also features online two vs. two tag team matches for the first time.
