BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle Combines Anime Style with Deep Fighting Mechanics!

BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle throws you into a vibrant world teeming with over-the-top characters ripped straight from classic anime tropes. This fighting game, developed by Arc System Works, the studio known for its legendary Guilty Gear series and Dragon Ball FighterZ, brings together characters not only from the BlazBlue universe but also Persona 4 Arena Ultimax, Under Night In-Birth Exe:Late[cl-r], and RWBY, creating a delightful mashup of beloved franchises.

While the title might sound like an obscure Japanese RPG crossover, Cross Tag Battle delivers surprisingly deep and accessible gameplay. It embraces the 2v2 tag team format, allowing players to strategically switch between their chosen fighters mid-battle for extended combos, devastating super attacks, and tactical retreats. This adds a layer of complexity and nuance rarely seen in traditional fighting games.

Imagine unleashing the fiery wrath of Jin Kisaragi alongside the swift strikes of Ruby Rose from RWBY, or pairing the stoic Yukiko Amagi with the mysterious Hyde Kido. Cross Tag Battle encourages experimentation and team synergy, prompting players to discover unique combinations that best suit their playstyle.

But don’t let the flashy visuals and anime-inspired aesthetics fool you; beneath the surface lies a finely-tuned combat system. Cross Tag Battle utilizes a simplified four-button control scheme, making it accessible for newcomers while retaining enough depth to satisfy seasoned veterans.

Special moves are performed using directional inputs and button combinations, allowing for intricate combos and devastating finishers. Each character boasts a distinct arsenal of attacks, ranging from long-range projectiles to close-quarters grapples, ensuring diverse gameplay experiences.

Understanding the Core Mechanics: Beyond the Flashy Aesthetics

Let’s delve deeper into the core mechanics that make Cross Tag Battle truly shine:

• Tag Team Action: The heart of Cross Tag Battle lies in its 2v2 tag system. Players select two fighters who share a single health bar, encouraging strategic team composition and seamless mid-battle switches. Mastering tag timing is crucial for extending combos, landing surprise attacks, or creating defensive maneuvers.

• Active Switch System: Unlike traditional tag teams where switching involves a brief pause, Cross Tag Battle introduces an “Active Switch” system. This allows players to instantly swap characters mid-combo, opening up a world of possibilities for intricate offensive sequences and unpredictable counterattacks.

• Assist Attacks: One fighter can remain on standby while the other battles, providing crucial assist attacks. These range from quick projectiles to powerful special moves, adding an extra layer of tactical depth and customization.

• Break the Beat: This unique mechanic allows players to temporarily interrupt their opponent’s attack flow by landing a well-timed “Break the Beat” move. It creates openings for counterattacks and adds a dynamic element to blocking and defense.

A Visual Feast: From Anime Aesthetics to Stunning Stage Design

Cross Tag Battle doesn’t skimp on visual presentation. The game boasts vibrant 2D animations that capture the essence of each franchise, faithfully recreating iconic character designs and signature moves. From BlazBlue’s sharp, angular aesthetic to Persona’s more stylized art style, Cross Tag Battle seamlessly blends different anime aesthetics into a cohesive and visually striking experience.

The stages are equally impressive, featuring detailed backgrounds inspired by locations from the various franchises. Imagine battling amidst the bustling streets of Iwatodai (Persona 4 Arena Ultimax) or within the eerie ruins of Kagutsuchi (BlazBlue). The game’s soundtrack is also noteworthy, featuring a mix of energetic J-Pop tracks and adrenaline-pumping orchestral scores that perfectly complement the on-screen action.

Character Roster: A Celebration of Anime Archetypes

One of Cross Tag Battle’s greatest strengths lies in its diverse character roster, encompassing iconic heroes and villains from four distinct universes. Players can choose from over 40 fighters, each with their own unique fighting style, backstory, and signature moves:

• BlazBlue: Jin Kisaragi, Noel Vermillion, Ragna the Bloodedge
• Persona 4 Arena Ultimax: Yu Narukami, Yukiko Amagi, Yosuke Hanamura
• Under Night In-Birth Exe:Late[cl-r]: Hyde Kido, Linne, Waldstein
• RWBY: Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna

This diverse roster ensures there’s a fighter for everyone, from aggressive rushdown characters to patient zoning specialists. Experimenting with different team compositions is key to unlocking Cross Tag Battle’s full potential.

Accessibility Meets Depth: A Game For Everyone

Cross Tag Battle expertly balances accessibility and depth. The simplified control scheme makes it easy for newcomers to pick up and play, while the complex tag system and diverse character roster offer endless possibilities for seasoned fighting game enthusiasts.

The game features a robust tutorial mode that introduces players to the fundamental mechanics, providing a solid foundation for beginners. As players progress, they can unlock additional challenges and refine their skills through online and local multiplayer modes.

Conclusion: A Must-Have For Anime & Fighting Game Fans

BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle is a testament to Arc System Works’ dedication to crafting high-quality fighting experiences. The game seamlessly blends iconic anime characters with deep gameplay mechanics, creating an experience that’s both accessible and incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re a seasoned fighting game veteran or a newcomer looking for a fun and engaging title, Cross Tag Battle offers something for everyone. So gather your team, unleash devastating combos, and prepare to experience the ultimate anime crossover!