Bloody Roar Extreme
Contrary to its name, Bloody Roar Extreme is anemic, mewling, and mild. As in the series’ previous games, fighters begin as humans and transform into feral beasts midbout to tear each other apart with claws and fangs. That notion could make a fine fighter, but BRX is eviscerated by stylistic and technical failings. First off, you’ll find a particularly motley (read: embarrassing) crew of brawlers here. The Chameleon, Rabbit, and Cat-girl look downright ridiculous next to more toothsome competitors like the Wolf and Lion. And why include losers like the Mole and the Insect before nature’s better fighters? Laughable characters aside, this game just ain’t fun. It’s so simple that even experienced players fare better pounding one button than trying to execute combos or reversals. I had Karate Champ (NES) flashbacks when my characters refused to face their opponents. The lack of moves lists in Training mode, absurdly cheap A.I. opponents, and dull arenas make BRX even harder to enjoy. Even the tykes for whom it’s intended should avoid this shambles.
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