Under Night In-Birth 2 Sys:Celes Review: A Deep Dive into the World of 2D Fighting Games
The Fight's On!
You might be thinking, "Another fighting game review?" Well, hold on a minute! Under Night In-Birth 2 Sys:Celes is a gem that deserves the spotlight, especially for fans of fast-paced anime fighters with a twist. Released in 2024, it builds upon the original 2012 game, which, surprisingly, never got a review. But fear not, because I'm here to fill that gap and tell you why this game is a must-play for fighting game enthusiasts.
A Unique Fighting System
Let's talk about the heart of the game: its fighting system. UNI2 introduces a refreshing take on combo logic, allowing players to chain attacks in any order they prefer. Whether it's heavy to light or light to heavy, the game encourages creativity. This freedom gives players a sense of liberation, as they can land big damage from any touch, making the learning curve both challenging and rewarding.
Character Diversity and Intuitive Controls
The game boasts an impressive roster of 24 characters, each with unique abilities and playstyles. Despite their differences, all characters are intuitive to control, thanks to the game's flexible fighting system. You can easily pick up a new character and play through Arcade mode or challenge a friend without relying on complex auto-combos.
But Don't Be Fooled - It's Not Easy!
UNI2 is not a walk in the park. The game speed is lightning-fast, and zoning can be oppressive if you don't know how to counter it. Characters can pull off mixups that will leave you reeling. To truly compete, you need to master its mechanics, and that takes time and dedication. For casual players, it might feel like homework, but the rewards are worth the effort.
GRD System: A Tug-of-War Within the Fight
At the core of UNI2 is the GRD system, a unique mechanic that adds a layer of strategy. Imagine a tug-of-war mini-game running parallel to the fight. The GRD meter, with six diamonds on each side, is filled by moving forward, landing attacks, blocking, and using the risky but rewarding shield block. Holding the Exs Action button charges up the meter, while moving backward or getting hit drains it. The person with the most filled meter wins the mini-game and enters the Vorpal State, gaining a damage boost and the ability to use Chain Shift.
Aesthetic Excellence
Arc System Works has mastered the art of blending 3D characters in 2D environments, and UNI2's characters are no exception. The game's pixel art and character designs are stunning, with each character brimming with personality. From Minerva's wild hair to Seth's lightning-fast slashes, every fighter is a delight to behold.
Rushdown Mastery: Linne's Story
As a fan of rushdown characters, I was drawn to Linne, who surprised me with her aggressive playstyle. Her incredible run speed allows her to close distances in an instant. Even without mastering her combos, she's a ton of fun to play. The game's teaching tools, including a mission mode with various combos, help you unlock your character's full potential.
Story Mode: A Jargon-Filled Journey
Unfortunately, the story mode can be a bit overwhelming for newcomers. It's filled with jargon and references to previous games in the series. The world of Under Night is extensive, and the story mode doesn't provide enough context for new players. A comprehensive index or compendium would have made the experience more accessible.
Replay Takeover: Learning from Mistakes
UNI2 introduces a feature called Replay Takeover, which is a godsend for serious players. While watching a replay, you can take control of a character at any point, allowing you to analyze and improve your gameplay. This feature is also found in games like Street Fighter 6 and Tekken 8, and it's a powerful tool for improving your skills.
Verdict: A Must-Play for 2D Fighter Fans
Under Night In-Birth 2 Sys:Celes is a deep and rewarding 2D fighting game. It offers an extensive roster, excellent teaching tools, and a unique GRD system that adds a layer of strategy. While it may not appeal to casual players, those who love the genre will find it incredibly satisfying. So, if you're a fighting game enthusiast, give UNI2 a try and experience the thrill of mastering its complex yet brilliant mechanics!
