Get ready for a fighting game that defies time itself! Under Night In-Birth 2 Sys:Celes is a 2024 release that might make you question, 'Why review it now?' But here's the twist: it's a hidden gem that deserves the spotlight.
This 2D fighter is a masterpiece, especially for those who crave the nostalgia of fast-paced anime fighters with a modern twist. With stunning pixel art, bizarre character designs, and top-notch netcode, it offers a steep learning curve that's incredibly satisfying to conquer. And its online play? It's become a staple, even long after its release.
Let's talk about the developer, French Bread. They're no strangers to the fighting game scene, having previously worked on Melty Blood, a 2D fighter inspired by the visual novel Tsukihime. But Under Night In-Birth (UNI for short) is their first original series, and it's a four-button fighter with a unique twist.
The combat system is a breath of fresh air. Unlike most fighters, UNI lets you chain attacks however you like, allowing for creative and devastating combos. Land any hit, and you can unleash massive damage, empowering players to express their creativity.
But don't be fooled by its accessibility. UNI is a beast to master. The game's pace is lightning-fast, and its zoning and mixups can be overwhelming. You'll need to master various mechanics to stand a chance, and for casual players, it might feel like a homework assignment.
Enter the GRD system, a unique minigame within the fight. Picture a tug-of-war during combat, where players fill a meter by attacking, blocking, or charging like a Dragon Ball Z character. The winner gains a massive advantage, dealing more damage and accessing powerful techniques. It's a complex yet ingenious system that rewards both offense and defense, and it's unlike anything else in the 2D fighter genre.
Visually, UNI2 is a feast. Arc System Works' blend of 3D characters in 2D environments is impressive, but UNI's 2D sprite art is a nostalgic treat. The characters are bursting with personality, from Minerva's wild hair and flailing limbs to Seth's lightning-fast slashes and Waldstein's massive arms. Each of the 24 characters (plus 3 DLC) is a delight to play and watch.
For rushdown enthusiasts, Linne is a dream come true. Her incredible speed lets her close distances in an instant, and her basic strike/throw gameplan is devastating. The mission mode is a treasure trove, offering a comprehensive guide to each character's combos, from point-blank to high-level techniques. It's a perfect learning tool for players of all skill levels.
However, the story mode might leave newcomers scratching their heads. Without context from previous games, the extensive lore of Under Night can be confusing. An index or compendium could have helped bridge the gap for new players.
UNI2 shines brightest in its core modes but lacks additional content for casual players. The Replay Takeover feature is a standout, allowing players to learn from their mistakes by taking control during replays, a feature seen in only a few other fighting games. Despite some casual players potentially missing out on its depth, Under Night In-Birth 2 stands tall among the best 2D fighters, offering a unique and engaging experience for fighting game enthusiasts.
