Latest Soulcalibur addition does not disappoint

THE Soulcalibur series is one of the few gaming franchises that unwaveringly commands an enduring respect from almost every breed of video-game fan.

Never has the series disappointed, but never has the series reached the same dizzying heights as its contemporaries, preferring instead to carve out its own path somewhere between competitive fighting games and grandiose storytelling.

Soulcaliber VI comes laden with two brilliant story modes. One such mode showcases the meat of the game, allowing the player to create and customize a unique fighter using the basic but serviceable character creation menu.

Although narrating the game’s story almost entirely through text, the Libra of Souls story mode is nonetheless engaging and recounted in an epic manner not unsuited to the general feel of the Soulcalibur series.

Soulcalibur VI’s RPG mechanics are a slightly jarring but not unwelcome addition to the series, lending a greater sense of purpose to the traditional formula, while still remaining true to the distinctly “arcade-y” feel of the series.

Outside of the main campaign mode, there is a secondary mode included called Soul Chronicles, which is a more traditional take on the obligatory fighting game story mode.

Soul Chronicles supplements the main story by fleshing out the stories and backgrounds of the 19 included characters.

Although it suffers from some of the same issues as the Libra of Souls mode - namely, extremely short fights - it is a worthwhile endeavour and will be welcomed by lore-obsessed fans of the series.

Soulcalibur VI remains true to the series’ roots in its championing of simplicity, straying away from drastic changes in favour of minor additions and alterations.

Combat-wise, the star of the show is the updated and amended move list, with the star of the show being the new rock-paper-scissors-esque moves.

Though it may seem initially that this introduces an element of chance, it quickly melds into an integral and nuanced part of the gameplay.

Stalwart fans of the Soulcalibur series will not be let down by this superb addition.

Rarely, if ever does the Soulcalibur series disappoint and Soulcalibur VI is no exception.

Rarely, if ever does the Soulcalibur series disappoint and this addition is no exception.