The reveal of BlazBlue Cross Tag Battle was an exciting one. It brought together multiple series including Rooster Teeth’s RWBY, which is what got my attention the most. I was a fan of the games involved and a big fan of RWBY, so I really wanted this game to be good. After spending some time playing it with the version sent to me by Arc System Works, I have to say I wasn’t expecting some of what is in the game.
As I said with the beta, BlazBlue Cross Tag Battle is very different from the main series of BlazBlue, let alone the other franchises. This game is a 2v2 tag fighter, and makes full use of the mechanics. I noted before that some people like 3v3 tag fighting games better, but for me this is the style that works. With a 2v2 game, I have to learn both characters and cannot just drop my characters into designated role, which happens with 3v3 fighters. You will need time to get the hang of the characters, but you will find a team that works for you pretty quickly.
While playing the game on the Switch, I had quite a few online matches. Sadly, the only was still spotty in many areas but when it worked, the matches were amazing. There was still lag in many matches, but it was playable at least, unlike in the beta where some matches had been a slideshow. Most of the matches this time dud tend to be far better, so obviously something was fixed, and it was easy and simple it was to find a match. There was never any waiting around for a long time and I have played some very interesting online fights. I just wish the connection was overall better more often.
One thing I must comment on is the story mode of the game. I will not give ay spoilers here, but I will say that this is the funniest game I have played all year. The story doesn’t take itself seriously, and instead goes for laughs as much as possible. The game is very much aware of the absurd premise and milked it for everything it was worth. The character interactions were well written, and some of the endings have to be seen to be believed. The story mode is most definitely a highlight here and hats off to the dev team for pulling this off.
BlazBlue Cross Tag Battle is an extremely welcoming game, but not a dumbed down one. The setup is different but still one that requires you to put the full work in. A skilled player will defeat a newcomer that button mashes, but the game also makes learning how to play very accessible. The tutorials are well done, and actually teach you how to fight instead of just dropping you in the middle of things. That is a highlight of many Arc System Works games, and remains a highlight here. It is a case of easy to learn but difficult to master when it comes to BlazBlue Cross Tag Battle, and that is how it should be.
This is a game that should get many newcomers interested in the BlazBlue series, in addition to satisfying the long time fans. There is something for everybody here and that is a good thing. I highly recommend checking out this game!
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Pictures taken from offline mode
Disclaimer: A review key was provided
reviewed on Nintendo Switch
Available on PC, PS4 and Switch