Fate/Unlimited Codes is the latest 2D fighter from Capcom. It’s based on the popular anime series Fate/Stay Night and features a wide array of characters from the show, as well as some nice 3D models and impressive maps to fight on. It’s the first game to be released by Capcom only through Sony’s Playstation Network, and is only for the PSP.
But enough about all that; most of you reading this are probably wondering one of two things, one, what the hell is Fate/Stay Night, or two, how good is it? Well, one I already answered, it’s an anime, and two, well, let’s take a look at the Hots and Nots of Fate/Unlimited Codes for the PSP.
HOT
Capcom 2D fighting action is solid as always
Capcom paved the way for the 2D fighter with it’s original arcade release of Street Fighter. Since then, many have mimicked Capcom’s style, and Capcom has continue to improve and evolve itself. This game is no different, and for anyone who’s a fan of the Capcom style will feel right at home here. The action is fast paced, and while characters can move left and right by hitting the R button, the fighting always remains on a 2D plane.
Graphics are fantastic
The graphics look awesome and truly give off that anime feel. Characters are rendered great, and the animations are as smooth and as fluid as can be. I never witnessed any delays or framerate issues, even when the action was getting heated.
Pick Up And Play
Making this a download only game was a bold move on Capcom’s part, especially considering the digital only PSP Go won’t be out for a few more weeks. However, a game like this pretty much fits in perfectly with the download only crowd. It’s got nice pick up and play gameplay, nothing too complicated or complex, just quick fighting action. All the characters are available from the start, meaning you won’t have to play through arcade mode countless times jus to unlock more characters. This is a great game to have in between classes or on a lunch break.
Great For Fans
Fate/Unlimited Codes is a dream come true for fans of the series. All the characters are here and represented well, each with a unique move from the show. The ability to unlock alternate colors and character art will only further add to the fanservice level, and being able to control your own fantasy matches just seals the deal. Not to mention, this game retains it’s original Japanese soundtrack, so all the voices are done by the anime Seiyu(that’s Japanese for voice actor) and I’ve heard the music is also inspired by the anime, since I’m not a fan I can’t confirm this. If you love Fate/Stay Night, then there’s little reason to not pick this one up.
Nots
Simplistic Fighting
As I said before, title offers some great pick up and play action. Newcomers won’t have any trouble jumping in and winning matches. The problem with this is that it’s almost TOO simplistic. Button mashing is not discouraged in the slightest, and spamming moves whilst moving a lot will almost always net you a win. While in contrast, the special moves can sometimes be completely ridiculous and totally random. In games like Street Fighter and The King of Fighters, each character has their own unique special moves. These moves often require a special combination of moves and button presses, but they often resemble each other in some fashion, making each character unique, while still similar enough for someone to master. Fate/Unlimited Codes moves seem more spastic than anything, and some of these moves I swear are meant to be pulled off only in a flurry of random movements and button presses.
No Online
Ok, so I know this one isn’t that much of a surprise, after all this is a handheld game. I find it strange however that so few companies take advantage of the PSPs infrastructure mode. Sony has really set a new standard for mobile online interaction what with the mobile PSN store and features like remote play, yet it seems developers STILL don’t see the potential of having online play. However, the local multiplayer using Ad Hoc works fine, so as long as you have some friends nearby, multiplayer is still an option.
Fans Only
It’s no secret that I am an anime fan. Take a look around my room and you’ll see tons of anime, manga, figures, Gundams, plushies, and pretty much any other kind of tat you would find in the dealers room of an anime convention. With that being said, I must say that I have very limited knowledge of Fate/Stay Night. While I do own the entire series on DVD, I have yet to sit down and watch it from start to finish. However, I think that may have helped curve some of the biasness that may have entered into this review. I played through some of the characters arcade modes, and it’s clear this game was made with the fans in mind. There’s very little explanation given during the few cutscenes you get, so don’t expect a compelling story here, if you want that then watch the anime. Characters often reference events that are never seen in the game, so anyone who isn’t familiar with the series will be totally lost. Still, the fighting is decent enough so you can pretty much just skip these scenes and get back to the fighting.
VERDICT
All in all, Fate/Unlimited Codes is a pretty solid fighter. While it’s not on the level of Street Fighter IV or Blazblue, it does offer some nice, fast paced action for when you’re on the go. It’s simplistic gameplay might turn some of the hardcore off a bit, but for anyone just looking for a quick and casual fighting game that you can play on that quick bus ride home, and don’t mind being left in the dark in terms of story, then Fate/Unlimited Codes is the game for you.
