The Evolution of Tag Fighters: A New Era in Gaming
The gaming world is witnessing a fascinating trend with the rise of tag-team fighting games. With titles like 2XKO and Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls already making waves, Invincible VS enters the arena, bringing a fresh take on the 3v3 tag fighter genre. Developed by Quarter Up, a team with roots in the acclaimed Killer Instinct reboot, this game offers a unique blend of fast-paced action and strategic depth.
A Familiar Yet Innovative Combat System
The combat system in Invincible VS is a twist on the traditional formula. Inspired by Killer Instinct, it introduces a two-way combo dynamic, turning each exchange into a thrilling mind game. Players must balance building combos and managing a meter, adding a layer of complexity to the usual fighting game mechanics. This system, while polarizing, is a bold departure from the norm and demands a strategic approach.
The Art of Feints and Counter Tags
One of the standout features is the Counter Tag mechanic. Players can attempt to bait opponents into using a Counter Tag, only to feint and leave them exposed. This adds an exciting layer of risk and reward, encouraging players to anticipate and outsmart their opponents. However, the satisfaction of successfully executing these strategies is counterbalanced by the frustration of certain mechanics, such as the Assist Breaker.
Assist Breakers: A Double-Edged Sword
The Assist Breaker, in my opinion, is a controversial addition. Unlike other fighting games where such mechanics are limited, Invincible VS allows its unrestricted use. This can lead to drawn-out matches, especially against inexperienced players. The cost of using this move is steep, but the ability to break combos at will can be game-changing. Balancing this mechanic is crucial to ensuring fair and engaging gameplay.
Stiff Animation, Engaging Characters
In terms of gameplay feel, Invincible VS leans towards the stiffness of Mortal Kombat and Killer Instinct. This might be a turn-off for those accustomed to the fluidity of Guilty Gear Strive or Street Fighter 6. However, the diverse roster of characters, each with distinct playstyles, offers a compelling reason to persevere. From lightning-fast fighters to heavy hitters and teleporting wildcards, the game captures the essence of its source material.
A Filler Episode in Game Form
For fans of the Invincible series, the story mode is a delightful surprise. Co-written by talent from the Amazon Prime show, it feels like a genuine filler episode, offering a unique narrative experience. The voice acting and cutscenes are top-notch, and the story, while short, is well-paced and engaging. However, the cliffhanger ending leaves players wanting more, hopefully setting the stage for future DLC.
Meeting Expectations, But Not Exceeding Them
While Invincible VS ticks all the boxes of a modern fighting game, it doesn't push the boundaries. The arcade mode, training features, and replay viewer are standard fare. The stellar rollback netcode ensures smooth online play, but the game's true innovation lies in its combat system.
Final Thoughts
Invincible VS is a solid entry in the tag fighter genre, offering a unique combat system that encourages strategic thinking. The game's mechanics, while not without flaws, provide a refreshing challenge. The story mode, though brief, is a highlight for fans of the series. However, the game's overall experience feels like a well-crafted episode of a TV show—engaging and enjoyable, but leaving you eager for the next installment.
