In fact, the SC6 story is one of the deeper stories to hit a fighting game in quite some time. While SoulCalibur VI is at its best when played with friends, Bandai Namco didn’t skimp on single-player options. What could have been a simple addition turned into a wildly deep system. Dodges can also be thrown in for further wrinkles. But will the opponent see this coming and counter? Learning these matchups is crucial and adds a welcome degree of complexity to this mechanic. Certain characters are encouraged to hit one button above the others, because winning with that button can allow them to chain into a greater combo. Just the idea of the clash by itself is epic, but there’s also a strategic element involved. Here, the advantage goes to whoever can win a rock-paper-scissor clash, which can go multiple times if both players keep hitting the same button.

If opponents go on the offensive, players can hold down the Reversal Edge button to absorb blows and put both fighters in a neutral clash. Where SoulCalibur VI improves is with the addition of Reversal Edge. Everything combines into some intense battles and some of the best 3D fighting in the fighting game world.

Once the standard fighting mechanics are figured out, it becomes easy to learn the 8-way run system that allows for moving about the 3D plane. All of these different attack methods can counter one another, with precision timing also allowing for parries and stun hits. Face buttons can be combined and players can go vertical or crouch down for still more combinations. Weapon combat is still the name of the game, with players able to unleash different attacks using three different face buttons and the D-pad.

Soul calibur 6 pc controls keyboard