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BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle, released in 2018, offered a vibrant and fast-paced fighting game experience during a relatively quiet period for the genre. Developed by Arc System Works, known for complex fighters like Guilty Gear and BlazBlue, this crossover title aimed for a more accessible approach, simplifying mechanics while retaining the signature visual flair. This review explores its strengths and weaknesses.

Streamlined Combat for Easy Entry

Unlike other Arc System Works titles, BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle streamlines the combat system, making it easier for newcomers to pick up and enjoy. The game draws inspiration from Persona 4 Arena, BlazBlue, and Under Night In-Birth, blending these influences with elements from Rooster Teeth’s popular web series, RWBY.

The control scheme is simplified with two basic attack buttons, a special attack button, and a partner tag button. Complex combos and special moves are accessible through simplified inputs, allowing players to execute flashy attacks with relative ease. While mastery still requires practice, the streamlined system allows for quick enjoyment and experimentation.

With simplified inputs, players can execute impressive combos and special moves without complex button combinations.

Tag Team Dynamics and a Diverse Roster

The game features 2v2 tag team battles, a familiar mechanic in fighting games but a relatively new addition to recent Arc System Works titles. This system adds a strategic layer, allowing players to switch between characters, extend combos, and create unique team synergies. The tag team mechanic also serves to connect the diverse roster of characters drawn from four different franchises.

The inclusion of RWBY characters marks their first appearance in a fighting game, adding a fresh dynamic to the gameplay. Each character brings a distinct playstyle, further enhancing the strategic depth of the tag team system. The unique blend of characters from BlazBlue, Persona 4 Arena, Under Night In-Birth, and RWBY offers a variety of fighting styles.

A Clash of Styles and Inconsistent Visuals

While the diverse roster is a strength, it also contributes to a visual inconsistency. The distinct art styles of the represented franchises clash, resulting in a somewhat disjointed aesthetic. Some characters appear more polished than others, particularly the RWBY characters, who appear less detailed compared to their counterparts.

Paid DLC and Familiar Faces

Another potential drawback is the reliance on paid downloadable content (DLC) for additional characters. Many of the base roster characters are returning fighters from previous Arc System Works games, with minimal changes to their movesets. This might disappoint players hoping for more original content.

While the diverse roster and accessible gameplay are appealing, the inconsistent visuals and paid DLC model hold the game back.

Conclusion

BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle offers an accessible and enjoyable fighting game experience with its simplified mechanics and diverse roster. The tag team system adds a layer of strategic depth, and the inclusion of RWBY characters brings a fresh perspective. However, the inconsistent visuals and reliance on paid DLC for additional characters ultimately detract from the overall experience. While it provides a fun and frantic fighting experience, it falls short of establishing a distinct identity among Arc System Works’ more polished offerings.