Dead or Alive 5 Last Round

The story mode of Dead or Alive 5: Last Round receives mixed but generally lukewarm reception, with some reviewers acknowledging its attempt to provide a framework for character engagement and humor. Critics like Game Over Online highlight the mix of serious and silly elements, noting character development and quirky scenarios such as Zack’s circus cannonball entrance, while Hobby Consolas praises the “modo historia coral” structure, where players assume nearly all fighters’ roles through 70 missions connected by cinematic sequences. God is a Geek acknowledges that the narrative effectively introduces characters and tactics, even if it lacks depth, and LevelUp suggests the non-linear approach allows players to switch characters, offering some variety. Additionally, GameStar describes the story as “extremely crazy but charming trashy,” emphasizing its over-the-top style despite its lack of substance. These positives often revolve around the mode’s entertainment value and character-centric elements rather than narrative sophistication. However, the majority of critics panned the story for its incoherence, shallow plot, and repetitive structure. CGMagazine calls it “nonlinear, convoluted, and filled with nonsensical elements,” while GamesBeat describes it as a disjointed “narrative matrix” riddled with clichés and abrupt shifts between characters. Metro GameCentral criticizes the narrative as “nonsensical, creepy, and sexist,” and Multiplayer.it notes its unoriginality and lack of development despite expanded content. Many reviewers, including Arcade Sushi, games(TM), and Atomix, point out that the story mode is essentially unchanged from previous iterations, with no meaningful updates or depth. CGMagazine and Gaming Nexus also highlight its failure to engage players, with the plot feeling like a mere excuse for combat rather than a cohesive tale. Technical issues, such as poor voice acting (Hardcore Gamer) and jumbled cutscenes (Riot Pixels), further detract from the experience. Overall, critics agree that the story mode of Dead or Alive 5: Last Round is a significant weakness, with its lack of narrative depth, repetitive structure, and reliance on campy humor overshadowing any potential. While some praise its role in introducing characters or providing light entertainment (e.g., GameStar’s “charming trashy” description), the consensus leans heavily toward criticism. The mode is seen as a functional but unremarkable backdrop for gameplay, with many reviewers, including CGMagazine, GamesBeat, and Metro GameCentral, emphasizing its failure to evolve beyond the series’ established flaws. Despite minor positives, the story’s incoherence, poor writing, and lack of innovation leave it as an afterthought compared to the game’s combat mechanics, making it a divisive and ultimately underwhelming aspect of the experience.

The gameplay of Dead or Alive 5 Last Round is widely praised for its accessibility, depth, and refined mechanics. Critics highlight the game’s fluid combat system, which balances simplicity for newcomers with strategic complexity for veterans. For instance, Game Informer and games(TM) note that while the core mechanics remain largely unchanged, they are “solid” and “smooth,” offering a fast-paced experience that rewards precise timing and counterplay. The rock-paper-scissors-style gameplay, combo systems, and character-specific moves are frequently lauded, with Ragequit.gr emphasizing its accessibility and gradual learning curve. Additionally, the variety of modes—such as survival, arcade, and tag team battles—adds replayability, as noted by LevelUp and Game Over Online, while Eurogamer Italy praises new characters like Honoka and arenas like Danger Zone for enhancing engagement. The game’s tutorial is also highlighted as thorough, though some critics, like CGMagazine, argue it falls short of fully preparing players for the actual experience. However, several critics point to the game’s lack of innovation and persistent issues. Many note that Last Round retains the same three-button system and mechanics from previous entries, with games(TM) and Gamer.nl criticizing the absence of new modes or significant changes. The combat is described as “dated” by Game Informer, while Cheat Code Central and NZGamer highlight balance problems, such as clear character tiers and stage hazards that disrupt fairness. Online play also faces criticism: LevelUp and Attack of the Fanboy mention lag and unstable matches, though DarkZero praises the 2-on-2 tag battles and smooth netcode. Additionally, some reviewers, like CGMagazine, argue that the game splits players into “combo experts” and “button mashers,” leaving middle-tier players at a disadvantage. The reliance on familiar mechanics without substantial evolution is a recurring concern, with Multiplayer.it and NZGamer noting that the core experience feels stagnant. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dead or Alive 5 Last Round delivers a polished, accessible fighting experience rooted in its established mechanics, but struggles to innovate. While Digital Trends, COGconnected, and Riot Pixels celebrate its deep combo systems, smooth combat, and character variety, many acknowledge it as an incremental update rather than a revolutionary step forward. The game’s strengths—such as its balance of simplicity and complexity, highlighted by X-ONE Magazine UK and God is a Geek—are tempered by criticisms of repetition and online shortcomings. Despite these issues, the majority agree that Last Round remains a strong entry in the series for fans of traditional 2D fighting games, even if it fails to fully evolve beyond its predecessors. As Vandal and Eurogamer Italy note, while there are minor improvements, the game’s core identity feels more like a refinement than a breakthrough.

The graphics and visual design of Dead or Alive 5 Last Round received mixed but largely positive feedback from critics, with several highlighting incremental improvements over prior versions. Many praised the game’s adoption of a new engine, such as Team Ninja’s "Soft Engine," which enhanced character physics, skin realism, and effects like sweat and dirt tracking (e.g., IGN Italia noted smoother bust/glute animations, while CGMagazine highlighted destructible environments and seamless scene transitions). The 1080p/60fps resolution on next-gen consoles was frequently lauded for improving clarity and fluidity (Game Revolution, Digital Trends), with some critics calling it "one of the best-looking fighting games of all time" (Arcade Sushi). Additionally, character models and animations saw refinements, including more detailed textures, dynamic interactions, and improved physics, as noted by GamesVillage.it and Attack of the Fanboy. These upgrades were seen as significant for a series that prioritizes visual spectacle, particularly in its fan service elements. However, several critics pointed out that these improvements were often minor or overshadowed by technical limitations. Many felt the game relied on last-gen technology, with outdated environments, repetitive stage designs, and poorly textured backgrounds (USgamer, Gaming Age). Issues like aliasing, polygonal vertices (e.g., Ayane’s shoulders, as noted by Game Revolution), and flat skin textures persisted despite the 1080p upgrade. The focus on sexualized character designs also drew criticism for being distracting or excessive (Metro GameCentral, Gamer.nl). Some reviewers argued that the game failed to fully leverage next-gen hardware, with LevelUp calling it a "minimal graphical improvement" and Digital Chumps pointing out missing features like the Soft Engine on PC. While certain aspects like interactive objects and environmental hazards added variety (Push Square, Riot Pixels), many felt the overall visual package lacked innovation or a "significant graphical leap" compared to previous entries. The overall consensus among critics was that Dead or Alive 5 Last Round delivered a polished, if unremarkable, visual experience. While it received praise for its improved character models, physics, and resolution on current-gen consoles (IGN Italia, CGMagazine), the lack of substantial upgrades beyond these tweaks led to a sense of missed potential. Critics like Gameblog.fr and DarkZero noted that the game’s visuals "remain largely unchanged" from last-gen releases, with only subtle refinements in lighting, textures, and animations. Despite this, many acknowledged its strengths as a remaster, particularly for fans of the series who appreciated the attention to detail in character design and interactive environments (Arcade Sushi, GamesVillage.it). Ultimately, while the game’s graphics were seen as a step forward for the franchise, they were not groundbreaking, leaving some critics to question whether it fully justified its next-gen port status.

The sound design and music of Dead or Alive 5 Last Round received mixed but generally positive feedback from reviewers, with several praising specific elements. Game Over Online highlighted that while the music is "fine" and forgettable, the sound effects—such as flames and stage-specific atmospherics—enhance immersion and distinguish each environment. Impulsegamer noted the soundtrack’s "K-Pop feel," emphasizing its over-the-top voice acting and effective combat sound effects that align with the game’s energetic style. Push Square also acknowledged "some catchy new tunes" in unlockable content, suggesting that the music, while not groundbreaking, offers engaging moments for players. These critiques underscore the game’s ability to create a vibrant, immersive audio experience through its attention to detail in environmental and combat sounds. However, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings. Impulsegamer criticized the soundtrack’s lack of originality, describing it as relying on "loud and exaggerated tones" rather than innovative compositions. USgamer found the sound effects—like grunts and hiyas—to be "unremarkable," suggesting they failed to elevate the gameplay experience. Meanwhile, Riot Pixels reported technical issues, such as periodic audio problems in story cutscenes, which disrupted immersion. MondoXbox’s observation that the audio remained unchanged from prior versions also hints at a lack of progression or refinement, potentially leaving fans of earlier entries underwhelmed. These critiques highlight concerns about both creative and technical execution, particularly in areas like originality and consistency. Overall, the consensus among critics leans toward a balanced but cautious assessment. While the game’s sound design successfully enhances immersion through environmental details and combat effects—particularly praised by Game Over Online and Impulsegamer—the music itself is seen as unoriginal or forgettable. The inclusion of unlockable content with "catchy tunes" (Push Square) offers some variety, but technical issues and repetitive audio cues (Riot Pixels, USgamer) temper the overall praise. Critics agree that Last Round delivers a functional, if not exceptional, audio experience, with its strengths lying in specific moments rather than a cohesive or innovative soundscape. The lack of significant improvements from previous iterations also suggests that the game’s audio remains more serviceable than groundbreaking.

The voice acting in Dead or Alive 5 Last Round receives mixed but nuanced praise, particularly from critics who acknowledge its stylistic choices. Attack of the Fanboy, reviewing on Xbox One, highlights that the English dub is "solid" and represents a "marked improvement over previous entries," suggesting a step forward in quality compared to earlier games in the series. This positive reception aligns with the game’s campy, over-the-top aesthetic, which some critics argue enhances its playful, fan-service-oriented tone. Impulsegamer notes that the voice acting “contributes to the game’s campy and fan service-oriented atmosphere,” framing it as a deliberate stylistic choice that fits the series’ identity. These perspectives emphasize that while the performances may not be subtlety nuanced, they align with the game’s broader tone and intent. However, the English dub faces significant criticism for being overly exaggerated and mismatched. Hardcore Gamer (PS4) and another Hardcore Gamer (PC) both condemn the voice acting as “heavily criticized for being poor and comically mismatched,” with the former recommending the Japanese option with subtitles to experience the intended emotion. Impulsegamer also describes the performances as “over the top,” acknowledging that while this suits the series’ style, it may feel excessive or jarring for players seeking a more grounded experience. The inconsistency in delivery and emotional authenticity is a recurring concern, particularly for those who prioritize naturalism in voice acting. These critiques suggest that while the dub serves the game’s campy identity, it risks alienating players who find its hyperbolic style unappealing. The overall consensus among critics reflects a split between appreciation for the voice acting’s stylistic boldness and frustration with its execution. While Attack of the Fanboy and others recognize improvements in English dub quality, the majority—particularly Hardcore Gamer and Impulsegamer—highlight its over-the-top nature as a drawback. The availability of a Japanese audio option with subtitles is frequently cited as a solution for those seeking a more authentic experience, indicating that the voice acting’s reception hinges on players’ tolerance for exaggerated performances. Ultimately, the reviews suggest that Dead or Alive 5 Last Round’s voice acting is a polarizing element, best suited for fans of the series’ campy aesthetic rather than those prioritizing subtlety or realism.

The technical performance of Dead or Alive 5 Last Round varies across platforms, with notable positives for the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, while the PC version faces significant challenges. On PS4, multiple critics highlight stable 60fps performance, such as Eurogamer Italy’s mention of consistent 1080p/60fps and IGN Italia’s praise for polished execution despite being a re-release. Game Informer notes smooth gameplay with minor flaws, while GameOver.gr and Push Square commend the controls and online stability. Xbox One also sees positive remarks, particularly after patches: DarkZero mentions expected fixes for bugs, and Metro GameCentral acknowledges improved online functionality. However, some critics like Atomix and MondoXbox highlight persistent crashes and instability. The PC version, while running smoothly at 60fps (as noted by GameStar and Hardcore Gamer), suffers from critical issues like missing online features, awkward keyboard controls, and delayed DLC, as criticized by GameWatcher and GameStar. Negatively, the technical performance of Dead or Alive 5 Last Round is marred by platform-specific flaws. On PS4, critics like Digitally Downloaded and Everyeye.it point to clipping issues, aliasing, and polygonal limitations, while Game Informer and Gamestyle report freezes, crashes, and save data problems. Xbox One faces more severe issues: Atomix and MondoXbox describe frequent crashes and online instability, with Digital Trends noting framerate hiccups during matches. The PC version is particularly problematic, with GameWatcher criticizing the absence of online multiplayer at launch, missing stages, and subpar graphics. Additionally, GamesBeat and NZGamer highlight poor netcode, lag spikes, and technical quirks like the share button malfunctioning. These issues collectively undermine the experience, especially on PC and Xbox One, where optimization lags behind expectations. Overall, critics agree that Dead or Alive 5 Last Round is a technically competent remaster for PS4, with stable performance and minor flaws, but its shortcomings are more pronounced on Xbox One and PC. While Eurogamer Italy and IGN Italia praise the PS4’s polished execution, the Xbox One version struggles with online instability (as noted by Atomix and GamesBeat), and the PC port faces critical issues like missing features and poor controls (GameWatcher, GameStar). Despite these drawbacks, many reviewers acknowledge that the game runs smoothly on its primary platforms, with patches addressing some bugs. However, the technical inconsistencies—particularly on Xbox One and PC—highlight a lack of cohesive optimization, leaving the experience uneven across hardware. The consensus is that while the PS4 version delivers a solid foundation, the title’s technical execution falls short of expectations for next-gen consoles, especially given its age and the demands of modern gaming.

The majority of critics highlight strong replay value in Dead or Alive 5 Last Round due to its extensive content offerings. Reviewers like 3DJuegos, Eurogamer Italy, and Everyeye.it emphasize the game’s large character roster (34–35 fighters), over 300 costumes, multiple modes (arcade, survival, training, etc.), and robust DLC support as key drivers of longevity. Game Informer and IGN Italia note that while the core gameplay remains engaging, the sheer volume of unlockable content—such as new characters, stages, and customization options—provides sustained interest for fans. Additionally, Gaming Nexus and We Got This Covered praise its accessibility and variety, catering to both casual players and dedicated enthusiasts through features like tutorials, combo challenges, and online play. The game’s emphasis on content quantity over innovation is seen as a double-edged sword, but many critics agree it offers substantial replayability for those who prioritize depth. However, several reviewers criticize the lack of substantive new content and repetitive elements that limit long-term appeal. Arcade Sushi and Hardcore Gamer argue that the game feels underwhelming, with only two new characters and stages, relying heavily on clones and cosmetic updates rather than meaningful additions. Multiplayer.it and InsideGamer.nl suggest that veterans may find the unchanged story mode and repetitive mechanics unengaging, while God is a Geek and ZTGD point to excessive DLC as a drawback, complicating long-term engagement. Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Universe also note that aging combat systems and confusing narrative elements reduce replayability for some players. Critics like GameOver.gr and COGconnected acknowledge the game’s variety but highlight that its reliance on existing content from prior iterations may not justify repeated playthroughs for those already familiar with the series. Overall, the consensus leans toward moderate to strong replay value, particularly for newcomers and fans of the franchise, though opinions diverge on whether the content justifies the price. While 3DJuegos, Eurogamer Italy, and Gamestyle celebrate the game’s depth and accessibility, critics like Arcade Sushi and InsideGamer.nl question its value for veterans. The DLC-driven model is a contentious point: while it extends engagement for some (USgamer), others see it as exploitative (God is a Geek). Ultimately, Last Round succeeds in offering diverse gameplay experiences but faces criticism for relying on quantity over innovation, leaving its replayability dependent on individual preferences for content variety versus mechanical evolution.