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Guilty Gear -Strive-

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Guilty Gear -Strive-
Item: Guilty Gear -Strive-
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresSide View Perspective, Fighting, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableJun 8, 2021

PlatformPlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X

DeveloperArc System Works

Overview

Discover the Smell of the Game with Guilty Gear: Strive! Immerse yourself in new gameplay mechanics designed to be simple and welcoming for fighting game newcomers, yet deep and creative for veterans. Ride the Fire into a heavy metal inspired alternate future full of over-the-top action, style and fun!

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Guilty Gear -Strive-'s story mode impresses with stunning animation and a rich narrative that wraps up classic character arcs while introducing new ones. However, it’s criticized for being more of a lengthy animated film than an interactive experience, which may alienate players seeking engagement, especially newcomers who struggle with the complex lore. While praised for its artistry, the lack of gameplay and accessibility issues hinder its appeal to a wider audience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story mode of Guilty Gear -Strive- has received praise for its high production values and engaging narrative. Many critics, such as Eurogamer Italy and The Mako Reactor, highlight the beautiful animation and cinematic quality that resemble an anime series, making it visually appealing. The narrative itself is described as rich and engaging, effectively concluding the arcs of beloved characters like Sol Badguy while introducing new ones, as noted by Gamer.nl and PlaySense. Critics like Wccftech and SpazioGames appreciate how the story mode provides a comprehensive overview of the series' lore, aided by glossaries and timelines that enhance the experience for players who are familiar with the franchise. However, the story mode has faced significant criticism for its lack of interactivity and gameplay. Many reviewers, including Gamer.no and Multiplayer.it, express disappointment that the mode is essentially a lengthy animated film rather than a playable experience, which may alienate players seeking more engagement. The complexity of the narrative is another sticking point, with critics like GamingTrend and Digitally Downloaded noting that newcomers to the series may find it confusing and difficult to follow without prior knowledge of the lore. Furthermore, the pacing and the absence of gameplay elements have been pointed out as drawbacks, leading to a feeling of disconnection from the gaming experience, as mentioned by Areajugones and GameMAG. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Guilty Gear -Strive- offers a visually stunning and narratively rich story mode, it largely caters to long-time fans of the series. The lack of interactivity and the reliance on prior knowledge create barriers for newcomers, making the experience feel less accessible. Critics like IGN and Hardcore Gamer emphasize that the cinematic approach may not resonate with all players, especially those expecting a more traditional fighting game experience. Thus, while the story mode is celebrated for its artistic execution and depth, it simultaneously faces challenges in engaging a broader audience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Guilty Gear -Strive- impresses with its exciting gameplay, balancing accessibility for newcomers and depth for veterans. Critics praise new mechanics like Wall Break and streamlined combos, enhancing combat while effective tutorials help new players learn fast. However, some hardcore fans feel the simplification may detract from the franchise's traditional complexity, with mixed reactions to the removal of certain mechanics. Despite these concerns, the overall consensus is positive, highlighting Strive as a polished, engaging fighting game that successfully retains the series' essence while appealing to a broad audience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Guilty Gear -Strive- has been overwhelmingly praised by critics, who highlight its exciting and engaging nature. Reviewers from Destructoid and IGN Spain emphasize the game's balance between accessibility for newcomers and depth for veterans, making it appealing to a wide audience. The introduction of new mechanics, such as the Wall Break and streamlined combo systems, has been positively received, with critics like GameSpot and Easy Allies noting how these changes enhance the overall combat experience. The tutorials and Mission Mode have also been commended for effectively guiding new players, as mentioned by GameOver.gr and Atomix, ensuring that even those unfamiliar with fighting games can quickly grasp the fundamentals. Many reviewers, including Push Square and MGG, appreciate the high skill ceiling and the intricate yet approachable mechanics that allow for strategic depth and rewarding gameplay. Despite the positive reception, some critics have pointed out that the gameplay simplification may alienate hardcore fans of the franchise. For instance, Gameblog.fr and Gamer.no note that while the game is more accessible, it may feel overly simplified for those who enjoyed the complexity of previous entries. The removal of certain mechanics, such as the Gatling system, has drawn mixed reactions, with some feeling it detracts from the series' traditional depth, as highlighted by GameSpot. Additionally, while many found the gameplay engaging, a few critics, like ZTGD, expressed disappointment over the absence of a combo challenge mode, which could have provided an additional layer of training for players looking to master the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Guilty Gear -Strive- delivers a compelling and polished fighting experience that successfully balances accessibility and depth. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game's mechanics, with many noting that it retains the essence of the Guilty Gear series while appealing to both new and veteran players. Critics like GameMAG and Hardcore Gamer encapsulate this sentiment by praising the game's refined systems and the engaging nature of its combat. While some concerns about simplification exist, they do not overshadow the general enthusiasm for the gameplay, which is characterized as both fun and rewarding, making Guilty Gear -Strive- a standout title in the fighting game genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Guilty Gear -Strive- is hailed as a visual masterpiece, with stunning graphics, exceptional character designs, and fluid animations that elevate the fighting game genre. Critics rave about its jaw-dropping visuals and dynamic action, though some note minor flaws like a minimal HUD and readability issues in darker stages. Despite slight criticisms, it sets a new standard for visual design in fighting games, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

99%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Guilty Gear -Strive- is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising its stunning visual presentation and artistic direction. Many reviewers, including Digitally Downloaded and Hardcore Gamer, highlighted the exceptional character designs, smooth animations, and beautifully crafted backgrounds that contribute to an immersive fighting experience. The use of cel-shading and 3D visuals enhances the anime aesthetic, as noted by Metro GameCentral and COGconnected, who described the visuals as "jaw-dropping" and "gob-smacking gorgeous." Critics like TheSixthAxis and Gaming Age emphasized the vibrant and explosive nature of the fights, showcasing the game's ability to blend dynamic action with striking visuals, making it one of the most visually impressive fighting games available. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics pointed out a few shortcomings. IGN Italia mentioned that the minimalistic HUD could feel out of place, while Jeuxvideo.com raised concerns about readability issues during fights, particularly on stages with darker shadows. Additionally, GameMAG noted a missed opportunity regarding the lack of alternative costumes, which could have further enhanced the visual variety. While the majority of critics celebrated the game's graphics, a few, such as PLAY! Zine, mentioned that some scenes in story mode lacked detail, indicating that not every aspect of the visual presentation was flawless. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Guilty Gear -Strive- represents a masterpiece in visual design, setting a new standard for the genre. The game has received accolades for its artistic direction, character models, and fluid animations, with many reviewers, including Push Square and Cubed3, declaring it the best-looking fighting game ever made. While minor criticisms exist, they do little to detract from the overall impression that Guilty Gear -Strive- is a visually stunning achievement that successfully captures the essence of anime while delivering a captivating gameplay experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Guilty Gear -Strive- boasts an electrifying soundtrack that critics rave about, praising its heavy metal compositions and immersive sound design as game-changers for the genre. While some find the vocal-heavy tracks excessive and criticize the unlocking mechanism for songs, the consensus is clear: the music, crafted by Daisuke Ishiwatari, elevates the gaming experience and is a strong contender for best soundtrack of the year, solidifying the game's identity in the Guilty Gear franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Guilty Gear -Strive- have garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, who have highlighted the game's energetic and engaging soundtrack as a standout feature. Many reviewers, including those from Critical Hit and Eurogamer Italy, praised the heavy metal compositions, with the latter specifically noting memorable tracks like "Smell of the Game" that enhance the overall gaming experience. Areajugones emphasized how the soundtrack complements the combat, adding adrenaline to battles, while Gaming Age described the sound effects as "skull crushing," further elevating the immersive experience. The consensus among critics is that the music, composed by Daisuke Ishiwatari, not only fits the game's aesthetic but also serves to enhance the emotional and atmospheric depth of the gameplay, making it a strong contender for the best soundtrack of the year. Despite the largely positive reception, some critics pointed out a few drawbacks. IGN noted that while the heavy rock soundtrack is exhilarating, it may not appeal to everyone, suggesting that the vocal-heavy tracks could be excessive for some players. Additionally, PLAY! Zine mentioned a mix in quality, with some songs being lackluster compared to the standout tracks. There were also concerns about the unlocking mechanism for songs, which some found frustrating, as highlighted by ZTGD. Furthermore, while many praised the sound design, a few reviews, such as GameOver.gr, did not delve deeply into specifics, indicating that there may be areas where the audio experience could be more thoroughly explored. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Guilty Gear -Strive- excels in its sound design and music, with the majority considering it a significant achievement in the fighting game genre. Critics like The Mako Reactor and Hardcore Gamer emphasized the soundtrack's ability to enhance the gameplay experience, with many noting its potential to become iconic within the series. The combination of heavy metal influences and character-specific themes has resonated well with players, creating an engaging atmosphere that complements the game's fast-paced action. While there are minor criticisms regarding accessibility and song quality, the overwhelming sentiment is that the sound design and music are integral to the game's identity and appeal, solidifying its status as a noteworthy installment in the Guilty Gear franchise.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Guilty Gear -Strive- is widely praised for enhancing immersion and character development, with both English and Japanese options receiving commendations. Critics highlight memorable performances that elevate the game's atmosphere, though some prefer the Japanese voices due to a perceived lack of depth in the English localization. Overall, despite minor criticisms, the voice acting is a standout feature, significantly contributing to the game's appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Guilty Gear -Strive- has received a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its contribution to the game's immersive experience. Areajugones praised the dubbing as "outstanding," noting its role in enhancing the audiovisual pleasure of the game. Similarly, SpazioGames emphasized the well-executed voice acting, which significantly contributes to character development and overall immersion. The Mako Reactor also commended the impressive English dub, suggesting that both English and Japanese voice acting options are worth exploring. Critics like IGN France pointed out memorable lines that enhance the game's atmosphere, underscoring the effectiveness of the voice performances in bringing the characters to life. However, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting, particularly concerning the English localization. GamingBolt expressed a preference for the Japanese voices, indicating that while the English voice acting is solid, it may not fully capture the essence of the characters as intended. Gamers' Temple echoed this sentiment, stating that the English dialogue is inferior to the original Japanese. Additionally, while GamingTrend acknowledged the quality of the English voice acting, they noted that the story's plot can be confusing for newcomers, which may detract from the overall experience. PLAY! Zine also pointed out that while the voice acting is solid, the Japanese performances are perceived as more natural and feature better actors. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Guilty Gear -Strive- offers a commendable voice acting experience, with both English and Japanese options available to players. While there are some reservations about the English localization, particularly in comparison to the original Japanese, the voice acting is largely seen as impactful and well-executed. Critics like God is a Geek and IGN France highlighted the voice acting's ability to enhance the game's character and atmosphere, indicating that it plays a vital role in the overall enjoyment of the game. Ultimately, the voice acting in Guilty Gear -Strive- is regarded as a strong aspect of the game, contributing positively to its overall presentation and player engagement.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Guilty Gear -Strive- shines on PS5 with stellar 60 FPS at 4K and top-notch rollback netcode, earning praise from critics for its smooth online play. However, the online lobby system is a major letdown, suffering from clunky designs and frustrating matchmaking. While overall performance is impressive, persistent loading issues and barebones functionality suggest the game needs updates to fully realize its potential across platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Guilty Gear -Strive- across various platforms has garnered a largely positive reception, particularly for the PlayStation 5 (PS5) version. Many critics, including IGN and Eurogamer Italy, praised the game for its impressive 60 FPS at 4K resolution, highlighting the robust rollback netcode that ensures smooth online matches even under challenging conditions. Reviewers like Wccftech and Push Square emphasized the exceptional quality of the netcode, calling it one of the best in the fighting game genre. Additionally, several critics, such as Noisy Pixel and The Mako Reactor, noted the overall stability and polished performance of the game, which contributes to a satisfying gameplay experience. On the PlayStation 4 (PS4), critics like Gamer.nl and Everyeye.it also acknowledged the solid performance and smooth online play, thanks to the rollback netcode. Despite the strong technical performance, there are notable criticisms regarding the online experience across both the PS5 and PS4 versions. Critics such as GamingTrend and TheSixthAxis pointed out the barebones online functionality and the clunky, visually unappealing lobby systems, which can lead to frustrating matchmaking experiences. Long loading times were mentioned by PLAY! Zine and MGG, detracting from the overall enjoyment, while others like Shindig and Worth Playing highlighted the time-consuming nature of entering matches due to the lobby system's complexity. On the PS4, reviewers like LevelUp and Comicbook.com echoed similar sentiments about server connectivity issues and the difficulties in finding players in lobbies, which can hinder the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Guilty Gear -Strive- showcases remarkable technical performance, particularly on the PS5, with a strong emphasis on rollback netcode that enhances online play. However, the online lobby system and matchmaking processes are seen as significant drawbacks that need improvement. While many critics, including those from IGN and GameSpot, commend the game's smooth gameplay and robust netcode, the persistent issues with loading times and lobby functionality indicate that further updates and patches may be necessary to elevate the overall experience for players on both platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Guilty Gear -Strive-" shines in online multiplayer with features like rollback netcode and skill-based matchmaking, offering diverse modes and future DLC potential. However, it falters in single-player content, lacking depth and robust offline challenges, which may drive solo players away. Critics agree that while the game excels in competitive play, it needs to enhance offline experiences to boost overall replay value and appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of "Guilty Gear -Strive-" present a nuanced picture, highlighting several positive aspects that appeal to players. Many critics, such as Hobby Consolas and Gamer.no, praise the engaging online multiplayer experience, which is bolstered by features like rollback netcode and skill-based matchmaking. The game offers a variety of modes, including Arcade, Survival, and Mission modes, which provide opportunities for players to hone their skills and explore different character styles. Critics like SpazioGames and Cubed3 also note the potential for future content through DLCs, which can enhance replayability and keep the community engaged. Additionally, the extensive training tools and galleries for artwork and soundtracks contribute to a rich experience for dedicated fans. However, the reviews also emphasize significant shortcomings, particularly concerning the single-player content. Many critics, including Metro GameCentral and Gamer.nl, express concerns about the limited offline modes, which may deter solo players from returning to the game after initial playthroughs. The absence of robust single-player challenges, such as a comprehensive challenge mode or custom intros, is noted by critics like CGMagazine and Jeuxvideo.com, who argue that this lack of depth undermines the game's overall replay value. The consensus indicates that while the multiplayer aspect is strong, the game falls short in providing sufficient content for those who prefer to play offline, leading to a less satisfying experience for solo gamers. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that "Guilty Gear -Strive-" excels in its competitive online offerings but struggles to provide adequate replay value for players seeking engaging single-player content. Critics like IGN France and Push Square highlight that the game’s appeal largely hinges on its online modes, with many lamenting the lack of depth in offline experiences. While the game does offer a solid foundation with various modes and potential for future content, the limited single-player offerings may alienate a segment of the player base, suggesting that balancing both multiplayer and single-player experiences could enhance the game's longevity and appeal.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding Guilty Gear -Strive- is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its accessibility, depth, and stunning visuals. Reviewers like Critical Hit and GameOver.gr highlight the game's ability to cater to both newcomers and veterans, making it a welcoming entry point into the franchise. The visuals are frequently lauded, with critics such as Gaming Age and Metro GameCentral calling it one of the best-looking games ever made. The energetic combat and vibrant soundtrack also receive accolades, with GameSpew and IGN praising the engaging gameplay experience. Additionally, the netcode has been noted as brilliant, enhancing the online multiplayer experience, which is a significant aspect for many players. However, there are some criticisms that detract from the overall experience. Several reviewers, including Gamer.no and Gfinity, point out that while Guilty Gear -Strive- excels in many areas, it suffers from content limitations, particularly in solo play. The online matchmaking system has been criticized by Critical Hit and others as needing improvement, which could affect the game's longevity for competitive players. Additionally, some veterans may find the gameplay changes and simplified mechanics less appealing, as noted by NME and Shindig, suggesting that the game may not fully satisfy those looking for a more traditional fighting game experience. Despite these drawbacks, the overall consensus among critics is that Guilty Gear -Strive- is a significant and successful entry in the fighting game genre. Reviewers like Push Square and Easy Allies describe it as a defining moment for the series, with many recommending it highly for both new players and series veterans. The game is praised for its thoughtful design, balancing accessibility with depth, which is a recurring theme in reviews by GameMAG and IGN. Overall, Guilty Gear -Strive- is seen as a must-try title, revitalizing the franchise and setting a high standard for future fighting games.

TL;DR

Guilty Gear -Strive- is a visually stunning and accessible fighting game that impresses critics with its depth and energetic gameplay. While it welcomes newcomers and offers a brilliant online experience, it faces criticism for limited solo content and a matchmaking system needing improvement. Despite some veteran dissatisfaction with gameplay changes, it's hailed as a significant franchise revival and a must-play for all fighting game fans.

MONSTER

Reviews

144 reviews found

100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 5

Jun 15, 2021