Guilty Gear -Strive-

The story mode of Guilty Gear -Strive- receives praise for its cinematic quality, detailed character models, and rich lore, particularly among long-time fans of the franchise. Critics like IGN highlight that the narrative serves as a culmination of the series’ decades-long storytelling, offering a satisfying conclusion to Sol Badguy’s arc and deepening the universe’s complexity. TheXboxHub and Eurogamer Italy commend its anime-style presentation, noting the visually stunning cutscenes and engaging world-building. Additionally, GameSpew acknowledges the intricate lore and character introductions, while IGN Portugal praises the technical execution of character models and textures. The mode’s focus on storytelling, even without gameplay, is seen as a bold choice that aligns with the series’ identity for dedicated fans. However, several critics criticize the story mode for its lack of interactivity and accessibility issues. Gamers’ Temple and GameMAG point out that it feels like a "long anime" with minimal player engagement, while GamingTrend and TheGamer describe it as confusing for newcomers due to its reliance on prior knowledge of the franchise’s lore. GameSpew and Gamer.no note the convoluted plot and pacing issues, with some calling it "nonsensical" or "baffling." The absence of gameplay elements is a recurring complaint, with Multiplayer.it and BaziCenter arguing that it misses opportunities for more dynamic single-player content. Additionally, GameMAG highlights the lack of Russian translation as a barrier for non-English speakers, further limiting its appeal to a broader audience. Overall, the critics’ opinions are split between appreciation for the story mode’s cinematic ambition and frustration with its passive nature. While veterans and series fans celebrate its depth, lore, and visual craftsmanship—as noted by IGN, Eurogamer Italy, and SpazioGames—others view it as a missed opportunity to integrate gameplay into the narrative. The consensus leans toward it being a polarizing but essential experience for Guilty Gear enthusiasts, with GameSpot and LevelUp acknowledging its value for those familiar with the franchise’s history. For newcomers, however, the mode often feels alienating due to its complexity and lack of interactivity, creating a divide between hardcore fans and casual players.

The gameplay of Guilty Gear -Strive- is widely praised for its accessibility, depth, and innovative mechanics. Critics highlight its balanced approach to catering to both newcomers and veterans, with many noting that the game’s systems are “easy to learn, difficult to master” (NME) while maintaining a high skill ceiling. Newcomers benefit from streamlined inputs, tutorials, and mission modes (Gfinity, Atomix), which help them grasp fundamentals without feeling overwhelmed. The introduction of mechanics like Roman Cancels, Wall Breaks, and the Tension gauge adds layers of strategy, allowing for creative playstyles (Gamepressure, COGconnected). Reviews emphasize the game’s dynamic combat, with fast-paced action, impactful attacks, and a focus on footsies and neutral game (CGMagazine, Screen Rant). The diversity of characters, each with unique abilities and playstyles, further enriches the experience (Player 2, Multiplayer.it). Critics like IGN Italia and GameSkinny praise its “top-tier” combat, while Cubed3 and GamingTrend commend its ability to balance accessibility with technical depth. However, some criticisms emerge regarding specific design choices. A few reviewers note that the game’s simplification of mechanics, such as shorter combos and the removal of the Gatling system, may disappoint fans of earlier entries (GameSpot, PlaySense). The exclusion of a combo challenge mode is particularly highlighted as a missed opportunity (ZTGD). Additionally, while tutorials are praised for their comprehensiveness (Gfinity, Atomix), some critics argue that complex inputs and a lack of guidance in certain areas could frustrate new players (GamingTrend, Gamer.no). The slower pace compared to previous titles, though appreciated by some for its strategic emphasis (God is a Geek, NME), is seen as a trade-off that may not appeal to all. Furthermore, the game’s challenging nature, despite its accessibility features, is noted as a potential barrier for less experienced players (Gamer.no, Hobby Consolas). Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority celebrating Guilty Gear -Strive- as a standout entry in the fighting genre. The game’s ability to merge simplicity with depth, paired with its fresh mechanics and character diversity, has earned it widespread acclaim. While some critiques about pacing, simplification, and accessibility hurdles exist, these are often framed as minor trade-offs in an otherwise polished experience. Reviews from GameSkinny, Screen Rant, and IGN Portugal underscore its “deep and rewarding” combat system, while Cubed3 and PlayStation Universe highlight its appeal across skill levels. The game’s evolution—retaining the series’ core identity while innovating—has solidified its reputation as a must-play for fighting fans, with critics like TheGamer and MGG noting its success in balancing tradition with modern accessibility.

The Graphics and Visual Design of Guilty Gear -Strive- have been universally celebrated as a triumph, with nearly every critic highlighting its stunning artistry and technical execution. Reviewers consistently praised the game’s vibrant anime-inspired aesthetic, noting its seamless blend of 3D character models with hand-drawn animation, which creates a "visually stunning experience reminiscent of playing an anime" (PlaySense). The character designs are described as "inventive," "unique," and "phenomenal," with critics like IGN Italia and Eurogamer Italy emphasizing the striking detail in both characters and backgrounds. The use of cel-shading, dynamic camera angles, and explosive special moves further elevates the visual spectacle, with Push Square calling it "the best looking fighting game ever made" and GameSpew hailing it as "possibly the best-looking fighting game ever." The game’s ability to balance 2.5D gameplay with next-gen graphics—thanks to Unreal Engine and PS5 hardware—has been a standout feature, with Noisy Pixel noting its "cutting-edge 2.5D graphics" and Cubed3 praising its "stunning backdrops and character designs." While the majority of critiques are overwhelmingly positive, some minor criticisms emerged regarding specific aspects of the visual design. A few reviewers pointed to issues with the user interface (UI), such as IGN Italia noting the "minimalistic and somewhat out-of-place" HUD, while Jeuxvideo.com criticized readability during fights due to dark shadows on certain stages and a cluttered interface. Additionally, Vandal mentioned that the number of arenas is fewer than in previous titles, and Worth Playing noted that large text and numbers could be distracting for some players. The PS4 version also faced scrutiny for slightly less vibrant graphics compared to the PS5, as highlighted by Merlin'in Kazanı. Furthermore, GameMAG pointed out the absence of alternative costumes as a missed opportunity, though these critiques were generally seen as minor drawbacks in an otherwise exceptional visual package. The overall consensus among critics is that Guilty Gear -Strive- represents a masterclass in fighting game visuals, with many declaring it the best-looking entry in the franchise and the genre. Multiple outlets, including Push Square, GameSpew, and COGconnected, lauded its "phenomenal" art direction and "stylish" presentation, while Cubed3 and IGN Portugal emphasized its status as a benchmark for 2D fighting games. Despite the few technical or design shortcomings, these were consistently framed as negligible compared to the game’s artistic achievements. As The Mako Reactor put it, the visuals are "phenomenal" with "no complaints," encapsulating the widespread admiration for Strive’s ability to merge bold anime aesthetics with cutting-edge technology in a way that feels both innovative and true to its roots.

The majority of critics overwhelmingly praise the sound design and music of Guilty Gear -Strive-, highlighting its energetic rock and metal soundtrack as a defining strength. Reviewers like Critical Hit and Eurogamer Italy emphasize the "heavy metal guitar licks" and "unrelenting style," with Gaming Age calling the soundtrack "one of the best in a video game" and even considering purchasing it separately. The character themes are frequently noted for their memorability, as Easy Allies and SpazioGames point out, while IGN acknowledges the "bull blazing" intensity of the music. Tracks like Smell of the Game (mentioned by Eurogamer Italy and Gamer.no) and the series’ signature rock influence (cited by Metro GameCentral and The Mako Reactor) are celebrated for their ability to elevate the combat experience. Additionally, Noisy Pixel and PlayStation Universe commend the diversity of rock subgenres and the "catchy" nature of the tracks, which seamlessly blend with the game’s fast-paced action. While the consensus is largely positive, some critics note minor drawbacks. ZTGD criticizes the gacha-based system for unlocking songs, calling it "frustrating," while Cubed3 suggests that certain character themes feel less distinct from the series’ traditional identity. PLAY! Zine mentions that "some songs are lackluster," and IGN acknowledges that the heavy rock vocals might not appeal to all players. Additionally, MGG points out that the soundtrack’s intense rock/metal focus could deter those unfamiliar with the genre, though it also notes the inclusion of older tracks as a redeeming feature. Worth Playing highlights that every song has lyrics, which some may find overwhelming during high-intensity gameplay. These critiques, while valid, are overshadowed by the general acclaim for the soundtrack’s innovation and impact. Overall, the critics agree that Guilty Gear -Strive-’s sound design and music are exceptional, with GamingBolt calling it "excellent" and The Mako Reactor dubbing it a "strong contender for the best soundtrack of 2021." Even reviewers who mention minor flaws, like Cubed3 or IGN, acknowledge the soundtrack’s broader strengths. The combination of adrenaline-pumping rock/metal tracks, memorable character themes, and immersive audio design has solidified the game’s reputation as a standout in the fighting genre. As Gameblog.fr and Gamer.no note, the music not only complements the gameplay but also enhances the overall atmosphere, making it a key component of the game’s identity. Despite some niche criticisms, the overwhelming majority of reviewers celebrate Guilty Gear -Strive-’s soundtrack as a triumph, reflecting its importance to the series’ legacy.

The voice acting in Guilty Gear -Strive receives largely positive feedback from multiple reviewers, with several highlighting its quality and contribution to the game’s immersive experience. Areajugones praises the dub as "destacado" (notable) and integral to the "placentera experiencia audiovisual," emphasizing its role in enhancing the game’s presentation. GamingBolt notes that the English voice acting is "fairly solid," while PLAY! Zine commends the "solid" performances in both English and Japanese, with the latter described as "more natural" and featuring "better actors." SpazioGames and The Mako Reactor also commend the voice acting for its "well-executed" delivery and "impactful" nature, respectively. IGN France specifically highlights memorable lines like the iconic "Heaven or Hell" opening, which adds to the game’s atmosphere. These reviews collectively underscore the technical proficiency and emotional depth of the voice work, particularly in cutscenes and character interactions. While most critics praise the voice acting, some express nuanced reservations, primarily regarding the English dub’s perceived inferiority to its Japanese counterpart. Gamers’ Temple explicitly states that "the English dialogue is inferior to the original Japanese," reflecting a common sentiment among fans of the series who prefer the authenticity of the Japanese voices. GamingBolt and PLAY! Zine also note a preference for the Japanese version, with the latter citing its "more natural" delivery. Additionally, GamingTrend acknowledges that while the English voice acting is "great," the story’s complexity may confuse newcomers, indirectly suggesting that the dialogue’s clarity or tone might not fully resonate with all audiences. These critiques highlight a subtle divide in perception between the two language options, though they do not detract from the overall quality of the voice work. The overall consensus among critics leans toward appreciation for both English and Japanese voice acting, with a strong preference for the latter. While several reviewers, including GamingBolt, PLAY! Zine, and Gamers’ Temple, acknowledge that the English dub is "solid" or "impressive," they consistently argue that the Japanese voices offer a more natural and immersive experience. This preference is rooted in the cultural authenticity and vocal performances of the original cast, which many feel elevate the game’s storytelling. At the same time, The Mako Reactor and IGN France emphasize that both dubs are worth experiencing, with the English version holding its own in terms of impact and execution. Ultimately, the reviews reflect a balanced view: while the Japanese voice acting is celebrated as superior, the English dub is recognized as a commendable effort that enhances the game’s accessibility and appeal to a broader audience.

The technical performance of Guilty Gear -Strive receives strong praise for its netcode and overall stability across all platforms, with notable strengths on PS5 and Xbox Series X. Critics like IGN and GameSpot highlight the game’s "flawless" rollback netcode, which ensures smooth online matches with minimal lag, even during high-stakes ranked battles. On PS5, Jeuxvideo.com notes the game runs at a consistent 60fps with no technical issues, while IGN France and Eurogamer Italy commend its stable frame rates and regional connectivity. The Xbox Series X also receives positive feedback, with TheXboxHub stating the netcode is "stable" and the game runs smoothly overall. For PS4, MGG Spain and GameOver.gr report minimal lag and stable connections, though some acknowledge limitations compared to newer hardware. Overall, the technical foundation of Strive is widely regarded as robust, with critics like Noisy Pixel praising its "state-of-the-art rollback netcode" and Cubed3 calling it a "shining example" of how rollback can elevate online play. However, several platform-specific issues detract from the experience. On PS5, while the core technical performance is strong, critics like GamingTrend and TheSixthAxis criticize the online lobby system for being "barebones," "uninspiring," and "shockingly ugly," with long server check times and clunky navigation. IGN Italia and Gameblog.fr note that PS4 users face more pronounced technical hurdles, including lower resolution, frame rate drops, and extended loading times, which undermine the gameplay experience. LevelUp and Multiplayer.it highlight PS4’s problematic matchmaking and server connectivity, while Worth Playing mentions "slow" sprite lobbies. On Xbox Series X, while performance is praised, there are fewer critiques, suggesting it avoids many of the platform-specific pitfalls seen on PS5 and PS4. The overarching issue across all platforms remains the online lobby system, which Shindig and Gameblog.fr describe as "frustrating" and "time-consuming," despite the game’s strong netcode. The overall consensus among critics is that Guilty Gear -Strive delivers exceptional technical performance, particularly in its rollback netcode, which sets a new standard for fighting games. Wccftech and Push Square laud the netcode as "in a league far above most mainstream fighting games," while GameSkinny calls it "rock-solid." However, the online lobby system is a recurring pain point, with GamingTrend, TheSixthAxis, and Jeuxvideo.com all criticizing its design for hindering usability. While PS5 users benefit from smoother optimization and better visuals, PS4’s technical limitations are more pronounced, though still manageable. The Xbox Series X version appears to strike a balance, offering stability without the same level of platform-specific issues. Despite these flaws, most critics agree that Strive’s core mechanics and netcode justify its release, with many expecting future patches to refine the online experience further.

The reviewers generally praise the online multiplayer and variety of modes as key strengths contributing to Guilty Gear -Strive-'s replay value. Critics like LevelUp, Critical Hit, and COGconnected highlight the engaging competitive experience, with Critical Hit noting the game’s potential to remain in players’ libraries if matchmaking improves. The dynamic Arcade mode (described as more replayable than traditional examples by COGconnected) and diverse offline modes such as Mission Mode, Survival, and Training are also celebrated. IGN France and Eurogamer Italy emphasize the game’s depth through character variety and combat mechanics, while SpazioGames points to future content via a season pass. Online features like rollback netcode, replays, and customizable lobbies (noted by Worth Playing and TheXboxHub) further enhance engagement for competitive players. However, the single-player content is widely criticized as lacking, significantly limiting replay value for solo players. Push Square, Gamer.no, and MGG describe the single-player modes as “not bad but not great,” with Jeuxvideo.com specifically pointing out the absence of beloved features like M.O.M. mode and challenge mode. Metro GameCentral and NME note the limited character roster and repetitive missions, while GamingBolt criticizes the frustrating “fishing mechanic” for unlockables. CGMagazine and Gameblog.fr highlight the lack of depth in offline modes, such as the absence of custom intros or endings in arcade mode, which diminishes long-term appeal. Even GameSpew and Worth Playing mention issues like slow lobby systems or bloated training options, further underscoring the uneven experience for solo players. The overall consensus is that Guilty Gear -Strive- offers strong replay value through its online multiplayer, but single-player content falls short of expectations. While critics like IGN Spain and Gamers’ Temple acknowledge the game’s variety of modes and characters, many (including GameOver.gr and Eurogamer Italy) express concerns about the lack of substantial offline content. The game’s longevity hinges on its competitive scene and future updates, as noted by God is a Geek and SpazioGames, but solo players may find it less satisfying. Despite mixed feedback, the combination of online engagement, technical polish, and potential for growth through DLC suggests that the game will appeal most to those prioritizing multiplayer over single-player depth.