#Streets of rage 4 switch review series#

Typical beat ’em ups aren’t known for their length. This can make particular in-game moments feel intensely cinematic as the animation and soundtrack created an excellent experience. Instead of one constant theme throughout a stage, it will morph seamlessly to fit the scenario and your progression.

#Streets of rage 4 switch review series#

The series is known for its iconic tunes, and this one doesn’t disappoint. It all comes together for a very cohesive art direction and one that is a complete joy to look at.Īccompanying these visuals is an energetic electronic soundtrack. Cutscenes are broken into comic-like panels and fit nicely between stages. Character design and the game’s overall aesthetic is awe-inspiring.īackgrounds rarely, if ever, repeat and are comprised of detailed environmental illustrations throughout the entire journey. All characters are hand-drawn with vivid 2D animation making subtle tells of an opponent’s incoming attack more discernible. A big part of this may be due to the beautiful visuals. The gameplay is mostly unchanged from previous installments but feels drastically smoother and more precise.

Still, it’s not a big issue when unlockable characters maintain these features. I’m sure it would have messed with the difficulty balance, but I did at times find myself wishing my character would pick up the pace a bit. Missing this time around are the duck and roll maneuvers and run for all base characters aside from Cherry. Thankfully, you can select a different character at the beginning of each stage, giving you a chance to mix up your play style. Different stages are made easier with certain characters and more of a challenge for others, encouraging you to experiment with the roster.

New characters like the speedy but weak guitar-wielding Cherry and the slow but strong Cybernetic Floyd are a blast to control and provides some gameplay variety apart from the more balanced Blaze and Axel. It’s an incredibly satisfying move and one that makes you look super skilled when you pull it off. When throwing a weapon at an opponent, you have the chance to catch it again as it ricochets off them. Any weapon can be thrown, but a cool new feature is the “mid-air grab”. In addition to these attacks, you also have limited star moves, which deal massive damage and typically have a wide hit range. Even attempting to use specials strategically can feel like a bit of a gamble, but this makes for more exciting and rewarding gameplay than specials in past games. However, if you are hit during this period, your health won’t restore. You can regain this health as long as you inflict damage against opponents. Along with your standard attack, you also have a powerful special move that takes off a portion of your health. It’s a brief and straightforward scenario, but it’s as good of an excuse as any to get you back on the streets and punching again.īeat ’em up standards like melee weapons, health regaining street food, and hoards of enemies attempting to overwhelm you are all here. Blaze and Axel return, along with a few new characters to try and reclaim the streets and restore peace to the city. The leaders of this gang are thought to be none other than Mr. X, a new crime wave has hit Wood Oak City. Taking place ten years after the death of the series main villain Mr.