BEST FIGHTER
Previous Winner
2018: Soulcalibur VI
When it came to Best Fighter this year we definitely were taken on a wild ride. From games being toned down, and companies trying to please casual fighting fans and more hardcore fans alike, there was a lot going on. In true fighting fashion several opponents entered the ring in competition to win our awards, but only one can come out on top. Without further ado, let’s see which contenders dug deep and won us over as Best Fighter for 2019.
In no particular order…
Fantasy Strike
NA Release Date: July 25th, 2019
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, Linux, macOS, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch
Fantasy Strike’s goal was to be a fighter for everyone, with controls that were easy to pick up and play for those looking for a quick good time, but hard to truly master for those who enjoy figuring out the ins and outs of it all. There are tutorials, various modes, and multiplayer to make any fighting game player happy and provide hours of gameplay.
SAMURAI SHODOWN
NA Release Date: June 25, 2019
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
It had been 11 years since the last installment of SAMURAI SHODOWN where fans were brought a brand new game featuring high end visuals and gameplay. The team behind this one reproduced all of the game mechanics and atmosphere that made the previous titles a success while updating other areas to make the game current. The story is set one year before the first installment and offers a diverse cast of returning and new characters who cross paths while fulfilling their destinies. An easy contender for Best Fighter.
DOA 6
NA Release Date: March 1st, 2019
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Review
We all remember Dead or Alive 6 for the outrage fans had when it was announced the sexy theme would be toned down in favor of a more realistic and serious fighter. Fans of the series still managed to have fun playing the game though. According to our own reviewer Steve Baltimore the “story is batshit crazy in true Dead or Alive fashion, and I loved every minute of it.” This entry in the series boasted better visuals with more detail in the arenas than its previous entry.
…And The Winner Is…
SAMURAI SHODOWN
Blade wielding fighter SAMURAI SHODOWN has enjoyed great success since its original release in 93, so it is no shock that it made its way to our oprainfall Awards this year. Boasting things like a revolutionary new AI system that allows the game to learn from player patterns while bringing the same tense and exhilarating battles seems to have been a great one-two combo that knocked our volunteers out.
