Tatsunoko Vs Capcom Review

Capcom returns to their ever popular versus series, with Tatsunoko vs Capcom. There has been a lot of hype around this game, and many questions have been asked. Will this game surpass Marvel vs Capcom 2? Will the Wii system be able to display superb graphics? Who in the world is Tatsunoko? The answer to all these questions is yes, and as far as who is Tatsunoko here is a little history lesson taken from Wiki.

Tatsunoko History - The studio debuted in 1965 with the TV series Space Ace. Since then, many legendary figures in the anime industry have worked with Tatsunoko, including Mizuho Nishikubo, Hiroshi Sasagawa, Koichi Mashimo, Katsuhisa Yamada, Hideaki Anno (Tatsunoko provided animation work on the Neon Genesis Evangelion TV series), and Kazuo Yamazaki. Sasagawa, in particular, is notable for bringing his fondness for "gag" or comedy animation to the forefront in Tatsunoko series such as the Time Bokan (1975) franchise. The translated and edited versions of the studio's more successful animated series, such as Hiroshi Sasagawa's Speed Racer (1967), Gatchaman (1972) and Samurai Pizza Cats (1990), are credited with bringing international attention to Japanese animation. Tatsunoko Production has a strong roster of action and science-fiction anime titles, Tatsunoko has nevertheless become well-known also for several widely-acclaimed fairy tale and fantasy-based series for younger children, such as Minashigo Hutch (1970), The Adventures of Pinocchio (1972), Temple the Balloonist (1977), The Littl' Bits (1980), and the Bible-based Superbook (1981).



The company provided some financial assistance on Macross (1982, adapted as part of 1985's Robotech) at some time during the run of the show, in exchange for various rights. They later licensed Macross to Harmony Gold, who then produced Robotech. This has given rise to a long standing legal feud between Harmony Gold/Tatsunoko and Studio Nue and Big West. While falling in favor of Nue and Big West in Japan, Harmony Gold still maintains that they have all rights to the Macross franchise in the United States. In June 2005, Japanese toy company Takara Co., Ltd. purchased a majority stake in the studio. Tatsunoko then became a complete subsidiary of Takara Tomy, the new company created following the subsequent merger of Takara and TOMY Co., Ltd., in 2006. Tatsunoko's studios are located in the Kokubunji district of Tokyo.

Several of today's top Japanese animation studios have their roots in Tatsunoko. Studio Pierrot was founded in 1979 by former Tatsunoko employees. Production I.G was established in 1987 as I.G. Tatsunoko, which was a branch for the production of Zillion led by Mitsuhisa Ishikawa. Studio XEBEC also traces its history to Tatsunoko, as it is an offshoot of Production I.G; and Koichi Mashimo who previously worked at Tatsunoko founded Bee Train. Tatsunoko's latest major project is the Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All Stars fighting game, a collaboration between Tatsunoko and video game company Capcom which features characters from both companies. Recently, it has been announced that Tatsunoko and Marvel Comics will collaborate on a joint Television project and other ventures.

Ok history class is over, now for what you been waiting for the review.

Story -
There is a story in here somewhere in the Arcade section. But there isn't much characterization for you to care. Besides it's a fighting game and who comes to a Capcom vs game for a deep story? This isn't a RPG.

Characters List
Ken the Eagle
Jun the Swan
Casshern
Tekkaman
Hurricane Polymar
Yatterman-1
Karas
Doronjo
Hakushon Daimaou
Ippatsuman
Gold Lightan
Ryu
Chun-Li
Morrigan
Alex
Batsu
Mega Man
Soki
Roll
Saki
Viewtiful Joe
PTX-40A
Frank West
Tekkaman Blade
Yami (Boss)

Gameplay - This game really takes fighting in the versus series to the next level. Not only is it more easier to perform moves, but it is also a fair fight (unlike Marvel Vs Capcom 2). For everyone wondering if we going to have a repeat of Magneto or Sentinel cheat, rest assure it won't happen. Capcom made sure everyone can survive each other. The game consists of eight modes, Arcade, VS, Training, Survival, Time Attack, Shop, Gallery, Capcom Ultimate Shooters and of course Wifi Battle. Trust me there is a lot content that will keep you busy. Especially if you want to unlock everything in the store. The game can be played in four ways. You can play with the Wii Remote, Wii Remote with the Nunchuk, Classic Controller or Gamecube. I prefer to use the Wii Remote by itself. Too me it's more comfortable and easier to use. You hold the Wii Remote horizontal and use the Dpad to move the character. Pressing 1 is to attack and pressin 2 is for special moves. Combining 1 and 2 unleashes a Hyper combo. The - button is to taunt. The A button is for mega crash which is a great new way to stop an attack, it will become your best friend. The game is two on two unlike Marvel's three on three. This makes the game more strategic and less frustrating. There is also great new features such as Baroque Combo which raises your strength for a bigger super attack. Trust me you don't want to be hit with this. What we love about the gameplay is that it's cathered to both the casual and hardcore fighting fan. There are three main attacks light, meduium and strong. Yes it's only three but trust me, it delivers. Everyone can play this game and trust me, pulling off a 50 hit air combo never felt so good. This is better than Marvel Vs Capcom 2? Hell yes in almost every way. We just wish it had a bigger roster. Also beware of Yami he is annoying. I can't forget online gameplay. Make sure you are on your A game, these guys and girls are good. What I like about this one is the Rival Sysetem. Rival system is when you registered an opponent as your rival. In other words if you are getting your ass kick 5 times by somebody, you might want to put them on your rival list, that way you can train to kick their ass.

Gameplay Video


Graphics - Honestly this the best looking fighting game on the Wii and from Capcom right now. This looks better than Street Fight IV. The characters are well drawn, no lag issues. The backgrounds are just pure art and it's something you must see. You will drop your draw at Ryu's blast and Karas special. Amazing graphics and I think all fighter that follow this format should take notes.


Sound - The sound is not the games strongest point, but since it's a fighting game I really don't care. You have the original upbeat music and Japanese voice overs. The sounds of the blast, punches and kicks are what you expect from Capcom. Nothing to revolutionary.

Replayability/Value - You will be playing this game for along time. You are going to desire to unlock everything in the gallery, character clothes and be the best online. Not to mention the mini games and the Capcome Shooter. This game is addictive and you will not regret buying this.

Final Grade A+ - - I never thought Capcom would surpass Marvel Vs Capcom 2 but they sure did. This is a must have for all fighting fans that own a Wii. Great graphics, wonderful gameplay, great rosters. All around fun! Buy Tatsunoko Vs Capcom when it's released Tuesday, January 26th 2010.