In 1999, the 3D weapons-based fighting opus Soul Calibur was one of the first arcade games with a home version on the Sega Dreamcast that surpassed it in terms of graphics and content.  With each sequel, Bandai Namco has always added more features to keep players coming back to the arena.

Soul Calibur IV, the newest installment, proves that the series still has a few tricks up its sleeve.  Set in the 16th century, the game continues to follow fighters in their quests to find and wield the legendary Soul Edge and Soul Calibur swords.

New features have been implemented to balance game play.  The Soul Gauge is a defense gauge that diminishes when you repeatedly block offensive moves, and if you can deplete your opponent’s Soul Gauge twice, you can perform Critical Finish moves that will stop him or her instantly.

The game’s cast also comprises an array of new characters including a few Star Wars mainstays you might recognize. 

The Xbox 360 version of the game includes Jedi master Yoda as its exclusive character while the PlayStation 3 version pits players against the Sith lord Darth Vader.  Soul Calibur purists might scream foul, but how many chances do you get to go sword-to-light saber with two of the most popular characters in pop culture?

Both versions also feature The Apprentice, a new Jedi from the upcoming LucasArts game, The Force Unleashed.  And if you’re not a Star Wars fan, the create-a-fighter mode has returned so you can create a digital copy of yourself as a martial arts master, if you so desire.

Most notably, players can square off against other players online this time, returning to the tournament feel that made this series famous in the first place.  Soul Calibur IV is available for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 at $59.99 MSRP.

WEB | http://www.soulcalibur.com

Hi Me,

I think you totally overlooked the final paragraph at the bottom where I mentioned the online mode. 

Next time, please read the whole article before flaming me!  Thanks.

I don’t know what article you’re reading “Me” but the last paragraph mentions the online play.  Forget your ADHD meds.  Doh!

I was thinking of getting this but i’m not a huge fighting fan. I sort of got bored with previous fighting games such as Tekken and MK.

The one thing that is influencing me is the online mode which you have forgotten to mention.