Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Shin Gōketsuji Ichizoku Tōkon: Matrimelee stays true to its one-on-one fighting roots while injecting a fresh dose of chaos into every match. Basic attacks are familiar to veteran Power Instinct players, but the introduction of dedicated “knockout” and “dodge” commands gives each battle a sharper edge. Executing a well-timed dodge can turn the tide against a relentless onslaught, and landing a knockout move offers both showmanship and strategic advantage.

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Character selection is a highlight, with the entire cast from Gouketsuji Ichizoku 2 returning alongside a handful of quirky newcomers. Each fighter retains signature special moves, but Matrimelee adds an extra layer of unpredictability by allowing you to summon the Kuroko stage-helpers at the cost of a portion of your super meter. Calling on these tiny assistants opens up new combo routes and defensive tricks, making every match feel dynamic and unique.

The pacing here is notably brisk. Combos flow smoothly, and the controls respond with precision, whether you’re performing a basic chain or launching into a high-damage super. The ladder of opponents ramps up nicely, challenging you to adapt tactics as you progress—from testing your blocking against novice rivals to threading punishing counterattacks on seasoned bosses.

Online and local multiplayer modes are equally robust. The arcade ladder offers single-player endurance trials, while versus mode lets you settle grudge matches against friends. Although the game doesn’t reinvent the wheel, its blend of accessible mechanics and off-the-wall gimmicks ensures each session feels rewarding and never stale.

Graphics

Matrimelee steps forward with vibrant, hand-drawn 2D sprites that capture the series’ trademark humor and personality. Each character animation is packed with flair— from custom taunts to exaggerated super move sequences— highlighting the quirky charm that defines the Power Instinct franchise. The fluid frame-by-frame art style holds up well, even on modern displays.

The arenas themselves are richly detailed, ranging from traditional Japanese dojo backdrops to gaudy stage sets peppered with clan insignias and bizarre props. Background elements occasionally react to the action—explosions in the distance or cheering Kuroko—adding a sense of life and spectacle to every fight. Despite being a Dreamcast-era release, the color palette remains bold and eye-catching.

Visual effects for special moves strike a satisfying balance between flash and readability. You’ll know exactly when a super is incoming thanks to dramatic lighting streaks and character-specific color flares. Even on packed screen segments, the action never becomes so cluttered that you lose track of your fighter or miss a crucial follow-up.

While the jump from its predecessor is incremental, Matrimelee’s presentation feels polished and harmonious. Sprites, backgrounds, and UI elements blend together cohesively, reinforcing the game’s whimsical identity without ever feeling sloppy or unfinished.

Story

The narrative premise may seem familiar—yet another tournament to determine the head of the Gouketsuji clan—but Matrimelee spices things up with an unexpected twist. A mysterious foreign character has infiltrated the clan’s leadership, threatening to dismantle centuries of tradition. Each family now battles not only for supremacy but to preserve the very essence of their heritage.

Story mode unfolds through bite-sized interlude screens between fights, each showcasing hand-drawn portraits and tongue-in-cheek dialogue. There’s no lengthy cinematic, but the offbeat humor and colorful cast personalities make every victory feel narratively meaningful. Fans of the series will appreciate how each returning character’s motives tie back to past entries, while newcomers can jump right in and follow the action-driven plot.

Despite its lighthearted veneer, there’s a palpable sense of urgency as you face ever-stronger opponents. The looming threat of clan oblivion adds stakes to every match, even if the game never takes itself too seriously. This balance of campy comedy and earnest determination gives Matrimelee a quirky but effective story structure.

Character endings vary widely, ranging from heartfelt reunions to outright comedic punchlines. These brief epilogues reward players for completing each fighter’s path and encourage multiple playthroughs, deepening your understanding of the clan’s internal politics and the zany world they inhabit.

Overall Experience

Matrimelee is a love letter to fans of the Power Instinct series and a curious detour for anyone seeking a less conventional fighting game. Its fast-paced mechanics, eclectic roster, and lighthearted story combine into an experience that’s both accessible and rich in replay value. Whether you’re grinding through arcade mode or duking it out with friends, each session is guaranteed to deliver unexpected moments of fun.

There are minor drawbacks—some may find the story interludes overly brief, and veteran competitors might crave deeper combo systems. However, the inclusion of dodge, knockout, and Kuroko summons adds just enough strategic depth to keep serious players engaged, while newcomers can still button-mash their way to victory with a grin.

The audiovisual package remains a standout, and the game’s balance between nostalgia and innovation makes it worthy of attention on any retro or modern platform. If you appreciate colorful characters, outrageous special moves, and a tournament steeped in clan politics with a comedic spin, Matrimelee delivers in spades.

In the end, Shin Gōketsuji Ichizoku Tōkon: Matrimelee stands as a memorable mid-series entry that refines its formula without losing its wacky soul. It may not redefine the genre, but its distinct personality and tightly tuned gameplay ensure it remains a gem for those ready to join the Gouketsuji fray once more.

Retro Replay Score

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