Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Guilty Gear X Plus refines the fast-paced, combo-driven fighting mechanics that defined the original Guilty Gear X. The core system revolves around the Tension Gauge, which you fill by attacking, moving forward, or successfully landing hits. Once charged, it allows access to powerful techniques like Roman Cancels, which serve both as combo extenders and defensive maneuvers. This mechanic gives battles an electrifying flow, letting skilled players chain jaw-dropping combos while maintaining the threat of strategic counters.

One of the standout additions in this “Plus” edition is the inclusion of Kliff Undersn and Justice as playable characters. Kliff’s measured, sword-based style adds a methodical, spacing-oriented approach, while Justice’s projectile-heavy toolkit forces you to constantly adapt your ground game. Their arrival not only expands the roster but also brings fresh tactical layers to the familiar cast, encouraging you to experiment and find new match-ups to master.

The controls remain crisp and responsive, with each button mapped intuitively for attacks, throws, and specials. While newcomers might feel overwhelmed by the steep learning curve and the sheer variety of move lists, the game’s training mode allows thorough practice of each character’s toolkit. Veteran players will appreciate how Guilty Gear X Plus rewards precision and creativity, turning each match into a thrilling mental duel of reads, frame traps, and spacing wars.

Beyond one-on-one battles, the addition of a dedicated Story Mode enriches the single-player experience. It weaves character-driven scenarios between fights, offering context and narrative motivation for why these fighters clash. Although the mode is presented in simple visual-novel segments, it provides a welcome break from arcade ladder climbs and offers fans of the series a deeper dive into Guilty Gear’s distinctive universe.

Graphics

Guilty Gear X Plus shines with hand-drawn 2D sprites that burst with bold colors and kinetic energy. Each character animation is fluid, with dynamic poses that punctuate special moves and supers. When Sol Badguy unleashes his Dragon Install or Potemkin delivers a colossal Hammerfall, the screen practically shakes with impact — a testament to the artistry and effort poured into these frames.

Stages are equally eye-catching, ranging from gritty urban backdrops to fiery industrial complexes. Subtle details—like sparks flying off metal platforms or drifting embers in the air—help ground the action in a living world. Though the game originally debuted in 2001, its vibrant art direction has aged gracefully and still holds up compared to many modern 2D fighters.

Character portraits and story-mode illustrations also deserve praise. While these still images don’t boast full animation, their manga-inspired linework and expressive faces convey emotion effectively. They underscore critical plot beats, whether characters are trading barbs or reflecting on past conflicts, giving the story mode a cohesive visual identity that ties back to the main battles.

Performance-wise, Guilty Gear X Plus runs smoothly even on older hardware. Frame rate dips are virtually nonexistent, ensuring that split-second decisions and frame-perfect maneuvers remain reliable. This technical polish is crucial for a game that demands precise inputs, and it highlights Arc System Works’ commitment to quality in both form and function.

Story

The newly introduced Story Mode in Guilty Gear X Plus offers a structured narrative that knits together the various character arcs. You step into short, illustrated vignettes before and after each fight, witnessing alliances form and rivalries intensify. Although not as elaborate as story modes in later Guilty Gear titles, it sets the foundation for the series’ mythos—touching on themes like rebellion, redemption, and the search for one’s purpose.

Key events include Sol Badguy hunting down remnants of “Gears,” humanity’s bio-engineered weapons, while Ky Kiske upholds order as a knight of the Sacred Order. Adding Kliff and Justice from the original Guilty Gear not only expands the playable roster but also deepens the lore: Kliff’s history as a legendary swordsman and Justice’s tumultuous reign provide surprising emotional stakes. These character-focused glimpses enrich the world and motivate you to see each storyline through to its conclusion.

Dialogues are punchy and often laced with humor, capturing each fighter’s unique personality. Whether you’re listening to May’s bubbly enthusiasm or Testament’s cryptic menace, the writing gives a genuine sense of camaraderie and conflict. Fans of anime and manga will appreciate the theatrical flair, even if the delivery is more static than what later 3D-rendered story modes would offer.

Ultimately, while Guilty Gear X Plus’ story mode may feel minimalist by modern standards, it was groundbreaking at the time—and remains a welcome addition for players who crave context in their fighting games. It transforms what could have been an endless arcade ladder into a purposeful narrative journey that highlights the series’ unforgettable characters.

Overall Experience

Guilty Gear X Plus stands as a landmark 2D fighter, balancing accessibility for newcomers with depth for seasoned competitors. The robust mechanics—anchored by Roman Cancels and the Tension Gauge—create a satisfying risk-and-reward system that keeps each match unpredictable. Whether you’re exploring local versus battles or diving into the Story Mode, there’s a rich well of content to draw from.

The “Plus” enhancements, notably Kliff and Justice plus the narrative segments, demonstrate Arc System Works’ dedication to expanding and refining their product. Even two decades after its original release, Guilty Gear X Plus continues to captivate with its striking visuals, high-octane soundtrack, and finely tuned combat. Its performance remains rock-steady, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a classic fighter that won’t let technical limitations get in the way of the action.

For prospective buyers, this edition represents the best way to experience Guilty Gear X on home consoles. It serves both as a time capsule of early 2000s fighting-game innovation and as the genesis of features that would become staples throughout the franchise. If you appreciate deep combo systems, eclectic characters, and a rock-fueled soundtrack, Guilty Gear X Plus delivers on all fronts—and then some.

In summary, Guilty Gear X Plus is more than just an enhanced port; it’s a celebration of what made the series special from the very beginning. Its blend of technical mastery, artistic flair, and narrative ambition ensures it remains a must-own title for fighting-game enthusiasts and Guilty Gear aficionados alike.

Retro Replay Score

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