Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Advanced V.G. 2 delivers a robust fighting system built around a cast of twelve diverse characters, each with their own move sets, strengths, and weaknesses. The core mechanics revolve around solid button inputs for punches, kicks, and special attacks, allowing both newcomers and veterans to feel comfortable chaining combos and experimenting with strategies. The responsive controls ensure that every button press registers cleanly, making execution of advanced techniques—like cancels and super moves—a satisfying experience.

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The game offers multiple modes to keep players engaged: a traditional Arcade Mode for quick pick-up matches, a Story Mode that delves into each character’s motivations, a 2-Player Versus Mode for local head-to-head battles, and a Time Attack Mode for those chasing speed-run glory. Practice Mode is particularly welcoming, granting access to free training and move lists so you can refine your skills at your own pace. Each mode tracks play statistics, encouraging you to improve your win ratios, combo counts, and stage completion times.

Character balance remains a highlight in Advanced V.G. 2. With nine returning fighters familiar from the previous installment and three new combatants including the determined newcomer Tamao Mitsurugi, matchups feel fair and competitive. The inclusion of restaurant-themed special attacks and over-the-top super finishers adds personality to the combat without compromising depth. Whether you’re experimenting with counter tactics or mastering projectile zoning, there’s enough nuance here to keep you coming back round after round.

Graphics

Visually, Advanced V.G. 2 builds upon its predecessor’s vibrant anime-inspired sprites with sharper outlines, smoother animations, and richer color palettes. Each heroine is hand-drawn with meticulous attention to detail—from the flow of Tamao’s ribbon to the movement of Yuka Takeuchi’s iconic outfit. Special moves trigger flashy particle effects and dynamic camera zooms that showcase the power behind each signature attack, making every knockout feel like a spectacle.

The backgrounds in each stage capture the spirit of the tournament’s sponsorship premise: you’ll fight in bustling restaurant interiors, neon-lit urban plazas, and promotional event arenas. Parallax scrolling and subtle environmental animations (such as steam rising from a ramen cart or dancing lights in a bar) enhance immersion without ever distracting from the action. Character portraits and story cutscene illustrations maintain a consistent art direction, giving the narrative segments a polished, professional sheen.

Performance remains rock-solid, even when the screen fills with particle effects, multiple hit sparks, and rapid character movement. Frame rate dips are virtually nonexistent, ensuring that timing-sensitive combos and frame-strict defensive maneuvers register perfectly. For players on the go, the portable version retains crisp visuals and runs smoothly, proving that the Jahana Group’s tournament looks just as good on smaller screens.

Story

The narrative of Advanced V.G. 2 centers on the annual Variable Geo tournament, an all-girl fighting competition sponsored by the enigmatic Jahana Group. Fighters double as restaurant waitresses to promote the event, lending a quirky slice-of-life charm to what would otherwise be a purely combat-focused title. This year’s tournament brings back fan favorites alongside fresh faces, setting the stage for intense rivalries and personal growth.

A focal point of the story is Tamao Mitsurugi, a spirited young combatant driven by admiration for last year’s champion, Yuka Takeuchi. Through Story Mode, players follow Tamao’s journey from rookie underdog to potential title contender, encountering side plots that explore friendships, betrayals, and hidden agendas within the tournament. Dialogue sequences are well-paced, intercut with animated portrait panels that add emotional weight to key moments.

Each character’s storyline offers its own flavor: some tales focus on redemption and discipline, others on unearthing corporate intrigue behind the Jahana Group’s true motives. While the overarching plot isn’t Shakespearean drama, it’s engaging enough to motivate multiple playthroughs. Story Mode also weaves in battle conditions and mini-objectives, giving narrative chapters a gameplay twist that feels fresh compared to standard arcade ladders.

Overall Experience

Advanced V.G. 2 strikes a satisfying balance between accessibility and depth. Casual players can jump into Arcade Mode and enjoy streamlined fights, while competitive enthusiasts will find enough technical complexity to master advanced tactics. The variety of modes and the character roster’s diversity ensure high replay value, whether you’re chasing leaderboard times or exploring every story branch.

The presentation—polished sprites, dynamic stages, and a catchy soundtrack—creates an inviting atmosphere for newcomers, while returning fans will appreciate the refined animations and new mechanics. The game’s restaurant-tournament premise adds a lighthearted twist that sets it apart from other fighting titles, giving each fighter a dual role as entertainer and warrior.

Ultimately, Advanced V.G. 2 shines as a niche gem for fans of 2D fighting games with an all-female cast. Its engaging story mode, stable performance, and well-balanced roster make it a compelling purchase. Whether you’re drawn by the anime aesthetics, the promise of fierce 1-on-1 battles, or the quirky tournament lore, this title delivers a robust and memorable experience that keeps you coming back for more.

Retro Replay Score

null/10