Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Evil Zone offers a robust fighting system built around full 3D arenas and 360-degree movement, setting it apart from many traditional 2D fighters. Players can dash, sidestep, and utilize the depth of the stage to dodge attacks or execute surprise flank strikes. This freedom of movement introduces strategic layers beyond mere button-mashing, encouraging mindful positioning and timing.

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The variety of modes keeps the gameplay loop fresh and engaging. Story Mode immerses you in episodic battles for each character, while One Player Battle and VS Mode allow quick matches against CPU opponents or friends. Survival Mode tests your endurance through consecutive fights, and Practice Mode helps you refine combos and special moves. This breadth of options ensures you’ll never run out of new challenges to conquer.

Character diversity further enriches the experience. You start with eight unique fighters, each unlocking new abilities and playstyles as you progress. Additional characters can be unlocked through specific achievements or by completing certain story routes, rewarding exploration and dedication. Whether you prefer quick, high-impact brawlers or more technical zoners, Evil Zone accommodates numerous approaches to combat.

Graphics

Evil Zone’s art direction embraces a vibrant anime style, complete with bold outlines and expressive character designs. The cell-shaded textures give each fighter a hand-drawn look, bringing the animated visuals to life on screen. Stages range from colorful cityscapes to eerie ruins, each with dynamic camera angles that shift during key moments in battle.

Animations are smooth and impactful, with well-animated special moves that feel weighty and satisfying. When a character executes a signature attack, the game often zooms in dramatically or switches to a close-up, heightening the cinematic flair. These visual cues make every clash feel like a highlight reel of your most impressive combos.

The game also uses visual storytelling in Story Mode, presenting each battle like an episode from an anime series. Brief animated sequences bookend fights, showcasing character interactions, rivalries, and humor. These narrative cut-ins maintain the anime show motif and reinforce the unique visual identity that fans of the genre will appreciate.

Story

Story Mode in Evil Zone is structured like an anthology TV show, with each character starring in their own “episode.” At the start of each campaign, you’re treated to a voice-over introduction that sets the stage and teases the upcoming conflict. These intros capture the tone of each character’s persona—some playful and comedic, others dark and intense.

Between fights, you’ll see previews of the next episode, complete with cliffhanger text and flashy transitions. This episodic format injects a true anime-like rhythm into the narrative, making you feel invested in seeing each character’s tale unfold. The writing varies widely, from tongue-in-cheek banter to more serious, dramatic arcs, ensuring each playthrough feels distinct.

Despite its fighting-game roots, Evil Zone doesn’t skimp on characterization. You’ll learn about your fighter’s motivations, rivalries, and personal quirks as you progress. The balanced mix of humor and drama caters to fans of classic anime storytelling, helping to elevate the story beyond a simple fight-for-the-thrill setup.

Overall Experience

Evil Zone succeeds in blending deep, 3D combat mechanics with a charismatic anime presentation. The expansive roster and multiple game modes guarantee a long shelf life, whether you’re playing alone or challenging friends in head-to-head battles. Unlockable fighters and hidden features add extra incentive to fully explore each mode.

While the game’s anime-style storytelling may not replace a dedicated RPG or visual novel, it brings a refreshing narrative spin to the fighting genre. The episodic structure keeps you engaged, and the well-executed voice intros and previews add production value that many fighting games lack. Fans of over-the-top character drama and dynamic combat will find plenty to love here.

For prospective buyers, Evil Zone is a solid pick if you crave a fighting game with 3D freedom, varied modes, and an anime flair. It strikes a satisfying balance between accessibility for newcomers and depth for seasoned players. Whether you’re drawn to the colorful graphics, the broad move sets, or the TV-show-style storytelling, Evil Zone delivers an experience that stands out in the crowded world of anime fighters.

Retro Replay Score

6.6/10