Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Battle Arena Toshinden Ultimate Revenge Attack revitalizes the series’ core fighting mechanics by blending the original Toshinden’s free-roaming arena movement with Toshinden 2’s deeper combo system. Characters can sidestep and circle opponents in 3D space, allowing for cinematic feints and ring‐out strategies. At the same time, inputting longer chains of directional and button commands unleashes flashy, multi‐hit combos that reward precise timing.

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The roster of 15 fighters—including newcomers RonRon, Ripper, and Tracy—offers a diverse array of weapons and playstyles. RonRon’s rapid nunchaku strikes excel at close quarters but leave recovery windows after each volley, while Ripper’s heavy blade delivers devastating single blows at the cost of mobility. Tracy’s swift rapier work highlights counterattacks and spacing, making her a lethal choice in the hands of a patient player.

Beyond the standard arcade ladder, Ultimate Revenge Attack features branching paths and secret bosses that unlock only when certain conditions are met. Learning each character’s move list and exploit­ing arena hazards feels rewarding, and the game’s adaptive AI keeps matches challenging. A training mode rounds out the package, offering frame data displays and practice dummies to help newcomers master launchers, juggles, and unblockable tricks.

Graphics

On the Sega Saturn hardware, Toshinden Ultimate Revenge Attack pushes 3D visuals farther than its predecessor. Character models are well‐defined, with crisp weapon edges and detailed costumes that reflect light realistically. Motion captures ensure each sword slash and spin is fluid, while distinctive idle animations give each fighter personality during tense standoffs.

Stage design remains a highlight, with vibrant backdrops ranging from misty Japanese gardens to neon‐lit city rooftops. Textures are surprisingly clean for Saturn standards, though occasional pixelation appears on distant scenery. Environmental hazards such as collapsing ice bridges or swinging chandeliers add stakes to every encounter without overwhelming the framerate.

Special effects—spark bursts on sword clashes, slow‐motion camera zooms during critical strikes, and dynamic lighting for super moves—elevate the presentation. While load times between rounds can be slightly long, the payoff is a consistent 30 FPS experience that keeps the action smooth and responsive.

Story

Departing from the continuity of the original Toshinden and Remix, Ultimate Revenge Attack spins a standalone thriller centered on a wave of assassinations targeting the world’s top warriors. A shadowy organization known only as “Revenge” orchestrates each hit, leaving the remaining fighters to question friend and foe alike. This fresh narrative injects intrigue into the arcade ladder.

Each character’s individual ending offers unique cutscenes and dialogue, revealing hidden motives and the complex web behind the conspiracy. Though voice clips are sparse—limited to victory taunts and defeat cries—the English localization keeps tone consistent, with suitably dramatic lines underscoring key moments. The fully orchestrated soundtrack intensifies boss face‐offs and climactic battles, making story progression feel earned.

While Ultimate Revenge Attack doesn’t delve deeply into cinematic storytelling compared to modern standards, it strikes a solid balance for a mid-’90s fighting game. Unlocking secret characters and bosses provides optional narrative rewards, encouraging players to explore every branch of the tower and piece together the organization’s ultimate goal.

Overall Experience

Battle Arena Toshinden Ultimate Revenge Attack stands out as a robust one-on-one fighter on the Saturn, offering both accessible arcade thrills and a surprising layer of depth for enthusiasts. Its seamless fusion of dual‐plane movement and combo‐driven combat creates matches that feel tense and varied, whether you’re duking it out locally with a friend or climbing the CPU‐controlled ranks.

Multiplayer mode shines with split‐screen arenas and dynamic stage interactions, delivering back‐and‐forth duels that reward adaptability. Single‐player veterans will appreciate the challenge of secret boss conditions and the ability to master multiple characters through extensive training sessions. Replay value soars once you’ve unlocked all fifteen fighters and discovered every narrative branch.

While it may not boast the polished gloss of later fighting‐game giants, Ultimate Revenge Attack captures the mid‐’90s arcade spirit with memorable character designs, solid controls, and enough mechanical depth to last. For Saturn owners craving a true 3D sword‐based brawler, this installment is a must‐try that balances nostalgia with fresh innovations.

Retro Replay Score

5.9/10