Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Dead or Alive: Ultimate offers an expansive fighting experience by coupling the original SEGA Saturn release of Dead or Alive with a fully rebuilt version of Dead or Alive 2. The first title retains its classic 3D planes and counter-driven engine, giving veteran players the nostalgia of ring-outs and quick-reaction mechanics. Meanwhile, the redesigned Dead or Alive 2 refines these core systems by adding streamlined combo strings, smoother transitions, and an expanded move list for each fighter.

The inclusion of Live! support elevates the gameplay significantly, allowing you to test your skills against opponents around the world. Online lobbies, ranked matches, and friend duels are seamlessly integrated, and the netcode holds up well even during fast-paced exchanges. Whether you’re perfecting a lightning-paced counter or unleashing a multi-hit juggler, the online infrastructure keeps matches fluid and responsive.

Beyond one-on-one bouts, Ultimate boasts a variety of modes to deepen engagement. Training modes break down each character’s special moves and combos, while arcade and versus modes provide classic branching paths and unlockable content. The combination of two distinct game versions, plus extra costumes and selectable rule sets, ensures that both newcomers and series veterans will find ample replay value.

Graphics

Graphically, Dead or Alive: Ultimate showcases the evolution of Team Ninja’s art direction from the mid-’90s Saturn era to a more polished early 2000s aesthetic. The original Dead or Alive retains its blocky character models and basic textures, but it’s presented at a stable frame rate on modern hardware—evoking a retro charm without feeling sluggish.

Dead or Alive 2’s overhaul is immediately apparent in its more detailed character models, richer color palettes, and dynamic lighting effects. Stage backdrops come alive with animated elements—swaying foliage, bustling marketplaces, and stormy skies—all of which enhance the atmosphere without distracting from the core fighting action. Animations are fluid, and each punch, kick, or throw carries weight thanks to well-timed impact effects and camera shakes.

Costume variety further adds visual flair. From casual outfits to exotic fare, each fighter’s wardrobe is meticulously designed and unlockable through gameplay milestones. While a few textures show their age on closer inspection, the overall presentation strikes a solid balance between retro authenticity and modern polish, making Ultimate a visually compelling package.

Story

Dead or Alive’s narrative is minimal, serving primarily as an introductory backdrop for each fighter’s personal motivations. In the original Saturn release, characters converge at a secluded island tournament to seek revenge, redemption, or fame. Cutscenes are brief but establish rivalries, alliances, and a sense of purpose for each bout.

Dead or Alive 2 deepens the drama with expanded story sequences, enhanced voice acting, and more character-specific endings. You learn about fighters like Ryu Hayabusa’s quest for vengeance, Kasumi’s struggle with loyalties, and Tina’s ambition to prove herself. Although the overarching plot remains straightforward, the additional cinematics and dialogue give matches a stronger emotional undercurrent.

For many players, the story mode functions as a roadmap to unlocking new stages, costumes, and characters. The arcade paths branch based on performance, providing multiple endings and incentive to replay as different combatants. While narrative depth isn’t the series’ main draw, Ultimate’s dual offerings provide just enough context to keep single-player sessions engaging.

Overall Experience

Dead or Alive: Ultimate stands out as a definitive package for fans of the franchise and fighting game enthusiasts alike. By combining two distinct entries—one preserved in its original form and the other fully reborn—the title delivers both a historical look back and a revamped modern experience. Online play adds longevity, ensuring you can continually refine your technique against human opponents.

The wealth of modes, unlockables, and costume variations enhances long-term engagement, while the core combat system remains expertly balanced and deeply satisfying. Whether you prefer the sharp counters of the Saturn classic or the more fluid combo chains of Dead or Alive 2, you’ll find ample value in this collection. The game’s slight graphical discrepancies are overshadowed by its polished mechanics and robust feature set.

For potential buyers, Dead or Alive: Ultimate is an essential pick if you appreciate fast-paced 3D fighters with a competitive edge. It’s equally accessible for newcomers—thanks to comprehensive tutorials—and rewarding for seasoned players chasing frame-perfect counters. With its compelling blend of retro and modern design, Ultimate is a compelling addition to any fighting game library.

Retro Replay Score

8.1/10