Fantasy Strike

Fantasy Strike is a tightly designed 2D fighter with approachable mechanics and an entirely free-to-play roster.

Fantasy Strike isn’t going to blow anyone away aesthetically and its arcade mode is a little barebones. However, in terms of gameplay, it absolutely achieves what it sets out to, offering fun and accessible fighting action to newcomers whilst at the same time possessing enough technical depth in its roster of characters to keep more seasoned fighters interested.

A simple yet interesting fighting game.

Sirlin Games' Fantasy Strike is looking to make pros out of all of us with a simple pick up and play style that hides considerable tactical depth.

While some folks will still prefer to tread AAA territory when it comes to their fighting games, Sirlin and his team have done a pretty good job with their debut effort. Fantasy Strike has a decent offering of characters, a gameplay system that offers value for those that get into it, adaptable controls for newcomers and pros alike, fun local multiplayer options, a decent smattering of single player content, and a nostalgic presentation to back it all up. It's good stuff, even if can't quite live up to Fantasylevel. That's okay, sometimes you need something good to settle down and have fun with.

I think what I appreciate most about Fantasy Strike is that the developers set out for a specific task - make a fun, accessible fighting game - and did just that. It looks and sounds nice enough, and there is more depth than initially meets the eye, which helps as well. The primary quibble is the overall lack of content, but if you are just looking for a quick fighting game fix, Fantasy Strike should scratch that itch rather nicely.

There’s no denying that Fantasy Strike is an enjoyable game, with its simple controls and accessible nature making it easy for just about anyone to pick up and play. Multiplayer is a blast too, especially when you match up against players who’re of a similar skill level to you. It’s just lacking the depth to really appeal to players for the long-term. You’ll see everything each character really has to offer in one fight alone, with the repetitive nature of their moves creeping through more and more after an hour or so of play. It just keeps things a little TOO simple at times which leaves Fantasy Strike feeling a little underwhelming when compared to more intricate fighting games. Still, if you’re after an accessible fighter that’s genuinely fun, Fantasy Strike is definitely worth checking out. Just don’t expect to find the fighting mechanics as deep or addictive as they are in similar titles in the genre.

Fantasy Strike is an excellent fighting game with rewarding gameplay. I can only hope the amount of players increases.

Fantasy Strike succeeds in being a great game for beginners to the fighting game genre, but accomplishes little else.

Overall, Fantasy Strike is not what I originally thought it would be. With the vibrant world and brightly colored characters, you will have a good time fighting against computer enemies or real people. For the price of $29.99 USD, there is plenty for you to do. It is a full game, just like Mortal Kombat or Street Fighter, but for half the price. If you want a change in pace from those other guys, give this one a try.