Then, on the other hand, you have the problem that online is where most of the action is. The offline modes aren't very extensive. In fact, they almost feel wholly like preparation for your online trials. There are some new tricks in this game, and some differences in the fighting choices, but delving into specific combat differences only matters to those truly invested in the franchise's previous iterations and consequently not something I'll delve into here.
I will say that there are a whole lot of characters who do work differently, fighting does have a great deal of depth, and character creation is back for another go-round. And all that, is to the good. Fights are fast-paced, brutal, and full of very pretty (and deadly) moves.
What I have always liked best about the franchise is its beauty. Characters, foregrounds, and backgrounds, are rendered in truly fine fashion. More than once upon getting to a new stage I was struck first because I stopped to smell the roses. It was my mistake, but one which others may make as well. Once again, the game has proven that just because you're a brutal fighter, it doesn't mean you can't be awfully pretty, too.
Devotees of the SoulCalibur series will all have something different to say about where this one stands in the franchise, but if you're just a button-masher (like me) and looking to bash something beautiful, SoulCalibur V is a pretty good choice… if you like to go online, and if you don't care about playing a good story mode, and… well, you get the picture. In the end, for every positive the game has, there's a negative as well. It isn't a bad title by any stretch of the imagination, but for many it will fail to capture the magic of earlier iterations.
SoulCalibur V is rated T (Teen) by the ESRB for Mild Language, Suggestive Themes, Violence. This game can also be found on: Xbox 360.
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