This is a Dead or Alive 3 Review for the Xbox by Strubes.

The Dead or Alive series has been redefining the fighting game industry since the original came out back in 1996 at the arcades.  The series offered new combat abilities such as throws and counters.  This has been one of the most innovative fighting series to date, and Dead or Alive 3 is no exception.

Introducing five new characters, the line-up is more solid than ever.  Hitomi is a young newcomer that specializes in Karate.  Brad Wong is a drunk that excels in the art of Zui Ba Xian Quan.  Hayate is a ninja who has mastered Ninjutsu.  Also, two assassins have been added with the addition of Christie and Bayman.

Although Dead or Alive 2 had some very impressive graphics, D.O.A 3 managed to once again out-do its predecessor.  Everything looks so realistic! The stages where you battle are so beautifully crafted.   From the swaying grass to the seagulls flying high overhead, this is the most visually stunning fighting game I’ve ever laid eyes on.  Take the snow stage for example:  The snow falls at a constant rate, you leave tracks where ever you step and snow even shoots up when you jump or are launched into the air!  In many stages, you can knock your opponent off of cliffs, through windows, and even over balconies.  This means that most, if not every level, is multi-tiered, which opens up a lot of options during a fight. Every area of the game graphic-wise, is the best for any fighting game up to date, period. 

Next we look into controls and how fluid the combat is.  Unlike the last game, which focused on good graphics and sex-appeal, D.O.A 3 focuses largely on amazing graphics and dynamic fighting.  Every move in a combo moves so smoothly, you’ll feel like you’re in total control of which direction your combo is headed in. You’d be right to assume this though, as every character as over 70 different combos to utilize.  Also, when you’re in the middle of a punishing combo, using a counter could easily change the flow of the battle. There are ways to get around all flaws of other fighting games when it comes to combat.  If an opponent is blocking, you can use a devastating throw to keep them on edge.  Also, if you knock an opponent down, you can attack them still.  Lastly, if your opponent is in mid-air, you can continue or start a new combo!  This combat system is so easy to learn. You basically just pick it up and go with it. It’s THAT simple!

For my final thoughts, let me just reiterate.  Tecmo’s use of a family-friendly fighting game, which has no blood or weapons, earns my choice of “Best fighting game” for Xbox.  If you must own only one fighting game for the Xbox, definitely go out and pick this one up right now!