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CRITIK

SoulCalibur VI

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of SoulCalibur VI
Item: SoulCalibur VI
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2018

GenresAdventure, Action, Side View Perspective, Fighting, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableOct 18, 2018

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC

DeveloperBandai Namco Games, Project Soul

Overview

SOULCALIBUR VI represents the latest entry in the premier weapons-based, head-to-head fighting series and continues the epic struggle of warriors searching for the legendary Soul Swords. Taking place in the 16th century, revisit the events of the original SOULCALIBUR to uncover hidden truths.

Elsewhere

7.3

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

46%

Mixed (50-79)

54%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of SoulCalibur VI are quite varied. Some critics, such as CGMagazine and COGconnected, praise the game for its well-written plot and compelling narratives. They appreciate the depth and progression of the story modes, with CGMagazine specifically mentioning the pace of progression in Soul Chronicle. The Games Machine also commends the game for offering a long RPG-style campaign mode called 'Bilancia dell'anima', which allows players to create and customize their own avatar and follow their adventures in the game world. These positive reviews highlight the engaging storytelling and narrative-focused approach of the game. However, there are critics who express negative opinions about the story modes in SoulCalibur VI. App Trigger criticizes the second story mode for being too long and grindy, while Game Informer finds Libra of Soul to be text-heavy and not compelling overall. Impulsegamer even goes as far as finding the story attempts in the game annoying and unnecessary, preferring to focus on the fighting mechanics. These critics point out drawbacks such as excessive text, lack of compelling narrative, and a low-budget feel to the story mode. Overall, the consensus among the critics is mixed. While some critics, like Game Rant and VideoGamer, find certain character stories engaging and worth playing through, others, such as TheSixthAxis and GameSpace, describe the story modes as boring and dull. The game's retelling of the original Soulcalibur events is appreciated by IGN and Game Rant, but it is also criticized by Game Rant for feeling more like a retelling than a reboot. The inclusion of two story modes, Soul Chronicle and Libra of Soul, is generally seen as a positive aspect, allowing players to explore different narratives and learn about the backstory of each character. However, the reliance on text-heavy storytelling and the lack of fully voiced cutscenes are mentioned as drawbacks by critics like Cheat Code Central and New York Daily News. Overall, while some critics find the story modes in SoulCalibur VI to be compelling and narrative-focused, others feel that they fall short in terms of engagement and execution.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics are divided on SoulCalibur VI's story modes. Some praise the engaging narratives and customization options, while others criticize the long, text-heavy grind. Overall, opinions range from engaging character stories to dull retellings, with mixed feelings on the game's storytelling approach and execution.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

90%

Mixed (50-79)

10%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The majority of critics praised the gameplay of SoulCalibur VI, considering it to be very good. They commended the game for its accessible yet deep mechanics, which catered to both casual and high-level play. The combat system was described as straightforward, with vertical, horizontal, and special attacks, providing a satisfying and balanced weapons-based combat experience. The addition of new mechanics like Reversal Edge and Soul Charge was also well-received, with critics highlighting the depth and fun these mechanics brought to matches (App Trigger, Cheat Code Central, Digital Chumps). While the overall sentiment towards the gameplay was positive, there were a few criticisms mentioned by some critics. One criticism was that the combat may feel lacking or unchanged for players who have been playing the most recent entry (Cubed3). Another criticism was directed towards the Reversal Edge mechanic, with one critic mentioning that it promotes chance over skill (TheSixthAxis). Additionally, some animations were criticized for being too long, potentially affecting the flow of combat (The Games Machine). Overall, the consensus among critics is that the gameplay of SoulCalibur VI is highly enjoyable and well-designed. The combat system is praised for its balance, depth, and accessibility, allowing players to have a great flow and feel distinct and powerful with each character (Destructoid, Push Square, Video Chums). The new mechanics, such as Reversal Edge and Soul Charge, were seen as successful additions that added depth and strategy to the fights (CGMagazine, Game Rant). The gameplay is described as smooth, satisfying, and easy to learn, making it inviting to newcomers without sacrificing technical complexity (GamesBeat, Press Start Australia). Overall, the positive opinions of the majority of critics highlight the strong gameplay experience offered by SoulCalibur VI.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics laud SoulCalibur VI's gameplay for its accessibility and depth, praising the balanced combat mechanics like Reversal Edge and Soul Charge. While some critics found combat lacking for returning players and criticized lengthy animations, overall consensus is highly positive. The game offers a smooth, satisfying experience with distinct character playstyles, making it enjoyable for both casual and high-level players.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

74%

Mixed (50-79)

22%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics praised the Graphics and Visual Design of SoulCalibur VI, with many describing it as visually stunning, fantastic, and the best looking game in the series. The character models and stages were particularly highlighted for their overall look and detail. Critics such as Destructoid and Game Rant described the game as absolutely gorgeous inside and out, while Gamers Heroes stated that SoulCalibur VI is the best looking game in the series. The character design was also highly praised, with Impulsegamer commending the exceptional character design and striking visuals. The art design and animations were also lauded, with Digital Chumps noting the impressively deep character creation tool and the wide range of options available. However, there were some criticisms regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of SoulCalibur VI. Cubed3 expressed disappointment in the visuals, describing them as low quality, which was particularly disappointing for a long-awaited sequel. Video Chums mentioned that while the characters looked great, the stage designs were disappointing and forgettable. Additionally, Cheat Code Central noted that the game uses static images and text to tell its story, which some may find less cinematic, although it fits well with the overall design. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Graphics and Visual Design of SoulCalibur VI are very good. The majority of critics praised the game's visuals, character models, and stages, with many highlighting the exceptional character design and striking visuals. The art design and animations were also commended, as well as the impressively deep character creation tool. While there were some criticisms regarding the visuals, such as the low quality visuals mentioned by Cubed3, these issues were not considered deal-breakers. Overall, SoulCalibur VI was widely regarded as visually stunning and the best looking game in the series, making it a visually appealing experience for players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics widely praised SoulCalibur VI for its stunning graphics, fantastic character designs, and detailed stages, calling it the best looking game in the series. While some critics expressed disappointment in certain visual aspects like stage designs and storytelling methods, the overall consensus is that the game's visuals are top-notch, making it a visually appealing experience for players.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

83%

Mixed (50-79)

17%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The majority of the critics praised the sound design and music of SoulCalibur VI, with several positive aspects highlighted. Cheat Code Central commends the voice acting in the game, stating that it is generally good, although some moments may come across as cheesy. This suggests that the voice actors effectively bring the characters to life, contributing to the overall immersive experience. Digital Chumps and Game Debate both mention the regal soundtrack, with Digital Chumps specifically noting that it adds to the comfortable and familiar atmosphere of the game. The inclusion of full voiceovers in both English and Japanese further enhances the audio experience, as mentioned by Digital Chumps. Additionally, Game Debate appreciates the brilliant music and sound effects, particularly praising the Japanese instrumental tone for adding to the immersion. These positive comments indicate that the sound design and music in SoulCalibur VI are well-executed and contribute positively to the overall gameplay experience. While the majority of the critics had positive opinions about the sound design and music, there were no specific negative comments mentioned. This suggests that the negative aspects of the sound design and music in SoulCalibur VI were not significant enough to be highlighted by the reviewers. However, it is important to note that the absence of negative comments does not necessarily mean that there were no flaws in this aspect of the game. It could simply indicate that the positive aspects overshadowed any potential negatives, or that the critics did not find any major issues worth mentioning. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the sound design and music in SoulCalibur VI are very good. The positive comments from multiple reviewers, such as Destructoid praising the appropriately regal and incredible soundtrack, New York Daily News highlighting the potent score that enhances the immersive experience of the story mode, and COGconnected commending the well-done dialogue and overall sound design, collectively support this conclusion. The inclusion of full voiceovers in multiple languages, the effective voice acting, and the brilliant music and sound effects contribute to the overall positive reception of the sound design and music in SoulCalibur VI.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics rave about SoulCalibur VI's sound design and music, praising the voice acting, regal soundtrack, and immersive experience. No major negatives mentioned, with reviewers highlighting the well-executed audio that enhances gameplay. Overall consensus is very positive, with critics applauding the game's brilliant music and sound effects.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

91%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in SoulCalibur VI has received generally positive reviews from critics. Multiple critics, such as Cheat Code Central, Critical Hit, IGN, and PC Gamer, have praised the game for its fully voiced dialogue in the story mode. They mention that the voice acting adds a nice dose of context and immersion to the game's narrative. IGN specifically highlights the fully voice-acted cutscenes as a positive aspect. Additionally, Game Debate appreciates the inclusion of Japanese voice acting, which they believe enhances the overall experience. These positive opinions indicate that the voice acting in SoulCalibur VI effectively contributes to the storytelling and helps players connect with the characters. However, there are some mixed opinions regarding the voice acting in SoulCalibur VI. CGMagazine mentions that while the game has fully voiced cutscenes in Soul Chronicle mode, the dialogue in Libra of Souls mode is entirely unvoiced. This inconsistency in voice acting may be seen as a negative aspect by some players. VideoGamer also notes that the voice acting in the story modes can be wooden at times, suggesting that the quality may vary throughout the game. These criticisms highlight potential areas for improvement in the voice acting department. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in SoulCalibur VI is a positive aspect of the game. The majority of critics appreciate the fully voiced dialogue and cutscenes, which they believe enhance the storytelling and immersion. The inclusion of Japanese voice acting and the availability of English subtitles are also seen as positive features. While there are some criticisms regarding inconsistencies and occasional wooden performances, the overall sentiment leans towards a favorable view of the voice acting in SoulCalibur VI.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics generally praise SoulCalibur VI's voice acting for enhancing storytelling with fully voiced dialogue and cutscenes, adding context and immersion. However, there are mixed opinions on unvoiced sections and occasional wooden performances, suggesting room for improvement. Overall, the majority view the voice acting positively, with Japanese voice acting and English subtitles as appreciated features.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

47%

Mixed (50-79)

53%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of the technical performance on the PS4, the critics had mixed opinions. App Trigger mentioned that the netplay was solid with occasional hiccups and lag, while Critical Hit noted noticeable input lag. However, Game Informer found the online matches to be stable with decent connection, obscuring poor connections. PlayStation Universe also praised the stable servers during combat with no lag. On the downside, CGMagazine highlighted constant loading screens in offline modes, which could hinder the experience, especially in the character creation system and Libra of Souls mode. Cubed3 criticized the long loading times and lack of improvement in combat. Despite these negatives, Gamers Heroes and New York Daily News found the online mode to be relatively painless and stable, respectively. Moving on to the PC platform, the critics generally had positive experiences. Game Debate praised the smooth performance, solid 60fps, and good optimization. PC Gamer mentioned that the game maintained a steady 60 frames at 1080p on mid-range hardware and was well-tuned for PC gaming. The Games Machine also commended the game for running smoothly on mid-range hardware and maintaining a stable 60 frames per second. GameSpace had no issues with lag or delays in inputs during online matches. However, Game Debate did mention some stuttering during cutscenes, which could potentially be fixed with a patch. On the Xbox One, the reviews were mostly positive. IGN mentioned long load times on the base Xbox One, but playing on an Xbox One X or a PlayStation 4 significantly reduced the load times. COGconnected noted minor slowdowns in the game, but it did not significantly impact the overall enjoyment. Game Rant found the local and online multiplayer options to function perfectly fine. ZTGD also mentioned a few loading hitches and issues on the Xbox One version, but it did not hinder the enjoyment. Overall, the critics had a mixed opinion on the technical performance of SoulCalibur VI. While some platforms had their share of issues, such as long loading times on the PS4 and occasional stuttering on PC, there were also positive aspects. Stable online matches and minimal lag were highlighted on both the PS4 and PC platforms. The Xbox One version had some minor issues, but it did not significantly impact the overall experience. It is worth noting that the overall consensus among the critics was that the technical performance was generally satisfactory, with some room for improvement in certain areas.

TL;DR

technical performance

SoulCalibur VI's technical performance received mixed reviews across platforms. Critics praised stable online matches on PS4 and PC but noted long loading times on PS4 and occasional stuttering on PC. Xbox One saw minor issues, but overall, the game functioned well. While there is room for improvement, critics generally found the technical performance satisfactory.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

48%

Mixed (50-79)

52%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of SoulCalibur VI are generally positive. Many critics highlight the various game modes available, including arcade ladder, story modes, and online play, as contributing to the game's replayability. App Trigger praises the game for offering plenty of content for replayability, with the character creator being particularly praised for its depth and possibilities. Cheat Code Central also commends the game for offering a wealth of gameplay modes, including a standard story mode, a custom character story mode with RPG elements, and a character creation mode. Digital Chumps mentions the character creator and the RPG-based Libra of Soul mode as features that add replay value to the game. The inclusion of multiple story modes, character creation, and online play is also mentioned positively by other critics such as Destructoid, Gamers Heroes, and Game Informer. However, there are some criticisms regarding the replay value of SoulCalibur VI. CGMagazine mentions that apart from the story modes, the game doesn't offer much outside of standard fighting game modes. Cubed3 also notes a lack of options outside of the story modes, and Slant Magazine describes the modes as skimpy without providing a detailed analysis of the replayability. We Got This Covered mentions that apart from the two story modes and the standard arcade mode, there isn't much else to do in the game, suggesting a potential lack of variety in gameplay options. Game Rant also highlights that the single-player stories vary in quality, which may impact the replay value for those who don't find them compelling. Overall, the consensus among critics is that SoulCalibur VI offers a decent amount of replay value. The inclusion of various game modes, such as arcade, versus, training, and story modes, along with the character creation feature, is praised for providing players with plenty of content to enjoy. The multiplayer options, including online play, are also mentioned positively. However, there are some criticisms regarding the lack of certain staple modes and potential limitations in content outside of the story modes. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment is that SoulCalibur VI offers enough replay value to keep players engaged and entertained.

TL;DR

replay value

SoulCalibur VI earns praise for its replay value, with critics highlighting diverse game modes like arcade ladder, story modes, and online play. The character creator and RPG elements add depth and possibilities, contributing to its replayability. While some critics note limitations in gameplay options outside of story modes, the consensus is that the game offers enough content and multiplayer features to keep players engaged and entertained.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

89%

Mixed (50-79)

11%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Overall, the opinions of the critics regarding the Overall Verdict of SoulCalibur VI are generally positive. The game is praised for its gameplay, character creator, and single-player content. App Trigger commends the game for being a fresh start for the series, while Cheat Code Central highlights its easy-to-learn gameplay and various modes that cater to players of all skill levels. Critical Hit describes SoulCalibur VI as a refined and accessible fighting game with a deep and rewarding fighting system. Digital Chumps and Game Informer both appreciate the game's accessibility and compelling single-player mode. We Got This Covered considers it an incredible fighting game with an unforgettable single-player experience and a deep, yet accessible, fighting system. These positive aspects are supported by other reviewers such as Gamers Heroes, GameSpace, and PC Gamer, who also praise the game's visuals, replay value, and tactical variety. However, there are some criticisms mentioned by the reviewers. App Trigger mentions the length of one story mode and the lack of interactive tutorials as drawbacks. Cubed3 notes that SoulCalibur VI falls short in terms of visuals and technical performance. Video Chums criticizes the character customization, stage designs, and the roster missing some expected characters. TheSixthAxis mentions the dull story modes and the Reversal Edge mechanic as missed opportunities. COGconnected mentions the game could use more characters and has some minor technical issues. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment towards the game remains largely positive. In conclusion, SoulCalibur VI is generally well-received by critics. The game is praised for its gameplay, single-player content, and character creator. It is considered a fresh start for the series and the best Soul Calibur game to date by CGMagazine. The accessibility of the gameplay and the various modes cater to players of all skill levels, as mentioned by Cheat Code Central. The game's deep and rewarding fighting system, as well as its replay value, are highlighted by Critical Hit. The positive aspects of the game are supported by multiple reviewers, including Game Informer, We Got This Covered, and PC Gamer. However, there are some criticisms regarding aspects such as the length of one story mode, lack of interactive tutorials, visuals, technical performance, character customization, and missing characters. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among the critics is that SoulCalibur VI is an enjoyable and worthwhile addition to the fighting game genre.

TL;DR

Critics praise SoulCalibur VI for its engaging gameplay, character creator, and single-player content, calling it a fresh and accessible entry in the series. However, criticisms include issues with visuals, technical performance, and character customization. Despite some flaws, the game is largely well-received for its deep fighting system and replay value, making it a standout in the fighting game genre.

CRITIK

Reviews

185 reviews found

100

New York Daily News

PlayStation 4

Nov 20, 2018