One Piece Burning Blood

Game Review: One Piece: Burning Blood

Score: 8.5/10

Being a die-hard One Piece fan, I have so much of really playing any games that could at least take me closer to the world of that anime-manga series. One Piece: Burning Blood found its place in my Steam library, and after much, much testing diving into battles on the Grand Line, I have lots to say now about this.

Graphics and Visuals: 8/10

At first hand, Burning Blood does a pretty good job at breathing the bright world of One Piece into the visuals. The character models are all really detailed, are recognizable and smooth, and cartoon-style stay true to designs. The most significant settings selected are places like Marineford and the Straw Hat Pirates sub Thousand Sunny and its brightness, colors, and capture simply the whimsical charm of One Piece.

And, at times, the graphics certainly make up for it, but in these exciting combats, usually coupled with lower frame rates or backgrounds looking a bit rough around the edges. However, they are definitely convincing and, at least, take great pleasure in plunging fans into the One Piece universe.
 

Gameplay: 9/10

Where Burning Blood makes great strides is in its actual playing. As far as fighting games go, it remains pretty much focused on fast-paced battles that are not only fast-paced but also easy for all. The combat system is easy enough, featuring basic controls for seamless combos and special moves, making for high-in-the-sky theatrics while still keeping things accessible for a newcomer to the genre.

Now add the "Haki" system for an extra level of cunning: Surprise your rival with just the right strike or defense the moment it counts. Character-specific moves and signature techniques make each fighter feel unique, and with a cast full of fan favorites like Luffy, Zoro, and Ace, that's more than enough for any player to find one to love.

Story and Characters: 8/10

Burning Blood's story mode follows the events of the Dressrosa arc to some extent as it loosely retells glorious moments within the arc, centering on battles instead of the depth of lore. Not that it tells a completely different story from the anime or manga, as the overhead characters will not get to enjoy it as such, but it does add some enjoyment for the fans through familiar situations and character interactions.

This character closet is heaven for any One Piece fan, combining much of the favorite Straw Hat crew, Marine admirals, and some other great characters together. It's just so exciting to experience the fights celebrating the rivalries and friendships fans have cherished through the years.
 

Multiplayer: 8/10

The multiplayer function is the biggest reason to play Burning Blood. Try competing against your friends or matchmaking online to add a whole new dimension of enjoyment and competition to the game. Every match, whether casual or ranked, offered something for everyone, making it fun to play.

But I should note a few connection issues while matchmaking, sometimes making the experience less enjoyable. Regardless, gratuitous fighting against other fans will always get the adrenaline pumping.

Final Thoughts:

One Piece: Burning Blood is a good tribute to the gigantic One Piece universe, where exhilarating fights are staged between adored characters by fans. Thus, while not breaking the mold for new ideas in storytelling or even creating more technical polish, it has done fabulously in making up for it with a fun, action-packed fighting experience for fans of the series.

Any One Piece fanatic wishing to test their strength against friends or simply relive some of the most prominent battles in a well-lit environment would benefit from this game. It has joined my One Piece collection, and I can't wait to see what more is in store for the franchise. 

Overall Score: 8.5/10