Yatagarasu! Attacking Beasts with an Alluring Anime Aesthetic?

Step into the vibrant and stylized world of Yatagarasu: Attack on Cataclysm, a fighting game that embraces both classic mechanics and innovative twists, all wrapped in a visually stunning anime package. Developed by the talented team at Deskworks, this hidden gem delivers a unique experience for fans of the genre.

At its core, Yatagarasu is about strategic combat, where precision timing and calculated attacks are paramount to victory. Players choose from a diverse roster of characters, each with their own distinct fighting styles, special moves, and intricate backstories. The game features a traditional six-button layout – light punch, medium punch, heavy punch, light kick, medium kick, and heavy kick – allowing for a variety of combinations and chaining techniques to unleash devastating combos upon your opponents.

The gameplay revolves around the concept of “Auras,” which are unique energy fields surrounding each character. These Auras influence attack power, movement speed, and defensive capabilities. Understanding how to manipulate and control your Aura is crucial for achieving victory. Yatagarasu encourages a deeper level of engagement than simply button-mashing; it rewards strategic thinking, precise timing, and the mastery of complex combos.

Unveiling the Intriguing Narrative:

While fighting games are often known for their competitive gameplay, Yatagarasu surprises players with a compelling narrative woven through its Arcade Mode. Players embark on a journey across Japan, encountering a diverse cast of characters who are all drawn into a supernatural conflict threatening the very fabric of reality.

The story centers around ancient Japanese mythology and legends, incorporating powerful entities known as “Amatsu Kami,” celestial deities who hold dominion over various aspects of nature. The arrival of these deities signals a cataclysmic event that threatens to plunge the world into chaos. Players take on the role of warriors chosen to confront these threats and restore balance to the world.

Exploring the Roster:

Yatagarasu boasts a roster of 12 unique characters, each with their own distinct fighting style, backstory, and connection to the overarching narrative.

The character designs are captivating, drawing inspiration from both traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern anime sensibilities. Their personalities are well-developed, adding depth to the narrative and providing a sense of connection for players.

Production Excellence: A Feast for the Eyes and Ears:

One of Yatagarasu’s greatest strengths lies in its exceptional visual presentation. The game features gorgeous 2D hand-drawn animation that brings the characters and environments to life with stunning detail. Each character’s moves are fluid and visually impactful, making every combo a spectacle to behold.

The soundtrack is equally impressive, blending traditional Japanese instruments with modern electronic elements to create an atmospheric and immersive soundscape. The music dynamically shifts during battles, intensifying the emotional impact of crucial moments.

Beyond the Arcade:

While Yatagarasu excels in its Arcade Mode, it offers additional modes to extend the gameplay experience:

• Versus Mode: Engage in head-to-head battles against friends or AI opponents, perfect for honing your skills and testing different character matchups.

• Training Mode: Experiment with combos, practice special moves, and refine your timing in a controlled environment before taking on real challengers.

• Online Play (Limited):

  Yatagarasu initially offered limited online functionality through the PS3 version of the game. However, this feature has been largely discontinued due to the game’s age and the discontinuation of the PSN servers for older consoles.

A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring:

Despite its initial release in 2011 on the PlayStation 3 and its limited online availability today, Yatagarasu remains a captivating fighting game experience that deserves recognition. It offers a unique blend of classic mechanics, innovative gameplay elements, and a compelling anime-inspired narrative. Its exceptional visuals, dynamic soundtrack, and diverse roster of characters make it a truly unforgettable experience for any fan of the genre.

For those seeking a fighting game that breaks away from the norm while offering deep strategic combat and a captivating world to explore, Yatagarasu is a hidden gem worth unearthing.