Dead or Alive 6 is a fighting game that’s both a step forward and a step back for the series. At its core, the game's combat is arguably the best it has ever been. It retains the signature "Triangle System" of strikes, throws, and holds, but introduces a new "Break Gauge" that adds a layer of depth and accessibility. The Fatal Rush auto-combo makes it easy for new players to jump in and feel a part of the action, while advanced players will find a satisfying and fluid fighting engine with plenty of room for mind games and skillful play. The game also shines visually. Characters show real-time damage with dirt, sweat, and bruises appearing as a fight progresses, and the overall graphics are a significant improvement. The training and tutorial modes are top-notch, with the "DOA Quest" serving as an engaging way to teach players the game's mechanics. However, the game stumbles outside of its core gameplay. The story mode is a disorganized mess, and many of the stages feel less dynamic and memorable than those in previous titles. Most notably, the game was launched with a surprising lack of basic online features like lobbies, which was a huge disappointment for the fighting game community. The monetization and DLC strategy has also been heavily criticized, with a grind-heavy system for unlocking costumes and an overabundance of expensive downloadable content. Furthermore, the decision to tone down the series' signature fan service alienated a portion of its core audience. In conclusion, Dead or Alive 6 is a mechanically solid and highly enjoyable fighting game at its heart. But it’s a game with a significant "if." If you can look past its barebones online functionality, weak story, and questionable DLC practices, you'll find a fantastic fighter that is easy to pick up and challenging to master.

★★★☆☆

Dead or Alive 6 is a fighting game that’s both a step forward and a step back for the series. At its core, the game's combat is arguably the best it has ever been. It retains the signature "Triangle System" of strikes, throws, and holds, but introduces a new "Break Gauge" that adds a layer of depth and accessibility. The Fatal Rush auto-combo makes it easy for new players to jump in and feel a part of the action, while advanced players will find a satisfying and fluid fighting engine with plenty of room for mind games and skillful play. The game also shines visually. Characters show real-time damage with dirt, sweat, and bruises appearing as a fight progresses, and the overall graphics are a significant improvement. The training and tutorial modes are top-notch, with the "DOA Quest" serving as an engaging way to teach players the game's mechanics. However, the game stumbles outside of its core gameplay. The story mode is a disorganized mess, and many of the stages feel less dynamic and memorable than those in previous titles. Most notably, the game was launched with a surprising lack of basic online features like lobbies, which was a huge disappointment for the fighting game community. The monetization and DLC strategy has also been heavily criticized, with a grind-heavy system for unlocking costumes and an overabundance of expensive downloadable content. Furthermore, the decision to tone down the series' signature fan service alienated a portion of its core audience. In conclusion, Dead or Alive 6 is a mechanically solid and highly enjoyable fighting game at its heart. But it’s a game with a significant "if." If you can look past its barebones online functionality, weak story, and questionable DLC practices, you'll find a fantastic fighter that is easy to pick up and challenging to master. ★★★☆☆