Blade Strangers

What it is

Blade Strangers is a 2D fighting game from Studio Saizensen, with one-on-one battles between characters drawn from different game worlds. Its story brings these fighters together after Lina, a malevolent force, begins consuming data from a network watched over by sentient computers called motes. The motes summon heroes, and the tournament winner may become the Blade Stranger capable of stopping Lina. The game uses four-button controls intended to be approachable, while combos, counters, and special moves provide more depth for players who want to study timing and hit boxes. The roster includes characters from Studio Saizensen and Nicalis games, as well as other entrants. Each fighter has eight color options and a home stage. Online competition is available, alongside local shared- or split-screen play. Blade Strangers is a Windows release with single-player, multiplayer, PvP, achievements, and full controller support.

What players like, and what they don't

Who it suits

It suits fighting-game players who want one-on-one competition, whether online or in shared-screen play. The controls also aim to welcome newcomers, while combos and counters offer more to learn.

Blade Strangers pairs accessible controls with deeper combo and counter play. It offers online and local PvP on Windows.