BlazBlue Entropy Effect is a spin-off of the BlazBlue series by Arc System Works, developed by 91Act. It is a side-scrolling roguelite action game that features the iconic cast of BlazBlue in a cyberpunk setting. The game was released in Early Access on Steam on August 15, 2023, and has since been updated with two new playable characters. The full version of the game was launched on January 31, 2024, with more content and features. In this article, we will review the game and give you some reasons why you should play it.

What is the BlazBlue Entropy Effect?

BlazBlue Entropy Effect is a game that combines the refined and optimized moveset experience from fighting games with the procedural generation and permadeath elements of roguelite games. The game has four large themed stages plus one randomly generated Metroidvania map, each with different enemies and bosses. The game also has an advanced mode where bosses have evolved forms and mechanics.

The game has seven unique characters to choose from, each with their skills and abilities. The characters are:

• Ragna the Bloodedge, the main protagonist of the BlazBlue series, wields a sword infused with the Azure Grimoire.
• Jin Kisaragi, Ragna’s brother and rival, who uses a katana that can manipulate ice.
• Noel Vermillion, a former soldier, and Ragna’s friend fights with dual pistols that can transform into various weapons.
• Rachel Alucard, a vampire and the head of the Alucard family, who controls wind and lightning with her umbrella and familiars.
• Hazama, a mysterious agent of the Novus Orbis Librarium and the vessel of the evil Terumi, who attacks with a chain and a knife.
• Makoto Nanaya, a beastkin, and Noel’s childhood friend uses her fists and tail to deliver powerful blows.
• Hibiki Kohaku, Jin’s loyal and efficient assistant, wields a pair of blades that can create illusions.

The game also has eight elemental systems with a total of 200+ Tactics for customization. Tactics are special effects that can be applied to the character’s skills, such as increasing damage, adding status effects, or changing the skill’s properties. Tactics can be obtained from chests, shops, or enemies, and can be combined to create more powerful effects.

The game also has a mature and uniquely presented story mode, with multiple endings depending on the character and the choices made. The story mode features fully voiced dialogues and animated cutscenes, as well as branching paths and hidden secrets.

Why Should You Play BlazBlue Entropy Effect?

BlazBlue Entropy Effect is a game that offers a lot of fun and challenge for fans of action and roguelite games. Here are some of the reasons why you should play it:

• High replay value: Each run is different and unpredictable, as the stages, enemies, bosses, and tactics are randomly generated. You can also customize your difficulty and challenge yourself with different modifiers and events. The game also has a rating system that rewards you for your performance and unlocks more content and features.
• Depth and variety: Each character has their playstyle and personality, and you can mix and match their skills and tactics to create your build. You can also borrow skills from other characters and use them in your run. The game also has a lot of secrets and easter eggs to discover, such as hidden rooms, special events, and references to the BlazBlue lore.
• Style and substance: The game boasts charismatic character designs, dramatic animations, smooth controls, realistic combat feedback, and a rich and immersive story. The game also has a stunning soundtrack that matches the mood and atmosphere of each stage. The game also has a lot of humor and charm, as the characters interact with each other and comment on the situation.

Gameplay Tips and Tricks

If you are new to BlazBlue Entropy Effect, or you want to improve your skills, here are some gameplay tips and tricks that might help you:

• Dashing is your best friend: You can dash on the ground or in the air, and you have invincibility frames while doing so. You can use dashing to avoid attacks, reposition yourself, or get past enemies. You can also dash cancel your skills to chain them faster or change direction.
• Utilize air attacks when possible: Air attacks are generally faster and safer than ground attacks, as they can hit multiple enemies and avoid some traps. You can also use air attacks to extend your combos or cancel your landing lag. Some characters, such as Rachel and Hazama, have more options and mobility in the air than on the ground.
• Beware anything that glows red: Red is the universal color of danger in this game. Anything that glows red, such as enemy attacks, traps, or hazards, can deal damage to you or inflict status effects. You should avoid or destroy anything that glows red, or use your dash to get through it safely.
• Go with AoE upgrades when possible: AoE stands for the area of effect, and it means that your skills can hit multiple enemies or cover a larger area. AoE upgrades are very useful in this game, as they can help you clear enemies faster, deal more damage, or apply status effects. Some examples of AoE upgrades are Fireball, Shockwave, or Explosion.
• Prioritize Mind upgrades: Mind is the currency that you use to buy items, skills, or tactics in the game. Mind upgrades can increase the amount of Mind that you earn or find, or reduce the cost of items or skills. Mind upgrades are very valuable, as they can help you afford more upgrades or items, or save some Mind for later.

Conclusion

BlazBlue Entropy Effect is a game that delivers artistic and magnificent combat action, incredible satisfaction, and infinite possibilities. It is a game that will appeal to both fans of the BlazBlue series and newcomers alike. It is a game that is easy to pick up and play, but hard to master and put down. It is a game that is constantly updated and improved, with new content and features added regularly. It is a game that is currently available on Steam for $19.99, with a 10% discount until February 7, 2024. If you are looking for a game that is stylish and challenging, fun and rewarding, and deep and varied, then BlazBlue Entropy Effect is the game for you.

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