Official Score
Overall - 80%
80%
Lethal League Blaze improves upon the original release in almost every way, offering up challenging gameplay that is both accessible and deep. The single player offerings might be a bit light, but those that bring a friend along will enjoy throwing down.
Players will get ready to play ball once again with the console port of Team Reptile’s competitive sport Lethal League Blaze. Packing new mechanics, new characters, and new tunes, should you feel that funky beat?
Lethal League Blaze Review
Never played Lethal League before? No need to worry – Lethal League Blaze is a great jumping off point. The objective seems simple as first – whack a ball and knock your opponent out before they do the same to you. However, a number of wrinkles add some depth – shots can be angled, balls can be bunted, and everybody has a special ability. The title does a perfect job at easing the barrier of entry, all while providing depth for those looking for it. Watching two pros go at it is an art form, one full of speed and flash.
Those who jumped into the previous entry will be thrilled with the new additions thrown into Lethal League Blaze. A health bar makes things fair, and balls can now be thrown. A parry also adds some depth, and the inclusion of an item target spits out multiballs, health regeneration, and other anomalies. Some purists may decry these additions, but we feel they level the playing field and keep things lively.
The roster found here has been carefully balanced, though each character has their own unique hook. Some may feel Candyman’s wall-penetrating abilities or Jet’s lightning-infused bubbles are cheap, but knowing what to expect and how to counter each ability adds a level of depth to proceedings. In addition, every last one of these newcomers features fresh aesthetics, and fit the style of the game like a glove.
Those going solo will be able to jump into a standard suite of options. Two different “How to Play” sections briefly cover the basics and more advanced maneuvers, and an Arcade Mode with 11 bouts is what players have come to expect. There is also a Training mode that allows players to adjust the ball speed and other factors.
A Story mode has also been included in Lethal League Blaze. Narrated by the Queen, it tells of an underground ragtag group that formed the Lethal League after the game has been criminalized. Players will encounter a number of matches, learning about the Tri Government, the Renegades, the Safety League, the Ignite competition, and other facets. Its still images aren’t the fanciest thing in the world, but the story is solid. Just be warned that it is a bit on the short side.
Those who play better with others can jump into the game’s many versus modes. There’s no shortage of options here – one can jump into Versus, 1v1 fights, play on teams, partake in Lethal Volley, or experience Strikers. An Online Mode with support for Quick, Ranked, and Hosted Matches is also available, but nobody was online as of this review.
To add some replayability, players can unlock characters, stages, skins, modes, and beats. There’s a fair amount to be had, and variety is most certainly the spice of life here.
It should be worth noting Lethal League Blaze’s soundtrack is at the top of its class. Industry legends Hideki Naganuma (Jet Set Radio) and Frank Klepacki (Command & Conquer) both contributed to the OST, and other songs feature stylish beats that help to accentuate the action.
Lethal League Blaze improves upon the original release in almost every way, offering up challenging gameplay that is both accessible and deep. The single player offerings might be a bit light, but those that bring a friend along will enjoy throwing down.
