The game known as “BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger” is the latest 2D fighting game to come out from the creative minds of the people of Arc System Works. The company’s most notable franchise is “Guilty Gear” which has managed to rival powerhouse fighting game franchises of Namco, Sega, Capcom, and SNK-Playmore.
Its most recent titles are “Hokuto No Ken” which is based of the popular and violent Japanese anime series called Hakuto No Ken and “Battle Fantasia.” The anime’s more notable English name is “Fist of the North Star.”
Looking at the latest trailer which was show at the Arcade Operators Union Amusement Expo (AOU 2008), the graphics, music and game play gives BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger has the feel and essence of Guilty Gear. While it is not necessarily a bad thing, it questions if BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger will grow on its own without it being deemed a “clone” of Guilty Gear.
Regardless, the game looks exciting enough. The music in the game trailer further adds to the energetic feel that BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger looks to offer to players.
The game uses the new Taito Type X2 arcade system board created by the Japanese company known as Taito. More of the upcoming fighting games with notable reputations have started to utilize this arcade board such as: “KOF Maximum Impact Regulation A 2”, “Samurai Shodown: Edge of Destiny,” “Street Fighter IV,” and “The King of Fighters XII.” All four are set to be released to arcades in 2008 throughout Japan before they are released to arcades across North America.
The trailer shown at AOU 2008 revealed four out of the ten characters in the game: Ragna the Bloodedge, Jin Kisaragi, Noel Vermillion, and Tager.
Those in North America that enjoy fighting games let alone fighting games such as Guilty Gear will have to wait possibly until 2009 or 2010. Currently, the game will only be available for the arcade.
It is not know if or when BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger will be ported to game consoles.