Fast-paced stylish action and simple mechanics makes for the perfect fighting game for casual gamers

User Rating: 7.5 | Dead or Alive 3 (Classics) XBOX
Dead or Alive 2 was the first DOA game I played and the frantic action paired with the gorgeous visuals (and women) impressed me enough to pick up DOA3.

DOA3 like its predecessor boasts slick graphics, fun hyperactive action, immersive levels and of course, the DOA staple, the tons of lovely pixelated babes.

The gameplay doesn't change much from DOA2 - there are a few new characters, new moves, new levels and new outfits and a new boss but that's about it. If you've played DOA2, this game is like an upgrade. And if you're new to the series, let me tell you that it doesn't matter much as the Dead or Alive series is perfect for fighting game beginners. Reason being is that the gameplay is that button-mashing tends to work more often than not.

This could be embraced by casual and/or beginner fighting gamers but the more hardcore bunch would most likely frown at it seeing as how newbies would end up beating seasoned vets from time to time and look good doing it.

But don't get me wrong - the gameplay is not too shallow; the various characters all have their own unique fighting system resulting in different strategies. It comes in all varieties from pure streetbrawling to locking up convoluted grappling holds to even wrestling and drunken boxing.

So whether you're dishing out frantic combos or ogling Kasumi's double Ds, this game is easy to get into and worth playing over and over.