Soul Calibur, it's not. But for hand to hand combat Tekken had better innovate or else DOA will just start slapping them
The game is a massive graphical improvement over the psx original -obviously- but the main improvements are in the inclusion of breakable environments, multi-tiered levels and the double tag attacks (they are freakin' sweet!) As usual tecmo's presentation is both flawless and gorgeous. The character's come with a lot of unlockable costumes, and sub-plot features give it massive replay value. If you're a vet of the series you'll be right at home with a few control tweaks. Newbies might be a little disoriented at first, but once you get a hang of the counter system, you'll be on even keel with the best veteran fighters out there.
And that counter system is the true genius of this title; -balance-. The counter / guard / strike dilemna is the fighting game equivalent of rock-paper-scissors. This "guess and hope you're right" approach keeps all opponents balanced regardless of skill or their juggle combos. Of course the joy of the "bouncy" option is here as well (you know what i'm sayin'), but my favorite part is the new level layout; multi-tiered and breakable? huzzah!
Bottom line: DOA2 is an instant classic. It's unfortunate they went exclusive to Bill's Box. Come back to us Tecmo! Please!