‘Persona 4: The Ultimax Ultra Suplex Hold’ Makes Fighting Game Names Even More Ridiculous
Persona 4 Arena was one of those games that we never knew we wanted, but were happy it exists. After reviewing it last year, I learned that this odd pairing between the RPG developer Atlus and the fighting game aficionados at Arc System Works, (responsible for the Guilty Gear and BlazBlue franchises,) resulted in one of the most enjoyable 2D fighters in years, so much so that I consider it my favorite console game of 2012. Its fast paced action, unique fighting mechanics involving both the characters and their unique Persona’s and deep story that served as a sequel to both the third and fourth RPG titles, and there was little to complain about once our arcade sticks were in hand.
So its no surprise that P4:A would get a follow up. As a matter of fact, I was expecting them to go the popular route and nickel and dime us with expensive DLC characters before coming out with some kind of director’s cut. Imagine my surprise when Atlus officially announced Persona 4: The Ultimax Ultra Suplex Hold. Yes, that’s the real name. Yes it’s absurd. Yes, the game looks awesome!
Joining the existing roster of characters spanning the casts of Persona 3 and 4 are fan favorites from 3. Yukari arrives sporting some Pink Ranger-esque outfit and comes equipped with her trademark bow and uses her Persona’s wind abilities to redirect her projectiles at her enemies. Junpei has dedicated his time to baseball since giving up fighting shadows, which is reflected by his strength growing for every “run” scored when he hits his opponents with his bat. Joining them is newcomer Sho Minazuki. Nothing is known about this fighter, but it’s safe to say he’ll play a decent role as the story unfolds.
Aside from the new characters, every existing fighter will come with rebalanced skills and new attacks, in addition to new Shadow Forms. Each character aside from Elizabeth and Shadow Labrys, (you know, since she’s already a shadow,) has a shadow version, which will give up certain abilities like Bursts and One More Cancels for a quick charging SP meter that can become unlimited for a short amount of time. How players will approach each of these scenarios adds an extra layer of depth to an already deep fighting game, and to say this news is exciting enough. Seeing as the backgrounds, themes and stages in the trailer look much darker, even implying that shadows are roaming in the real world, gives it a Persona 3 vibe. Does this mean the Dark Hour is returning?
We’ll have to wait until the end of this year to find out. P4:U is scheduled to arrive in Japanese arcades this Winter with a console release surely around the corner. Check out the trailer and enjoy the awesomeness of the absurdity. Is this enough to hold us over until Persona 5 is finally released? Let us know in the comments!
Source: Operationrainfall.com
