Dead or Alive 6 Last Round: A Mixed Bag for Fighting Game Fans

Dead or Alive has always held a special place in my heart, but I often find myself having to clarify my affection for the series. “Not in that way!” I want to shout, “I just think the Triangle System is super cool!” It can be exhausting, and it’s a shame that Dead or Alive 6 is often overshadowed by these misconceptions when it’s truly a game with a wealth of mechanics that deserve recognition. Fast forward to the Last Round edition, and while it has held onto its charm since its 2019 release, it feels like a bit of a letdown if you already own the original. Some essential features are glaringly absent, making you question whether shelling out for this re-release is worth it.

So, what exactly is Last Round? It’s essentially Dead or Alive 6 packed with five of the previously released DLC characters (hello, Nyotengu, Phase 4, Momiji, Rachel, and Tamaki), a fresh set of costumes for your favorites like Kasumi and Ayane, a new Photo Mode, and some minor visual enhancements. Unfortunately, that’s about it. You’ll find that many hundreds of DLC costumes are still missing from this package, and if you’re hoping to carry over your unlocks for guest characters like Mai Shiranui and Kula Diamond, you’re out of luck. They’ll cost you an extra $11 (approx. Rs 3,060) each, even if you had them in the original. Ouch.

Now, let’s talk about what’s absent. Unlike Dead or Alive 5’s Last Round, this version doesn’t include any new fighters or classic stages, nor does it support cross-platform play or have the much-requested rollback netcode. Fans have been pleading for these features for years, yet they remain unaddressed. Team Ninja has promised new content down the line, but this sparse re-release raises eyebrows. Dead or Alive 6 is seven years old, and if it had included all the existing DLC for free or introduced a game-changing feature, it might have justified the price. As it stands, Last Round feels like a ploy to peddle more costumes, which, while nice, could have simply been new DLC.

The good news? Dead or Alive 6 still shines as a fantastic fighting game. The series has always been straightforward: one button for punches, one for kicks, another for throws, and a separate button for holds. The introduction of a special attack button adds a layer of strategy, allowing for cool Fatal Rush combos and meter moves. At its core, Dead or Alive is like a tactical chess match, relying heavily on its Triangle System. Every move calls for a counter, making the gameplay dynamic: strikes beat holds, holds beat throws, and throws beat strikes. The thrill lies in executing a perfect counter, turning the tide of a match when timed correctly.

One of the game’s best features is its hold system, enabling players to counter almost any strike by hitting the hold button at the right moment. While risky, nailing the timing can lead to a spectacular comeback. And honestly, there’s something so satisfying about landing a solid hit or pulling off a clutch counter. Sure, you might feel the sting when you make a mistake, but that’s part of the learning curve. When you successfully use your Break Gauge to execute a Break Blow or a Break Hold, the Triangle System comes alive. Though some might be wary of adding meters to a 3D fighter, DOA6’s execution has stood the test of time.

Last Round also plays beautifully on PC, with impactful hits and quick gameplay that keeps you engaged. You can unleash some killer combos if you know your stuff, but everything still revolves around strategic decision-making. I particularly enjoy the Danger Zones—they add a quirky element to battles, whether you’re dodging a falling pterodactyl or tumbling down a hill. Positioning and timing are crucial in any fighting game, and Dead or Alive nails it, providing a fluid experience.

For those who may not have kept up with the updates since the original release, Last Round offers the chance to try out five DLC characters that I hadn’t experienced before. I found myself really vibing with Momiji, Rachel, and Phase 4. Momiji trades raw power for speed, while Rachel brings the brute force with powerful short combos. Phase 4 is the versatile fighter; her gameplay feels intuitive, making her a joy to play.

While I wished for more new content in Last Round, it’s comforting to find that the core experience remains intact. The tutorial and training options are top-notch, providing excellent resources for newcomers and veterans alike. If you’re diving into Dead or Alive for the first time, the game makes it easy to learn the ropes, and even if you’re getting back into the swing of things, the training tools are invaluable. DOA Quest is a fun challenge mode that sets you tasks during fights, and it’s incredibly user-friendly, taking you straight to relevant tutorials if you need a refresher.

The single-player modes are enjoyable as well. I appreciate the quirky narrative that, while chaotic, is oddly charming. The plot involves tournaments, evil corporations, and ninjas—classic fighting game fare—but it’s a fun ride nonetheless. It’s refreshing to see female characters taking center stage, making choices and having agency, rather than just being side characters. The story may be a bit wacky, but it keeps you entertained.

However, console players might face challenges due to lingering input lag issues, with delays reaching up to eight frames during gameplay, which is disappointing. In contrast, the PC version has minimal input lag, making it the preferred platform for serious players. It’s frustrating that these issues weren’t addressed in the new release, making it harder to recommend for console gamers.

And then there’s the perennial topic of character design. Yes, the characters maintain their signature looks, with some very revealing outfits available for customization. While some may roll their eyes at this, it’s important to remember that fighting games have always had their share of eye candy. Personally, I’m here for the combat, and even if some costumes seem over the top, they don’t define the entire experience for me. Plus, there’s something enjoyable about unlocking diverse costumes through actual gameplay rather than shelling out extra cash.

All things considered, Dead or Alive 6 Last Round is familiar but flawed. While it retains many redeeming qualities, the absence of cross-play and rollback netcode is disheartening. However, the range of single-player modes and the engaging combat system still make it worthwhile for fans of the genre. There’s plenty to enjoy here, and even if it has its shortcomings, there’s still a lot of fun to be had with Dead or Alive 6.

Note: PKR figures are approximate, based on a rate of Rs 278.00 per USD. Exchange rates fluctuate — please check the latest dollar rate for exact pricing.