Fairy Tail: Beach Volleyball Havoc is not your typical sports game as its players are the powerful mages from the popular anime franchise, Fairy Tail. A product of the collaboration between tiny cactus studio, MASUDATARO and veryOK, this magic-based summer volleyball game features action-packed matches with your favorite Fairy Tail characters and their unique arsenal of magic-based abilities. 

Fairy Tail: Beach Volleyball Havoc puts your favorite characters from the series in a beach-themed game, all in their uniquely made designs with their summer outfits. With its 32-character roster, it’s chock-full of characters offer various tactical ways to play.

A chaotic volleyball action with a tactical side 

Fairy Tail: Beach Volleyball Havoc represents the Fairy Tail characters in their 2D, 64-bit art style that applies a flair of the summer vibes. Choose your mage as you battle rivals in PvP or in single player, each player is given the chance to select two characters to attack and defend with — leading to distinct combinations and matchups that heightens its tactical gameplay. 

With its unique abilities and distinct mechanics, the game has a lot to offer in terms of gameplay. It starts with slow rallies that ramp up into full chaotic, magic-filled volleyball relays that will have players gripping their controllers. Adding to the chaos is the game’s ability to host up to four players that makes matches a 2v2. However, due to the crazy magic, the visuals can be overwhelming. 

While the overall game can be fun and competitive, it lacks certain game modes that can elevate the game further. For instance, it lacks an online mode which is extremely detrimental to its gameplay and replayability value, restricting players to only playing matches with computer opponents without another person to play with. Additionally, this squanders the extremely tight and unique mechanics of the game.

A unique volleyball title so close to greatness 

Fairy Tail: Beach Volleyball Havoc offers a refreshing twist on traditional volleyball games by incorporating beloved characters and their magical abilities. The vibrant visuals and chaotic gameplay create an engaging experience, especially in local multiplayer mode. However, the absence of online play limits its longevity, and the overwhelming visuals can detract from the enjoyment. Despite its shortcomings, fans will likely find plenty to love in this summer-themed title.