Granblue Fantasy: Versus is an action game from Cygames Inc, Arc System Works, and XSEED Games. This 2D fighting game brings various characters from the hit RPG title, Granblue Fantasy Relink, including their unique Skybound Arts moves. Choose from a dozen characters from the base game, plus another dozen from downloadable content (DLC) packs.

In terms of art style, Granblue Fantasy: Versus feels similar to GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE- with its 2D anime-style art but with a greater variety of moves and play styles. The biggest issue with the game is its small player base, making it difficult to make matches.

A more straightforward Granblue property

Whereas Granblue Fantasy Relink is a co-op fantasy RPG with an immersive storyline, Granblue Fantasy: Versus is a straightforward 2D fighting game where you beat the other player up. More importantly, it has an impressive art style with that hand-drawn appeal common among anime works. This makes both the character designs and the backgrounds both familiar, relatable, and enjoyable to fans of the franchise, regardless of the media.

Gameplay-wise, the fantasy RPG translates nicely into a 2D fighting title. There’s a good variety of effects and play styles that make each character stand out. The smooth and precise gameplay, plus the familiar execution of the beloved anime art style, is partly because of Arc System Works, the game developers behind the Guilty Gear franchise. As mentioned, each of these characters has their Skybound Arts, special moves with impressive visual effects.

It pins the art style and has a healthy variety of playing options available, all while staying true to the Granblue Fantasy canon. The only concern with this game is that, for some reason, not all of the RPG fans convert to this game. Its small player base is felt when you try to play online, leaving you to chance, and mostly longer matchmaking times.

An underrated gem

With graphics reminiscent of Guilty Gear games and a franchise storyline on par with the Fate series, Granblue Fantasy: Versus is a fighting game fans shouldn’t be sleeping on. Although the base roster is quite restricted, you can always get more characters via in-app purchases, each being as affordable as the original. Although the online multiplayer is quite challenging, it’s still fun and enjoyable.