BlazBlue: Central Fiction closes out the Sen no Kikai arc with a roster of sixteen fighters, each built around a distinct fighting style, and the result holds up as one of the best fighting games ever made. The game takes what worked in previous entries and pushes it further, adding new systems, refining existing ones, and giving players a fighting game that rewards patience over button mashing.
Trailer, via Aksys Games Official.
The Sixteen Fighters
Sixteen characters means a lot of variety, and each fighter carries a different set of tools. Some favor fast combos, some favor strong attacks, and some favor defense. That spread means players can pick a fighter whose playstyle matches their own habits, whether they want to:
- Rush in with aggressive combos
- Sit back and wait for openings
- Build up a Drive meter carefully
Drive and Risk
Central Fiction introduces a system called “Drive,” which adds a layer of risk and reward to every fight. Players build Drive by landing hits, then spend it on special moves. Manage it well and fights open up. Manage it poorly and opponents can punish you heavily.
Story Mode Density
The Sen no Kikai arc runs through a long series of events, told across multiple storylines that cross paths and diverge. It is dense, packed with dialogue and character development, and it asks players to pay attention to who is talking and what they are saying. The story mode is not for everyone, but for those willing to sit through it, it offers some of the best writing in the genre.
The Look and Sound
The visuals are sharp, with detailed character portraits and fluid animations. The music, composed by Motoi Sakuraba, fits the mood of each stage, moving from tense action tracks to quieter, reflective pieces during story scenes. Together, the presentation gives Central Fiction a distinct identity that separates it from other fighting games.
Verdict Breakdown
| Feature | Strength | Weakness |
|---|---|---|
| Roster size | Sixteen fighters offer wide variety | Some players may find the learning curve steep |
| Drive system | Adds depth to strategy | Can feel overwhelming at first |
| Story mode | Dense, rewarding writing | Lengthy, demanding attention |
| Presentation | Sharp visuals, strong music | May not appeal to casual audiences |
The Difficulty Wall
Central Fiction is not a game for beginners. The systems are layered, and mastering them takes time. For players willing to put in the effort, though, the payoff is significant. Those who stick with it will find a game that rewards precision and thought.
Replay Value Across Modes
The game offers enough content to justify repeated playthroughs. The story mode alone is worth playing through multiple times, and the competitive modes give players plenty of reasons to keep coming back.
Final Word
BlazBlue: Central Fiction is a near-perfect fighting game, marred only slightly by its difficulty. It is a game that respects its players, offering depth without sacrificing accessibility entirely. Anyone who loves fighting games owes it a look.
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