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Fighting mayhem doesn’t get old even after two years as Marvel vs. Capcom 2 hits the PS2. The game debuted on the 2D/3D friendly Dreamcast and bolstered critical acclaim for being a crazy 3 on 3 fight fest. Those worried about the translation to PS2 need not – it looks and plays perfect. Note: For more details on the fight system check out the DC review here. Marvel vs. Capcom 2 has a whopping 56 characters to play from both universes (half need to be unlocked). Matching up Spider-Man and Jill Valentine from Resident Evil may seem weird, but all the characters play with an equal swiftness to keep matches fast and furious. The vs. series is all about quick super combos and over-the-top specials and Marvel vs. Capcom 2 has plenty of it. Team combos, air combos, crossover attacks, whatever, there’s enough to do in the game to keep you fighting for hours.
There are four modes to play – Arcade, Versus, Training, and Score Attack. Score Attack mode lets you try to beat your own high score with no option settings. The Secret Factor section lets players buy new characters, costume colors, and artwork. Points will be gained each time you beat matches and the secret factor store makes it easy to see what new unlockables can be purchased. The control is top notch on the Dual Shock 2. Players will need to assign two attack buttons on triggers but it’s not a big deal. The character control is tight any no one should have any problem linking combos, team combos, pulling off supers or crossover attacks. Marvel vs. Capcom 2 may be over 2 years old but it doesn’t look it on the PS2. The characters are just a tad pixilated and the intricate animations have translated smoothly to the PS2 – not an easy feat. Everything from Anakaris (Darkstalkers mummy) springy jump to Venom’s super slick sludge movements animate with an anime flair that sports style and some good laughs – Jill Valentine sending endless zombie dogs and crows as attacks is hilarious. The 3D backgrounds are full of life and look clean on PS2. 2D purists might baulk at polygon backdrops but it doesn’t detract from all the 2D goodness that’s already packed in the game. The sound is standard and isn’t crystal clear nor distorted. It sort of has the “gets the job done” feel that Capcom vs. SNK 2 had. No load times for character switches keeps action swift. Marvel vs. Capcom 2 is a solid 2D fighter. The PS2 port is an excellent adaptation of a classic fighter. The title really deserves a sequel (bring on #3 Capcom!) but this should tide you over till it comes.
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