hen I can make the claim that the Game Boy Advance has a more robust library of fighting games than the GameCube, I think it’s safe to say that Soul Calibur II is the injection of life that this system so desperately needs. Seeing that Namco is releasing this game simultaneously across all three systems won’t necessarily help Nintendo’s case, but I have a sneaking suspicion that the GameCube incarnation will be the one that people flock to and crave the most.

The crafty folks at Namco decided to attach an exclusive character to each version of the game. In such, Heihachi (a Tekken veteran) can only be found on the PlayStation 2. Additionally, the legendary comic book hero and failed movie star, Spawn, has made his home on Xbox. Both of these characters bring something different to the arena, but they simply pale in comparison to the bonus combatant in the GameCube incarnation. By a stroke of genius, Namco has plucked the adult version of Link out of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and has integrated his combat prowess into the framework of this fighter. I had my doubts as to how he would fit into the fold; but after putting this game through its paces, Link is now – far and away – my favorite character on the SC II roster. In my humble opinion, he’s reason enough to invest in the GameCube version.

If you’re worried about the controller not being able to handle this fighter’s fevered gameplay pitch, rest easy – this game was designed for the GameCube controller. Namco definitely factored the controller layout into the development of this title’s gameplay. There is one trouble zone, however. If you prefer playing with a digital pad, this unit’s microscopic d-pad is a definite turnoff.

Namco has once again tailored the game to every type of player. If you enjoy gaming by your lonesome, Weapon Master mode will keep you occupied for days on end. This mode features an array of circumstance-based stages set across 10 expansive chapters. You’ll even find yourself facing off against an alternate version of Link who just happens to be wielding a butterfly net instead of a sword. By progressing in Weapon Master mode, you’ll unlock a handful of awesome features like new play modes, different weapons, art galleries, and extra characters.

For those of you who thrive off of the thrill of head-to-head play, the multiplayer experience is just as rewarding. Mastering character combos and perfecting the timing of the guard block (which replaces reversals) will lead to a Zen-like fighting prowess and some of the most intense battles in all of gaming.

Little can be said about the quality of Soul Calibur II. The gameplay is endless in scope and its visuals will leave you with a wide-eyed gaze. It’s a remarkable fighter that just happens to feel the most at home on GameCube.  

JUSTIN LEEPER   8.5 Link is the fighter gamers are screaming for, so this version of Namco’s blockbuster is an automatic favorite. I agree he’s damn good to do battle with – almost to the point of being unbalanced. For people familiar with this series’ former console offerings, you’ll need to give yourself time to adjust to the button layout, as it’s subtly different. The advantage is that you can hit all three attack buttons with ease for a power-up. Weapon Master mode can get frustrating, especially on the second time through, but it’s definitely something to do while your buds are working or hanging with their girlfriends (losers!). Still, multiplayer is where Soul Calibur II’s best experiences lie. The guard break moves really bring defense up to the forefront of strategy. I just wish the new characters were a little more compelling. This is easily the best GameCube fighter so far this year.