Fate/Extella Link

This action title is somewhat fun if you're playing with friends, but its repetitive action will only appeal to fans of the series or to players who want to see these random characters thrown together. Fate/Extella Link is the latest chapter in the Fate/Extra saga, picking up immediately after the events of 2016's Fate/Extella: The Umbral Star. In fact, this particular entry could easily be mistaken for an expansion to the previous game, as opposed to a self-contained story. While the story is an extension of the original's plot, with a new threat appearing to try to take control of the Moon Cell Automaton's power, the gameplay and presentation are virtually unchanged. The game relies heavily on button mashing during its action sequences, with players whipping out swords, spears, and other melee attacks mixed with flashy magic spells to wipe out rooms filled with generic virtual armies.

While there's not a lot of strategy required to tear through the throngs of enemies, there's still some element of skill to get the best timing down and link together massive chained combos. Still, it's a repetitive formula that's thankfully broken up with some light role-playing elements. But one major change in Fate/Extella Link is the addition of local and online multiplayer support for up to eight players. Four-on-four matches bring both a co-op and a competitive element to the tried-and-true formula, as well as that classic feel of gathering with friends at an arcade and wearing out the buttons of an old-school beat-'em-up. And make no mistake, the game is definitely a test of your controllers' endurance. Still, it's an interesting story, especially if you're already a fan of the Fate/Extra series. If you're a newcomer, it sort of feels like you've walked into the theater halfway through the movie, though you can fill in the gaps if you're patient and observant.