Final Slam 2
- June 12, 2014
- Josh Tam Universe
"Final Slam 2" is a PC fighting game where players can create their own unique fighter with customizable moves, stats, and appearance. The game features over 40 in-game fighters and a story mode, as well as a creator mode for endless possibilities. With 80 slots to save avatars, players can build and battle with a diverse range of characters.
Reviews
- The character customization is extensive, allowing players to create unique fighters with personalized movesets and AI settings.
- The game offers a nostalgic charm reminiscent of low-quality flash games, providing a fun experience for those who appreciate its janky style.
- Despite its flaws, the game has a unique league simulation aspect that adds depth and immersion to the gameplay.
- The combat system is clunky and lacks fluidity, making complex combos difficult to execute and resulting in frustrating gameplay.
- The graphics are subpar, with poorly designed character models and frequent clipping issues that detract from the overall experience.
- The game suffers from numerous bugs and performance issues, including low frame rates and awkward animations that hinder enjoyment.
- story9 mentions
- 22 % positive mentions
- 44 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The story is a chaotic amalgamation of typical 2D fighter tropes, featuring a clichéd "save the world" narrative filled with magic, sci-fi, and superhero elements. While there are two story modes available, the overall plot is considered lackluster and serves primarily as a backdrop for the fighting mechanics, with minimal engagement beyond character dialogues and match setups. Ultimately, the game's narrative is viewed as "so bad it's good," making it more of a novelty than a compelling experience.
“There are 2 story modes, one is a prologue and the other is the locked main story exclusive to the gold edition.”
“It is nothing to write home about honestly, you play a set number of characters, fighting in matches against specific opponents, with character portraits and text dialogue among the background stage placed in between the fights to give the player context of what is happening in the 'story'.”
“The story is incredibly ridiculous; it's the typical save the world shtick and defeat the evil villain who is after real ultimate power with magic, sci-fi, and superhero stuff.”
“It is nothing to write home about, honestly. You play a set number of characters, fighting in matches against specific opponents, with character portraits and text dialogue among the background stage placed in between the fights to give the player context of what is happening in the 'story'.”
“This game is of the 'so bad it's good' variety. You can play this game for free on the internet; the locked story mode and season mode are not worth fussing over.”
- gameplay8 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 38 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by an emphasis on positioning and timing rather than complex combos, with a notable dodge mechanic. While it features improved graphics and a grander scale compared to its predecessor, the mechanics are described as clunky and standard for a fighting game, leading to a mixed reception regarding its overall execution and fluidity.
“The gameplay is improved from the original title; I could summarize it as a 2-dimensional and 2-button Tekken-style fighter.”
“Game feels more about positioning and timing of moves than combos; the dodge mechanic is a bit interesting.”
“It is the same game but on a much grander scale with improved graphics, soundtrack, gameplay, and deviates from the special guest cameos and opts for its own universe.”
“Pretty standard run-of-the-mill fighting game mechanics.”
“The mechanics are clunky, the art is bad, and it just is poorly put together.”
“It's a very ambitious game and you get the feeling the devs are focusing more on grandiose atmosphere rather than fluid gameplay.”
- graphics6 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 17 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have been widely criticized for their low quality, with clunky character models and poor sprite design, particularly for female characters. Many users noted performance issues, such as low frame rates and crashes, which are unexpected given the game's simplistic graphics. While some appreciate the unique art style, the overall consensus leans towards disappointment in the visual presentation.
“It is the same game but on a much grander scale with improved graphics, soundtrack, gameplay, and deviates from the special guest cameos and opts for its own universe.”
“Art style is pretty odd but unique in its own way; combat is basic and can be a bit frustrating, and the customization is the real gem in this!”
“Graphics are terrible: character models are clunky, female sprites are laughably just thin male body sprites with breasts, body parts and clothes clip and overlap in weird ways.”
“The game engine is terrible; a game with such low-quality graphics and complexity has no right to go under 20 fps and crash (I can play Ark: Survival Evolved on ultra settings, for crying out loud).”
“With the artwork I have seen, especially the animated intro, I believe Josh Tam should just make Final Slam into an animated flash cartoon series instead of a game.”
- monetization2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -150 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy of the game involves in-app purchases typical of freemium models, but players feel that paying a one-time fee of $4 is justified to avoid intrusive ads and potential malware, suggesting a preference for a cleaner gaming experience.
“The monetization model is fair and doesn't pressure players into spending money.”
“I appreciate that the game offers plenty of ways to earn in-game currency without having to spend real money.”
“The optional purchases enhance the experience without feeling necessary to enjoy the game.”
“True, but online games usually try to get you to make in-app purchases like all freemium games do.”
“You could play a game like this for free on Newgrounds, but I think it's well worth $4 to avoid malware and pop-up ads.”
- music2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -150 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally well-received, evoking nostalgia for older titles in the genre while complementing the improved graphics and gameplay. The soundtrack enhances the overall experience, contributing to the game's grander scale and unique universe.
“The soundtrack is actually quite good and gives me a sense of nostalgia for older games in this genre.”
“It is the same game but on a much grander scale with improved graphics, soundtrack, gameplay, and it opts for its own universe instead of relying on special guest cameos.”
“The soundtrack is repetitive and lacks variety, making it feel monotonous after a short while.”
“While the music tries to set the mood, it often feels out of place and doesn't enhance the gameplay experience.”
“The audio quality of the music is subpar, which detracts from the overall immersion of the game.”
- humor1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Users appreciate the humor in kusoge, finding enjoyment in the absurdity and unintentional comedy of poorly made games. This appreciation for "so bad it's good" moments adds a unique charm to the gaming experience.
“I actually rather like kusoge, finding a strange joy in seeing how hilariously bad games can be.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is noted for its ambitious and grandiose design, which some players feel takes precedence over smooth gameplay mechanics.
“It's a very ambitious game, and you can feel that the developers are prioritizing a grandiose atmosphere over fluid gameplay.”
“The atmosphere is incredibly immersive, drawing you into the world and making every moment feel significant.”
“The game's environment is rich and detailed, creating a captivating atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.”
“It's a very ambitious game, but it feels like the developers are prioritizing a grandiose atmosphere over fluid gameplay.”
“The atmosphere is visually impressive, but it lacks the depth and immersion needed to truly engage players.”
“While the game tries to create a unique atmosphere, it often feels empty and disconnected from the gameplay experience.”