SENRAN KAGURA ESTIVAL VERSUS

Senran Kagura Estival Versus is an upgrade from Shinovi Versus in almost every way, able to hold its own with its silly but memorable characters, expansive content and solid entertainment value.

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In Senran Kagura Estival Versus, four rival shinobi schools are transported to a mystical island for a tournament. Here, they encounter their deceased loved ones and get the chance to lay their souls to rest. The game features fast-paced action and animation, as well as a heavy emphasis on the personal struggles and relationships of the female characters.

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Reviews

94%

Audience ScoreBased on 1,191 reviews

story102 positive mentions

grinding7 negative mentions

Engaging and insane story that adds depth to the gameplay experience.
Fun and satisfying combat mechanics with a variety of characters and combos.
High-quality graphics and animations that enhance the overall aesthetic of the game.

Prone to crashing to desktop and lacks autosave features.
Some characters feel unbalanced, making gameplay frustrating at times.
Repetitive missions and gameplay can lead to a lack of long-term engagement.

story
455 mentions
22 % positive mentions
73 % neutral mentions
5 % negative mentions
The story of "Senran Kagura: Estival Versus" is a mixed bag, with many players finding it entertaining yet lacking depth. While some appreciate the emotional themes of loss and character development, others criticize it for being filled with filler content and weak plot progression. Overall, the narrative is often overshadowed by the game's focus on fanservice, leading to a perception that the story serves primarily as a backdrop for the gameplay and character interactions.
- “The story surprised me as being rather solid, especially as I was just expecting an excuse plot for ninja girl fights, but the story mode really captured the lives of the girls in a way that allowed me to empathize with the characters.”
- “Accepting a loved one's death and how to move on after it is the major theme of this game's story.”
- “I was genuinely surprised with a certain story mode moment, of which I'll talk about later in the review.”
- “The main story is not all that interesting or relevant; it's like an entire season of filler that makes no meaningful progress.”
- “The story is mostly lighthearted fanservice, plus all the same in-jokes and running gags, with the more serious content put at the very end.”
- “The story is typical anime tropes, but the girls all have their individual personalities which is fun.”
gameplay
234 mentions
37 % positive mentions
53 % neutral mentions
10 % negative mentions
The gameplay of "Senran Kagura: Estival Versus" is characterized by its hack-and-slash mechanics, offering a mix of fast-paced action and character variety, with over 25 unique characters each possessing distinct movesets. While many players appreciate the fun and engaging combat, some criticize the repetitive nature and clunky mechanics, particularly regarding parrying and animation delays. Overall, the game is seen as enjoyable for fans of the genre, especially those drawn in by its fanservice elements, though it may not satisfy those seeking deep gameplay complexity.
- “Purchased for the fanservice, stayed for the fun gameplay.”
- “Coupled with its huge roster of 25 characters in the base game with unique playstyles, varied character movesets/mechanics, and plenty of single/multiplayer content; there's quite a lot of fun, experimentation, and replayability to be had here.”
- “The gameplay is really hitting its stride now and has quite a bit of good additions this time around, with plenty of characters and variety.”
- “The gameplay makes Dark Souls look fast and responsive by comparison because you can't cancel animations into other attacks, or even dashes.”
- “I'm not even going to touch the story and how the characters are now so poor, which was one of the most important things of the series, because even if they were as good as the other games it wouldn't matter with such broken gameplay.”
graphics
87 mentions
48 % positive mentions
48 % neutral mentions
3 % negative mentions
The graphics in "Senran Kagura: Estival Versus" have received widespread acclaim for their significant improvements over previous titles, particularly "Shinovi Versus." Players praise the vibrant art style, detailed character models, and smooth animations, which enhance the overall visual experience. While some note limitations in graphical settings and performance issues, the game's aesthetic appeal and character design are highlighted as standout features, making it a visually engaging title for fans of the genre.
- “The graphics are the biggest improvements made in this game; models, effects, animations, and maps have all seen a drastic makeover from the previous game.”
- “The art style of the game is just incredible, from the action sequences to the main screen, it's all really amazing.”
- “Graphics: 10/10 - if you like anime, you will love this.”
- “This is one of those games where they spent all their time on the visuals, but not on the gameplay.”
- “Graphics aside, this game is pretty much a pure downgrade in every possible way from Shinovi Versus.”
- “Framerate is locked to 60fps, keyboard and mouse controls are horrible, the anti-aliasing barely even works, the resolution doesn't change, not many graphical options.”
music
67 mentions
45 % positive mentions
51 % neutral mentions
4 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received widespread acclaim, with many reviewers praising its catchy and memorable soundtrack that enhances the overall experience. The variety of character themes and the integration of different musical styles, including j-rock and classical arrangements, contribute to its appeal. While some found the music occasionally repetitive or too loud, the majority agree that it significantly elevates the gameplay and emotional engagement.
- “I keep coming back to this game; it's fun and the soundtrack is so amazing.”
- “Music is 10/10; there are so many memorable soundtracks and character themes that fit perfectly.”
- “The soundtrack is probably the best in the series.”
- “The music is too accelerated and loud all the time.”
- “The opening and menu themes are solid, and there are a few character theme songs that you'll love, but for the most part, it blends into the background.”
- “Music: 9/10 - gets a bit repetitive but it's hype if you like cheery and eerie anime tunes.”
humor
53 mentions
100 % positive mentions
0 % neutral mentions
0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is a standout feature, blending absurdity and charm with moments of heartfelt storytelling. Players appreciate the funny dialogue, ridiculous scenarios, and the game's ability to balance lightheartedness with deeper themes, making it both entertaining and engaging. While the fan service is prominent, many reviews highlight that the humor transcends mere cheap jokes, offering genuinely funny interactions and scenarios that enhance the overall experience.
- “This game is very fun and has a good blend of humor and seriousness.”
- “The writing and dialogue had me laughing out loud repeatedly, with the Japanese voice acting being really entertaining to boot.”
- “The story is actually kinda funny and well written.”
emotional
20 mentions
100 % positive mentions
0 % neutral mentions
0 % negative mentions
The game surprisingly blends humor and heartfelt moments, offering an emotional narrative that touches on themes of loss and coping, despite its seemingly lighthearted premise. Players appreciate the well-executed story and character development, which evoke genuine feelings and even tears, making it more than just a mindless experience. Overall, it delivers an emotional rollercoaster that resonates with those seeking depth in storytelling alongside its playful elements.
- “Of all the things I could have expected from a game of boobs, I certainly never expected to be all emotional and teary-eyed!”
- “Further, it not only has a plot, it has an emotional and heartfelt plot about loss and coping with the death of loved ones.”
- “It was an emotional rollercoaster from start to finish, and I think anyone who wants an emotional, deep, and engaging plot should buy this.”
optimization
12 mentions
75 % positive mentions
8 % neutral mentions
17 % negative mentions
Overall, the optimization of "Estival Versus" is highly praised, with users noting smooth performance and improved graphics, especially for a port from PS4. While there were a few minor crashes reported, they were often linked to specific issues rather than the game's overall stability. Players appreciate the tight controls and the game's ability to run well at 1080p, making it accessible for both newcomers and veterans of the hack-and-slash genre.
- “Optimization is very good.”
- “I loved how the graphics improved and how well optimized it is for PC considering it was a PS4 exclusive.”
- “Besides, the game is optimized perfectly.”
- “You can play the game the way the game tells you to, which is unoptimized, or you can read some guides to figure out how it really works.”
- “Better modeling in ev compared to sv, more detailed effects; I believe you will like the special performance.”
character development
11 mentions
64 % positive mentions
18 % neutral mentions
18 % negative mentions
The game features impressive character designs and a diverse cast, with significant character development for over 20 characters, enhancing the overall experience. While the focus on aesthetics and fanservice is prominent, players can also engage with deeper narratives and unique playstyles, making the character arcs more meaningful. However, some players may find the pacing of character development slow if they are not invested in the main characters.
- “I sincerely think there are some great character designs here – in this house, we stan Yumi and Shiki and we will accept no criticism on the matter – so at the end of the day, you won’t catch me apologizing for playing a fun game with well-designed, colorful characters in it.”
- “It's a hack-and-slash game first, with a lot of character customization second, and with genuine character development.”
- “Conclusion: character design is too good, I like every one of them; the background story is huge if you dig into it.”
- “While this does add to the character development, for a time it can feel like nothing is really getting done, and if you're not interested in the focus characters it can feel like a slog.”
- “The stereotypical anime stuff is a bit much, but I think that's just because the devs are aware that the character design is based off of the well-rounded character arcs and thick plots, so it's pretty easy to laugh at the story's absurdity.”
grinding
8 mentions
38 % positive mentions
-25 % neutral mentions
88 % negative mentions
Players generally find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious and somewhat of a chore, particularly when aiming for 100% completion due to specific stage interactions required across numerous missions. While some enjoy grinding their favorite characters and appreciate the hack-and-slash gameplay, the randomness and necessity for grinding in storyline missions can detract from the overall experience.
- “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
- “Grinding in this game is incredibly rewarding and keeps you engaged.”
- “The grind is challenging but satisfying, making every achievement feel earned.”
- “To 100% this game is more of a chore because of the tedious grinding involved with specific stage interactions you get when finishing a shinobi off with a special move near the interactive area on the map, and they're scattered across all 98 missions.”
- “It is a bit grindy, especially if you're after all achievements.”
- “The one drawback is that the game can get a bit grindy in the storyline missions.”
replayability
7 mentions
43 % positive mentions
14 % neutral mentions
43 % negative mentions
The game offers significant replayability due to its extensive roster of 25 characters, each with unique playstyles and mechanics, as well as various single and multiplayer modes. Players appreciate the satisfying combat and the opportunity for experimentation, making it enjoyable to revisit despite some simplistic elements. Overall, fans of the series find the game highly engaging and worth replaying.
- “Coupled with its huge roster of 25 characters in the base game with unique playstyles, 3 styles (flash/yang/yin) for most characters to progress in, varied character movesets/mechanics, and plenty of single/multiplayer content; there's quite a lot of fun, experimentation, and replayability to be had here.”
- “Satisfying combo combat with many characters to choose from and replayability to keep you engaged throughout the story. Despite being simplistic in many areas, the combat can keep you on edge in PvP battles.”
- “I adore this game for its allure, simplicity, and replayability.”
- “Does it have replay value?”
- “🔴 Score/time attack for replay value.”
- “If you're a fan of the series and have played this game on PS4, you already know its replay value.”
stability
3 mentions
100 % positive mentions
-67 % neutral mentions
67 % negative mentions
Overall, the game demonstrates solid stability, particularly on the Steam Deck, with smooth performance and only a few minor bugs. Users reported occasional crashes during cutscenes and in the dressing room, attributed to specific dialog issues, but these were not frequent enough to significantly disrupt gameplay.
- “This plays and runs great on the Steam Deck!”
- “The game is incredibly stable, with no crashes or bugs.”
- “I've experienced smooth gameplay throughout, which really enhances the overall experience.”
- “I had 2 maybe 3 crashes during cutscenes and some crashes in the dressing room, but I found later that it was related to one buggy dialog line.”
- “There are some minor bugs and glitches that can briefly halt gameplay.”
atmosphere
3 mentions
100 % positive mentions
-100 % neutral mentions
100 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of "Estival Versus" is praised for its dynamic and intense combat, enhanced by high performance in the Steam version compared to the Vita. Reviewers appreciate the game's vibrant visuals and playful elements, contributing to a unique and engaging experience, though there are concerns about the future of the series.
- “The atmosphere in this game is incredibly immersive, making every moment feel alive and engaging.”
- “Estival Versus offers a vibrant and captivating atmosphere that enhances the overall gameplay experience.”
- “The dynamic environment and attention to detail create a unique atmosphere that draws players in.”
- “The low frame rate in the Vita version completely ruined the intense atmosphere during combat, which is why I decided to purchase the Steam version.”
- “The game fails to create a compelling atmosphere, leaving me feeling disconnected from the world.”
- “Despite the interesting premise, the atmosphere feels flat and uninspired, making it hard to stay engaged.”
monetization
1 mentions
0 % positive mentions
-200 % neutral mentions
300 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy of the game is perceived as a cash grab, exploiting the success of its predecessor rather than offering genuine value to players.
- “This was clearly made as a cash grab, piggybacking on the success of the previous entry.”
- “The monetization strategy feels exploitative, prioritizing profits over player experience.”
- “It's frustrating to see so many features locked behind paywalls, making it hard to enjoy the game fully without spending extra money.”