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GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE-

PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2021

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Quick resume

The cutting-edge 2D/3D hybrid graphics pioneered in the Guilty Gear series have been raised to the next level in “GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE-“. The new artistic direction and improved character animations will go beyond anything you’ve seen before in a fighting game!

Global score

88/100

Genres

Action

Pros

  • Accessible yet deep fighting mechanics
  • Outstanding soundtrack and visual design
  • Strong tutorial and training modes
  • Active and supportive community
  • Smooth rollback netcode for online play

Cons

  • Occasional balance issues and meta dominance
  • Limited cooperative gameplay options
  • Some players find lobby system fiddly
  • Steep learning curve for newcomers
  • Seasonal balance patches can be slow

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players can freely choose from a diverse roster with unique playstyles and develop their own combos and strategies."

  • Competence
    5

    "The game rewards skillful play, offers deep mechanics, and provides extensive tutorials and training modes to improve player competence."

  • Competition
    5

    "Strong emphasis on ranked matches, online play, and competitive skill expression with leaderboards and matchmaking."

  • Continuation
    4

    "Many players report habitual, long-term engagement and repeated returns to the game despite frustration."

  • Cooperation
    -3

    "Primarily a 1v1 competitive fighting game with limited cooperative modes; some requests for co-op AI modes exist."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players experiment with combos, character tools, and customizations; modding scene adds further creative expression."

  • Domination
    2

    "Competitive environment includes trash talk and dominance displays, but also mutual respect and community support."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Players use the game as a form of stress relief, distraction, and immersion in a fantasy world with strong emotional connections."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Engagement is driven by intrinsic interest and personal desire rather than obligation or external pressure."

  • Experimenting
    4

    "Players explore new tech, combos, and character strategies, supported by community-shared combo libraries."

  • Exploration
    2

    "Some narrative and lore exploration exists, but gameplay mostly focuses on known stages and match setups."

  • Expression
    3

    "Customization of avatars, skins, and mods allows for self-expression within the game."

  • Fantasy
    5

    "Strong anime-inspired fantasy setting with imaginative characters, storylines, and heavy metal aesthetics."

  • Fellowship
    3

    "Active community and social interaction through online play and Discord servers foster a sense of belonging."

  • Growth
    5

    "Players experience significant learning and skill development through tutorials, practice, and competitive play."

  • Health
    -4

    "Primarily sedentary gameplay with no physical activity elements; some humor references to unhealthy habits."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires focused attention and continuous engagement during matches; not suited for passive or background play."

  • Intimacy
    1

    "Some social connections and friendships form within the community, but limited to surface-level interactions."

  • Leadership
    1

    "Some players take leadership roles in community and team settings, but the game focuses mostly on individual play."

  • Progression
    4

    "Players accumulate character upgrades, unlockables, and cosmetic items; progression through ranks and skill."

  • Relaxation
    2

    "While the game can be intense, some players find flow and catharsis in mastering mechanics and music."

  • Sensation
    5

    "Highly stimulating audiovisual experience with flashy animations, impactful effects, and a celebrated soundtrack."

  • Status
    4

    "Recognition through ranked play, community reputation, and visibility in tournaments and online leaderboards."

  • Story
    3

    "Narrative mode and lore provide immersive story elements, though gameplay is mostly separate from story."

  • Strategy
    5

    "High emphasis on mental challenge, planning, mind games, and tactical decision-making in combat."

  • Thrill
    4

    "Players enjoy suspense, risk, and excitement from close matches and high-stakes competitive play."

  • Value
    4

    "Players perceive strong value from the game’s content, soundtrack, and ongoing developer support."

  • Violence
    3

    "Combat-focused gameplay with impactful attacks and destruction, though stylized and fantastical rather than realistic."

  • Survival
    3

    "Players manage health and resources to avoid defeat, with strategic defense and offense important in matches."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026