"This game could have been a lot better."

I am not impressed. This should have been a great game, with many improvements, but it felt like a remake of the previous installments. A little like what Namco did on Tekken 4. But at least Tekken had the improvements where it needed it the most. There are only two new characters, which is pretty sad. A new game needs new things, especially characters.

Graphics: 7/10 – The graphics could have been a lot better. They didn’t use the playstation 2 to its full potential. However, the characters have smooth graphics but the details are limited. The special effects are okay, but not that great. The arenas weren’t all that remarkable, but they did improve from the previous games.. The different character costumes are better. Instead of simple color swaps, you get something new.

Sound: 8/10 – I am not too hyped for the sound. But this game had nice sound effects and the music pumped me up. The sound effects are great, but remind me of BR2.

Gameplay: 5/10 – This game has an awful fighting system. There is no strategy in it at all. Basically you have to just run in and pound the opponent with stupid combos. Horrible combos, if I may add. I felt like I was playing Street Fighter! Yeah that’s right… STREET FIGHTER. The combo system is weak, one button combos, and half of them nearly kill you on the spot. The AI system is cheap as hell. Let me say it again, the AI system is cheap as hell. If anything knows how to drain your life down with ridiculous combos, it’s the AI in BR3. The controls are very basic, not challenging at all… but it’s not fun to learn this game.

Replay Value: 4/10 – I’m sorry, (not really), but this game isn’t that great at all. If you’re stopping by at Best Buy and they have the game for trial, go play it for a few minutes. It’s appealing at first, and you want to keep playing it. But once you get home with the game, you’ll regret it. Rent it first. You’ll see how dry this game is.

Overall: 6/10 – With the lack of arenas, and poor gameplay. This game should not be bought. I would recommend you renting it, or going over to a friend’s house. The thing that makes this game halfway descent is the graphics. Don’t expect much change in this game from the other two. It doesn’t take too long to learn this game, but it’s frustrating at times. I’m sure hardcore Bloody Roar fans will enjoy this game, but it won’t be that great.

Reviewer's Score: 6/10, Originally Posted: 12/07/02, Updated 12/07/02