Darkstalkers 3

"Slightly Imperfect Conversion"

Darkstalkers 3 is the Playstation counterpart of the game Vampire Hunter by Capcom. It is a traditional 2D beat-em-up in the vein of Street Fighter. However, Darkstalkers 3 improves upon many of the play mechanics associated with the Street Fighter series; it also features newer innovations that make any Street Fighter game pale in comparison. Due to the limited RAM capabilities of the Playstation hardware, many animations were sacrificed in favor of outstanding gameplay. When this game had first been released in 1998, I had no idea that anything was missing. It plays wonderfully and looks amazing for the Playstation. Only years later, until I got my hands on Vampire Savior for the Saturn, did I notice what was left on the cutting room floor. I now play the Saturn version (which is superior, graphically). However, I still own this game and would not dream of letting it go.

Graphics: Darkstalkers 3 for the Playstation lost many of the background animations. Some characters are also missing frames of animation. This, ofcourse, is barely a distraction as you would only notice if you were an avid Vampire Savior fan (as I happen to be). The super moves look great, the characters all retain their personality, and everything moves fluidly. I'd give the graphics for this game 8/ 10.

Sound: The soundtrack for this game happens to be one of the best produced by Capcom. While not quite up to par as the memorable Street Fighter 2 tunes, the music is by no means lame. It fits the game perfectly. Character sounds are very crisp and audible. I'd give the sound a 9/ 10.

Gameplay: The Playstation control pad is perfectly suited for this game. I've had no trouble pulling off most off the moves. However, certain supers, as in the case of Morrigan and Demitri, require much practice to execute. This game is pure fun. 10/ 10.

Replay; This game has tons of replay value. You can unlock two EX modes. Options can be set to change the music and fighting styles to this games' predecessors (the original Darkstalkers and Vampire Hunter). Vampire Hunter was never released in the United States. A vast collection of character art can be unlocked. There is even an edit mode to create different palettes for the characters. You can even rename them and build up their strength. An easy 10/ 10.

Overall: As you can most likely discern, I'm very much a fan of Darkstalkers 3. By far, this is one of the best conversions by Capcom for the limited Playstation hardware. Much dedication went into making this game stand out of the shadow of the more famous Street Fighter series. I'm surprised this game is not more popular in the United States. Until this game had been released, I had never heard of Darkstalkers (Vampire), Vampire Hunter, or Vampire Savior. I'm glad I trusted a review by PSX magazine which highly praised this game. I ran out to buy it and to this day the Vampire series is my most absolute favorite. I highly reccomend this game to anyone with even a remote interest in 2D fighters. If you have a Saturn, get Vampire Hunter and Vampire Savior as well. Both are imports. Also, consider Vampire Chronicle (import) for the Dreamcast. As well as Vampire Chaos Tower for the PSP.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 12/26/05