Jitsu Squad is a local co-op 4-player arcade beat 'em up game with fast-paced, cartoony action and chaotic battles, reminiscent of classics like Streets of Rage or Double Dragon but with increased speed, scale, and intensity. There are four different playable characters to choose from, each with their own unique feel and unlockable move-sets.
The game provides an overall fun and satisfying experience. The graphics are highly polished and stylised, and each scene is packed with life and charm. The music is notably catchy and energetic, suiting the game perfectly.
The combat mechanics are easy to pick up, featuring smooth and responsive controls. The combo system has depth, discouraging button bashing and rewarding skill. By timing your combo hits, you can build up increased damage, while counters also give big damage bonuses. Weapons and special attacks are fun and add to the game, without being abusable. Button bashing is an option, but strategies and skills will get you through the game much quicker.
However, there are some shortcomings that impact the overall enjoyment. Principally, Jitsu Squad lacks any online multiplayer. Additionally, the employs a single save file, while preventing character switches or other players joining or leaving mid-game. Any change to how you want to play the game necessitates a restart and a loss of all progress.
Moreover, the abundance of on-screen enemies in multiplayer modes can lead to chaotic and confusing gameplay, undermining the value of the combat system and resulting in unavoidable hits.
In conclusion, Jitsu Squad caters to beat 'em up and fighting game enthusiasts, showcasing passion and polish. It is a tribute to the classics, but also adds its own flair and innovation. It also however make a few questionable design choices. Despite a fun multiplayer aspect and 4 unique characters, the game is only 8 short levels that can be completed in about 3 hours, and offers very little replay incentive.
I give this game 66%
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Title: Jitsu Squad
Jitsu Squad is a 4 player co-op beat 'em up with fast-paced cartoony action and wacky chaotic battles! It has the accessibility and classic brawler mechanics of games like Streets of Rage and Final Fight but with the speed and intensity of fighting games games such as Marvel vs. Capcom II, Dragonball FighterZ & Super Smash Bros. Master the difficulty, level up and use your unique special moves and weapons to take down the wicked sorcerer to save the galaxy!
Initial Release Date: Dec 9, 2022
Rated T for Teen
Developer: Tanuki Creative Studios
Publisher: ININ Games
Platforms: Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, PS5, PC, PS4
Genres: 2D Beat-'Em-Up