Most likely if you've even considered getting this game, it's because you love fighting games, guilty gear, Japanese fighters, or had a good recommendation. The action is very fun once you get baptized into the community. You WILL get murdered online if you haven't played before. DONT be scared. People do practice and it does take a little practice....but think about how many insane hours people put into adventure games, RPGs, shooters, and just games in general. All games have a learning curve, and this game is no different. However, once you get used to the frantic nature of the game, you'll be VERY happy you got it.
I haven't been able to play since I don't have a tv right now and because of an accident I got in a while ago, but I've played the previous 2 games, and was ranked fairly high in the first. Unlike street fighter, you'll come to have a "main," and a "sub" character. Respectively, your main is your primary character who will define you as a player. Think of him or her as being synonymous w/your favorite color; they will become part of you. Your sub will be another character you also like, who you'll practice after you have your main down pretty well. You'll know when you do. Just fry to be patient, there are lots of people willing to help, play casually, and just have fun, so don't get discouraged - many are willing to hold your hand. And with extensive forums available, with videos online , you'll never be lost.
The story in blazblue is also another great feature of the game. I must say, it's refreshing to have such an expanding, dynamic story with each major release. You can decide to indoctrinate yourself into the blazblue world...or just primarily play online. I chose the latter and basically got the entire story from listening to friends online. Later, I decided to try out story mode, and I was glad I did. The game doesn't force you to do something in story mode to unlock anyone, like most games did back in the day. Gone are the days of playing (a generic) story mode 13 times just to get ONE character. No way. Some people might be put off by the characters for being a bit "eccentric," or different, but it's a blessing. Truly. In addition, arc system works REFUSES to make cheap duplicate characters (e.g. Ryu & Ken, [old] smoke & scorpion) so all characters feel (and are) daftly unique. Bang for instance, a ninja, is the COMPLETE opposite of your typical ninja. he ISN'T quiet, he ISNT smooth or stealthy, and is the source of a lot of comedic relief. Even if you don't like bang as a player, he's sure to elicit A laugh from all who play. Think of bang as the class clown, although a lovable one who fights for justice. If you didn't already notice, bang's name speaks for itself. He even has his own theme song! one of MY favorite characters is the (incredibly) graceful litchi, a woman bang is completely infatuated with...but will never get (except in his dreams, literally). Though all characters move and combo with fierce conviction once you get acclimated to them, litchi especially plays as if each move was exquisitely choreographed. Now, since there are 19(!) characters on the roster, you'll never get bored. I forgot to mention earlier, but for each character, there's an extensive tutorial mode to ease you into learning how to play each character. It's hands down the BEST tutorial mode you'll ever play.
The great thing about this game is how ALL characters are equally strong. There are no "akumas" here who are much stronger in a "broken" sense. Naturally, some players are a bit easier to learn, or might have to work a bit more for damage, but all characters are a threat. I can't express how amazing this game is. Honestly...ever since playing mortal kombat trilogy, soul calibur, and guilty gear, this game snugly fits in with the other fighting greats as a notable title. Once you get some online friends, the online experience is wonderful. There's certainly a reason people keep coming back for more. The joy people have for the game is pleasantly palpable. Also, make sure you get yourself a bluetooth mic, itll be very necessary to talk online to avoid typing all day. If you have a PS3 and 360 consoles, or are getting this as a first game for a system, do yourself a favor and get the ps3 version. It has the best competition. Almost everyone agrees.
To fuel the spirit of competition, a well-implemented ranking system is put in place to encourage play. Along with that is a level system to mark your skill as you play. It's nice because with each fight you gain experience. You never go down a rank for losing, instead you just get a small amount of experience. To stay competitive, you'll need to get familiar with rapid cancels, barrier burst, and barrier block, among other things. As noted earlier, the tutorial mode teaches all of the things with finesse. After playing for a while, the combos you'll pull off will astound you and others. To complement these systems, AMAZING graphics are used.
Though not completely 3D, this game is like a work of art. All sprites are hand-drawn. If you have enough money, GET A GOOD 1080p TV. trust me, you'll be glad you did. The particle effects are nothing short of spectacular. I would go on and on about this game, but You should get the picture by now. If you're tired of cliche fighting games and the people who play them, this game is for you. So do yourself a favor and order this game and prepare for not only a game, but an experience.
P.S. If anyone wants to, add me to your friends list. I'm "glencocoe" and will be returning when I get the chance. I'm o. The ps3 version of the game.