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Game Pass is a godsend. Why? Well, it allows us to try out games that we’d otherwise avoid. One such experience is Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid. This fighting game captures much of the high-energy action from the franchise. Consequently, fans will adore the chance to play as their favourite character. However, everyone else will frown as they experience an otherwise well-trodden fighting endeavour.
Developed and published by nWay, Inc, this is a 3v3 tag team fighting title. Moreover, it can be played solo or with friends and strangers online. Moreover, there is a story mode, arcade action, and ranked matches. As such, it captures everything you’d expect from the genre. Alongside the basic game, the developers have increased their cash flow with a season pass. Consequently, I’m looking at the DLC for season pass 4 as well as the core game.
Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid lacks originality.
Creating an original concept is easier said than done. However, when a developer practically borrows every mechanic from their peers, it is a tad ridiculous. Sadly, Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid is reminiscent of nearly every major fighting title of the past 5 years. Now, this shouldn’t be an issue, as we’ve seen some great games. But when the execution is as lacklustre as this, you let out a disappointed sigh.
The main story is broken down over chapters that allow you to see fragments of an OTT plot. On top of that, you get to battle as your favourite person against some colourful characters. You control a team of Power Rangers as they try to stop Lord Drakkon from annihilating them. As such, the story ebbs and flows across time and space, while taking you on a whacky adventure.
3v3 battles of button-bashing hell.
Whether you are playing solo or against an online opponent, the action rarely changes. Consequently, you’ll endure plenty of 3v3 battles of button-bashing hell. To make matters worse, the AI is undeniably tough and is nigh on impossible to defeat. Subsequently, taking on the computer during the story mode is both tiresome and hard work. Yet, if you can vanquish your opponents, you’ll enjoy a rewarding time that culminates in a tough boss battle.
Where Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid excels is the player vs player fights. Whether it is ranked online for points and league status or the more casual unranked battles, it is great fun. Moreover, you can play offline locally against friends. Whichever option you choose, the action is more balanced. Furthermore, there is a distinct competitive edge that the story mode is sadly lacking.
Alongside the ranking matches, there are timed events to experience. These “episodes” allow you to earn medals to climb the Leaderboard. Consequently, if you manage to finish in the top 1000 players, you’ll be awarded a special banner to show off your fighting prowess. I know the reward is exhilarating and definitely worth the effort.
Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid does nothing new.
Visually, Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid is pretty bulk standard. Yes, there are an array of arenas to visit. However, these don’t make up for the familiar graphics. As such, the animation is smooth and serviceable, and each of the characters plays their role perfectly. Yet, its influences are obvious, adding to the lack of originality. Though I wasn’t impressed, I liked the clean UI and the excellent menus. Subsequently, navigating your options and observing your stats was well-considered.
The graphics didn’t wow me, but the aggressive audio was good. I enjoyed the loud and upbeat music that played constantly. Alongside this, the sound effects were suitable, and the acting enhanced the authenticity. Therefore, fans of the franchise will probably appreciate the developers’ efforts.
I hate button-bashing.
Rarely do I enjoy button-bashing games. I despise the lack of finesse and the madness that ensues. Consequently, Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid got under my skin. The mindless nature of the controls combined with the overpowered AI made it infuriating to play. Thankfully, an excellent tutorial and practice area alleviated some of the pain, but it could have been much better. However, what was great was the responsive and accurate inputs. As such, if fighting games are your thing, you’ll enjoy the layout and smooth action.
If you love the genre, then you’ll get plenty out of this game. With ranking “episodes”, Leaderboards, online and offline fights, and the story mode, there is plenty to see and do. What’s more, the season passes add extra characters to the fold.
Season Pass four includes 3 playable characters: Adam Park – MMPR Black Ninja Ranger, Poisandra – Dino Charge Villain, and Rita Repulsa – MMPR Villain. Alongside this, there is an exclusive Anubis Kruger Formal Attire Skin. Now, unfortunately, you don’t get a lot for £12.49. Disappointingly, the season pass doesn’t offer new game modes, extra arenas, or any further content. Therefore, I’d stick to the base game unless you’re a super fan.
Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid wasn’t for me.
I’m not the biggest fan of this genre or the Power Rangers. However, I can appreciate why people love both. Accordingly, I can see the pros and cons, and can also say that there are better fighting games. Yet, Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid will attract a strong following and that’ll help to keep the online action alive. As such, I enjoyed it and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you prevent the annihilation of the Power Rangers? Team up, tackle endless battles, and save the day.
