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Story

Eretzvaju, known in the West as Evil Zone, is a 3D fighting game developed by Yuke’s and published by Titus Interactive for the PlayStation in 1999. The game features a distinctive blend of anime-inspired storytelling and fighting game mechanics, which sets it apart from other titles in its genre. The narrative of Eretzvaju unfolds in a universe where the powerful sorceress Ihadurca is threatening to destroy the world. Players take on the role of one of several unique characters, each with their own backstory, motivations, and fighting styles, to stop her.

The storytelling approach of Eretzvaju is notably episodic, with each character’s journey presented as a series of TV episodes complete with opening and closing credits. This format not only gives the game a fresh and engaging narrative structure but also provides depth to each character. The character roster includes a variety of archetypes, from the mysterious knight Keiya Tenpouin to the schoolgirl and magical fighter Midori Himeno, each bringing their own perspective to the overarching narrative. The game’s story mode rewards players with different storylines and endings based on the character chosen, encouraging multiple playthroughs to uncover all the narrative threads.

Gameplay

Eretzvaju distinguishes itself with its simplified control scheme, which makes it accessible to newcomers while still offering depth for seasoned players. The game employs a two-button control system—one for attack and one for defense—along with directional inputs to execute various moves and combos. This simplicity allows players to focus on the strategy and timing of their attacks rather than memorizing complex button combinations.

The game features a diverse cast of characters, each with unique abilities and fighting styles. Players can perform a range of standard attacks, special moves, and powerful finishing techniques known as “Super Moves.” These Super Moves are visually spectacular and are a standout feature of the game, contributing to its anime-inspired aesthetic. Additionally, the game includes a “Power Burst” system, which players can use strategically to gain an advantage in battle by boosting their character’s abilities temporarily.

Graphics and Sound

The visual style of Eretzvaju is heavily influenced by anime, with character designs and animations reflecting this artistic direction. The game employs 3D graphics with vibrant colors and detailed character models that capture the essence of each fighter’s personality. The arenas are designed to complement the characters, with thematic backgrounds that enhance the overall atmosphere of each battle.

The sound design in Eretzvaju is another highlight, featuring a dynamic soundtrack that aligns with the game’s anime roots. Each character has their own theme music, adding to the individuality of their storylines and enhancing the player’s engagement. The voice acting, available in both Japanese and English, is performed with a level of enthusiasm that matches the game’s over-the-top action and narrative style. The combination of music, sound effects, and voice acting creates an immersive audio-visual experience that complements the game’s unique presentation.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, Eretzvaju received a mixed reception from critics and players alike. Many praised its innovative narrative structure and the accessibility of its gameplay mechanics, which set it apart from other fighting games of the era. The anime-style presentation was also well-received, particularly among fans of the genre, who appreciated the blend of storytelling and combat.

However, some critics noted the game’s simplicity as a potential drawback, suggesting that it might not satisfy players looking for a more complex fighting experience. Despite this, Eretzvaju has maintained a cult following over the years, largely due to its distinct approach to storytelling and its memorable cast of characters. The game’s influence can be seen in later titles that have adopted similar anime-inspired aesthetics and narrative techniques, showing its lasting impact on the genre.

Conclusion

Eretzvaju stands as a unique entry in the fighting game genre, offering a blend of anime storytelling and accessible gameplay that remains memorable for many players. While it may not have achieved the same level of mainstream success as some of its contemporaries, its innovative narrative format and engaging characters have earned it a dedicated fan base. The game’s legacy continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts who appreciate its contribution to the evolution of storytelling in video games. Eretzvaju’s impact can be seen in the way it paved the way for future titles to explore similar narrative approaches, solidifying its place in the annals of video game history.