Skullgirls 2nd Encore Review for Nintendo Switch

Skullgirls 2nd Encore, originally named Skullgirls and then re-released as Skullgirls Encore, is a crowdfunded 2D fighting game developed by Lab Zero Game and published by Skybound Games. Skullgirls 2nd Encore was originally released, with this name, in 2015 for PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, and PC. It was released for Nintendo Switch in October 2019.

            Jumping into this game, I will admit, I was very confused. I had no idea what was happening. There isn’t a tutorial to open up the story mode, instead you have to go to a tutorial specific mode. I did not realize this until after I had already played for a little while and had gone back to explore the menu more thoroughly. I also wasn’t sure what the story actually was. The opening scene was very vague, though intriguing. Depending on what character you choose to play as depends on the back story you slowly receive, though you get some of the other characters back story as the character you choose interacts with them. I originally thought this was the second game, and not a re-re-release. It took me digging into the game to realize that I wasn’t missing context from the first game.

            After researching the game and putting pieces together, I do really like the concept of the story. The game takes place in the war-stricken Canopy Kingdom where everyone is attempting to obtain the Skull Heart. This gem can grant a gift of any girl who is worthy enough but none have been thus far. When the unworth girl asks for something they are cursed and become Skullgirls. A new Skullgirl has emerged and all of the characters have their own personal reason for confronting her and seeking the Skull Heart. I love this story a lot. I think it would make an awesome anime. It reminds me of the anime Soul Eater. I just wish it was clearer earlier on so you could enjoy the game without being distracted by trying to figure out what exactly is happening.

When it comes to gameplay, I have to admit that I am a button masher when playing 2D fighting games. Whether it is Mortal Combat, Super Smash Bros, or any of the Marvel/DC melee games, I have never been one to memorize combos, much to the announce of whoever I am playing with. I wish I could say otherwise. So when it came to Skullgirls 2nd Encore, I approached this game with the same method. Unfortunately, I was not very successful. I am not sure if it was the lack of a tutorial at the beginning of the story mode or if this game needs more of a structured technique to actually advance. Even when I went back and played the tutorial, it was still very difficult to follow along and didn’t seem to make it easier to advance in the game.

            Besides the story, art and music in this game are my favorite parts. The character designs are amazing and super unique. There is such a wide cast of characters as well and Lab Zero Games has added characters, both temporarily and permanently, since releasing the game. Each character is very distinct and has their own backstory. There isn’t design in this game that I don’t like. The music in the game is also really good and thematic.

            Overall, I think this an interesting game with great characters. I don’t think this is a game I will play again but it has very positive reviews on Steam and other platforms it has been on for a while now. It has a dedicated fanbase and Lab Zero Games has worked really hard to develop and release this game. If you enjoy 2D fighting games this is one you should definitely have on your radar.

7/10

Check Out the Skullgirls 2nd Encore Nintendo Switch Trailer:

For more information about Skullgirls, visit  https://www.skybound.com/skullgirls.