--Main Stage Game at Evo 2022!-- The ultimate Skullgirls experience: Featuring 14 hand-animated characters, fully voiced story mode, countless palettes, and unparalleled GGPO-based multiplayer netcode.
Skullgirls 2nd Encore boasts a roster of 14 hand-animated characters, each with their own unique playstyle and mechanics. For example, players can choose the amnesiac schoolgirl Filia, who utilizes a parasite named Samson for her attacks, or the little girl-turned-cyborg Peacock, whose moveset is inspired by classic cartoons. This diverse cast allows players to find a fighter that suits their preferred approach, whether that's a rushdown specialist like Ms. Fortune, a grappler like Cerebella, or a zoning character like Peacock.
One of the game's standout features is its exceptional balance. The developers have meticulously tuned each character, ensuring that players have a wide range of viable team compositions to experiment with - be it a single strong fighter, two medium-heavy hitters, or three weaker characters working in tandem. This balance extends to the game's mechanics, which strike a perfect balance between accessibility and depth.
The comprehensive tutorial does an excellent job of explaining both basic and advanced fighting game concepts, making it an ideal entry point for newcomers. Experienced players, on the other hand, will find ample room for growth, as the game's intricate combo systems, mixups, and advanced techniques offer a high skill ceiling to master.
The game further differentiates itself with innovative systems like the Infinite Prevention System (IPS), which prevents infinitely looping combos, and the Undizzy System, which allows players to break out of lengthy hit strings if their "Undizzy" meter is full. These mechanics help create a more balanced and fair gameplay experience.
Responsive controls are a crucial aspect of any fighting game, and Skullgirls 2nd Encore excels in this area. Thanks to the game's use of GGPO netcode, online matches feel as tight and seamless as local play, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for both casual and competitive players.
The team-based gameplay, which allows players to choose teams of up to three characters and call in assists, adds an extra strategic layer to the experience. Carefully considering character synergies and team compositions becomes a key part of the gameplay, further enhancing the depth and replayability.