Ordinal Fighting Fantasy: A Wild Ride Through Cyberpunk Dystopia!

Ordinal Fighting Fantasy (OFF) burst onto the scene back in 2015 and quickly gained notoriety for its unique blend of competitive fighting gameplay, quirky aesthetics, and a surprisingly deep narrative woven through the game’s mechanics. Developed by the independent studio Ludosity (known for their hilarious party game “Ittle Dew”) OFF breaks the mold of traditional fighting games while still delivering the intense one-on-one action that genre fans crave.

Unveiling the Dystopian Tapestry: The Plot Unfolds

The world of OFF is a neon-drenched cyberpunk dystopia where humanity’s obsession with technology has reached its zenith. Corporations rule, society crumbles, and a shadowy underground movement known as “The Order” fights against this oppressive regime. Within this chaotic landscape, the story focuses on the lives of 12 unique fighters, each representing different facets of this fractured society:

• The Hacker: A brilliant but enigmatic programmer battling for digital freedom.

• The Ex-Soldier: A grizzled veteran haunted by their past and seeking redemption.

• The Street Thug: A quick-witted brawler clawing their way out of the slums.

Each character has their own motivations, backstory, and ultimately a connection to the Order’s cause. As players progress through the game, they unlock these individual stories through “Story Mode,” a series of cinematic cutscenes interspersed with challenging battles against AI opponents.

Beyond Buttons: The Innovative Gameplay Mechanics

OFF throws away traditional fighting game tropes like intricate combos and complex command inputs in favor of a more accessible yet surprisingly deep system built around timing and momentum. Here’s where it gets interesting:

• The “Charge” System: Instead of complex button combinations, OFF utilizes a single charge meter that fills as your character attacks or takes damage. This meter dictates the power and range of your attacks.
• Momentum and Positioning:

Successful hits build momentum, making your next attack faster and stronger. Conversely, getting hit slows you down. Mastering this ebb and flow is crucial to victory.

• The “Order” System: Every fighter has access to special “Order Moves,” powerful techniques that can be activated by expending your charge meter. These moves range from devastating attacks to defensive maneuvers and even mind-bending tricks like teleporting or summoning clones.

This unique blend of mechanics creates a fast-paced, unpredictable fighting experience where every encounter feels fresh and exciting.

Visual Feast: Pixel Art Meets Cyberpunk Cool

OFF’s aesthetic is as unique as its gameplay. The game utilizes a vibrant pixel art style with bold colors, striking character designs, and a distinct anime influence. This stylistic choice perfectly complements the cyberpunk setting, creating a world that’s both visually arresting and brimming with personality.

Sound & Fury: A Soundtrack for the Streets

The soundtrack is another highlight of OFF, featuring a blend of pulsating electronic music, thumping industrial beats, and melodic synthwave tracks that capture the energy and intensity of the game’s world.

Beyond Single-Player: The Online Arena Awaits

While OFF offers a rich single-player experience, the real fun begins in online multiplayer. The game features ranked matchmaking, allowing players to test their skills against opponents from around the globe. You can also create custom lobbies for casual matches with friends or engage in tournaments for competitive glory.

Key Features:

| Multiplayer Modes | Ranked matchmaking, custom lobbies, and tournament support | | Visuals | Vibrant pixel art style capturing the cyberpunk aesthetic | | Sound | Energetic electronic soundtrack that complements the gameplay experience |

Is OFF for You?

Ordinal Fighting Fantasy is a game that defies categorization. It’s a fighting game at its core, but with innovative mechanics and a deep narrative focus that elevates it above the norm. If you’re looking for a fresh and exciting take on the genre, with stunning visuals and an addictively fun gameplay loop, then OFF deserves a spot in your gaming library.