Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising is a 2D anime fighting game that emphasizes accessible controls alongside strategic depth. Players select from a large roster of characters drawn from the Granblue Fantasy universe and engage in one-on-one battles that reward both quick reactions and thoughtful decision making. The title runs on PC and supports crossplay with other platforms through rollback netcode for stable online matches.
Gameplay
Combat uses a four-button layout with light, medium, heavy, and unique attacks. Players can chain basic attacks into combos by repeating button presses, while special moves are available through simple directional inputs or a dedicated skill button. Multiple control schemes exist, including options that automate combos or provide full manual command execution.
New systems add layers to matches. Ultimate Skills enhance special moves at the cost of meter, often with added properties like projectile penetration or guard crush potential. The Bravery Point system introduces Raging Strikes that break guards during blockstrings and Brave Counters that push opponents away while defending. Skybound Arts deliver powerful supers once the gauge fills, with even stronger Super Skybound Arts available at low health. Additional tools such as Dash Attacks and Triple Attacks expand pressure options and mix-up potential during offense.
Training mode includes detailed frame data displays, situational drills, and character-specific combo trials that help players refine execution and learn matchups at any skill level.
Game Modes
Story Mode presents a narrative campaign structured in three parts, blending fighting sequences with RPG-style progression and character interactions. Arcade Mode offers a series of CPU battles with increasing difficulty and brief story context between rounds. Local Versus Mode allows direct matches against another player or the CPU with customizable rules.
Online options feature Ranked Matches where character-specific ranks determine matchmaking and Casual Matches for relaxed play without rank changes. Private Rooms support custom lobbies for tournaments or invite-only sessions. The central lobby includes party-style minigames such as obstacle courses and survival challenges that provide breaks from standard fights.
Character Roster and Progression
The roster spans more than two dozen fighters, each with distinct move sets, personalities, and visual flair. New characters continue to join through updates, expanding variety for both casual and competitive play. Color variants, including the set that unlocks variant number 22 for Beelzebub, Vikala, Sandalphon, and Galleon, let players customize appearances once the base game is owned.
Separate ranks per character encourage experimentation across the cast without affecting overall progress. Partners that accompany the player in menus add voiced commentary during wins and losses for extra personality.
Is It Worth Playing?
Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising maintains active development with regular balance adjustments and new content additions as recently as version 2.60. Reviews from major outlets highlight its approachable entry point for newcomers alongside meaningful depth for experienced players, resulting in generally favorable reception across critic aggregates and a Very Positive rating on Steam from thousands of user reviews.
The combination of strong visuals, reliable netcode, and varied modes makes it suitable for those seeking an anime-style fighter that balances accessibility with competitive elements. Fans of the Granblue series or players interested in fighting games that reward practice without overwhelming complexity will find consistent value in the current version.
