This being the first DOA game I have played I will have a different perspective than those familiar with the series. While the game play is not Soul Caliber, it is very familiar to those who enjoy the Tekken series. Yes the graphics are amazing and the enviornments for fighting are fun and often interactive. This is a great party game and it has enough different modes to keep you coming back for a while. Fighting purists will point to the Tekken series, but I was very disappointed with Tekken Tag for PS2. I think this game is great and was well worth the money, if you like fighting games and have friends you can fight with.