PlayStation 5 Critic Reviews

Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds is proving itself to be eternal. Here we are, more than a decade from the game's initial release and it is as addictive and enjoyable as ever. This has truly become a beat 'em up classic and has demonstrated that it can stand the test of time. The Ultimate version is just that—the ultimate version of the game. It looks, sounds, and plays better than ever. Fans of the genre must experience this one and they will find a game that they'll keep in rotation forever.

Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds Ultimate, like many beat ’em ups, is not rife with complexity or plot. But it possesses an undeniable spirit in its chaotic joy, begging to be played by a group of friends wanting to churn through groups of enemies and watch the screen shake with fury. It’s an homage not entirely to the past but to the simple thrill of fun.

Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds Ultimate offers a ton of beat 'em up fun, especially if you're playing with chums. At the same time, there's no denying how repetitive it gets but the grind can certainly be entertaining, especially with such lovely sights and sounds.

Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds Ultimate is indeed the definitive version of a cult classic beat 'em up, featuring enhanced visuals, smoother gameplay, crossplay, and an optional remixed soundtrack. Some issues still remain, such as movement feeling a little clunky, but there's a lot of fun to be had whether playing alone or with others.

Missing the opportunity of bringing a new chapter to the series, Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds Ultimate is a basic revisiting of a competent beat 'em up.