Introduction to Evil Zone
Evil Zone, released in Japan as Eretzvaju, is a cult-classic 3D arena fighting game developed by Yuke's and released for the original PlayStation in 1999. Unlike traditional 2D or 3D fighters of its era like Tekken 3 or Soulcalibur, Evil Zone set itself apart with a distinctly cinematic anime aesthetic, an episodic story mode structured like a Saturday morning TV anime, and an exceptionally accessible control scheme.
Whether you are revisiting this retro gem or discovering its dramatic special attacks and colorful cast for the first time, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from core fighting mechanics to character analysis and advanced combat strategies.
Unique Gameplay Mechanics and Control System
The defining feature of Evil Zone is its streamlined control setup. Rather than requiring complex directional motions or long button sequences, combat relies primarily on two main buttons: Attack and Guard, combined with directional inputs.
1. Attack and Movement Mechanics
Attacks change dynamically based on the distance between your character and the opponent. Characters operate across two primary ranges:
- Long Range: Pressing the attack button at a distance fires projectiles, energy blasts, or long-range magic. Holding directional inputs alters the trajectory and nature of these blasts.
- Close Range: Up close, the attack button executes physical combos, grabs, and high-impact melee strikes.
2. The Power Gauge and Pressure Attacks
Each fighter possesses a Power Gauge at the bottom of the screen that fills over time or when taking and landing hits. Collecting power crystals allows players to unleash devastating special moves:
- Pressure Attacks: Expending power crystals enables unblockable or heavy-damage attacks that break through an opponent's defense.
- Super Moves / Ultimate Attacks: By holding the attack button while possessing full power crystals, fighters trigger fully animated cinematic finisher moves capable of dealing massive damage.
3. Guarding and Countering
Defensive play in Evil Zone revolves around precise timing. Holding the Guard button creates a protective barrier. Successfully blocking right as an opponent attacks opens a brief window for immediate counterattacks.
Complete Character Roster and Playstyles
The roster of Evil Zone features ten distinct fighters, each representing popular anime tropes and genres ranging from magical girls and mecha pilots to dark sorcerers and street fighters.
Danzaiver (Sho Mikagami)
A classic tokusatsu-style sci-fi hero wearing high-tech armor. Danzaiver excels at mid-to-long range combat with his energy pistol and dash attacks, making him an ideal pick for beginners.
Setsuna Saizuki
A high school student harboring the spirit entity known as Karin. Setsuna utilizes versatile sword strikes and spirit summons, offering a balanced mix of rapid close-quarters combos and projectile traps.
Alty Al (Albert Van Stargazer)
A young court wizard equipped with powerful spellcasting abilities. Alty specializes in heavy long-range magic beams and area-of-effect spells that keep opponents trapped at a distance.
Kakurine
A mysterious, immortal child wielding ancient dark magic. Kakurine boasts some of the most potent long-range zoning moves in Evil Zone, capable of harassing enemies across the full arena screen.
Keiya Tenpouin
An elegant shadow exorcist who uses paper charms and dark magic. Keiya focuses on deceptive projectile paths and trap placement to control the pace of the match.
Lie Lancelot
A young knight wielding a massive holy sword. Lie offers heavy physical damage, long sword reach, and powerful rushing techniques that close the distance rapidly.
Midori Himeno
A passionate martial artist fighting to protect her family's dojo. Midori is a dominant close-range brawler with rapid multi-hit combos and throw setups.
Gally "Blood" Stealth
A rugged mercenary armed with a broadsword. Gally relies on slow but devastating heavy hits, punishing defensive mistakes with massive damage output.
Erel Plowse
A spirited warrior clad in knight armor. Erel mixes nimble physical rushdowns with mid-range energy slashes for aggressive offensive pressure.
Ih-Dur
The main antagonist of Evil Zone, an ancient entity sealed in another dimension. Ih-Dur is a formidable boss character equipped with screen-filling magic attacks and overwhelming offensive power.
Story Mode Presentation: Playing an Anime Series
Evil Zone features one of the most innovative Story Mode designs among PS1 fighting games. Each character's campaign plays out like a multi-episode anime broadcast, complete with:
- Opening Credits and Title Cards: Every chapter begins with an episodic intro and custom title card.
- Mid-Episode Commercial Bumpers: Transition screens mimic Japanese TV commercial breaks.
- Next Episode Previews: Winning a fight triggers a fully voice-acted preview teasing the next opponent.
Essential Combat Tips and Strategies
- Master Range Control: Learn the exact distance where your character transitions from long-range projectiles to close-range melee attacks.
- Manage Power Crystals Wisely: Avoid rushing to spend power crystals immediately; save them to break high-pressure defense or seal a round with an Ultimate Attack.
- Utilize Sidestepping: Dodging sideways allows you to bypass heavy linear beam attacks and punish opponents from their flank.
- Capitalize on Counter Guarding: Time your guard inputs to deflect incoming special attacks, leaving enemies vulnerable to full melee punishment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Evil Zone difficult for beginners?
No, Evil Zone is considered one of the most accessible fighting games on the PlayStation 1 due to its simplified two-button control scheme and intuitive distance-based attacks.
How do you unlock Ih-Dur in Evil Zone?
To unlock Ih-Dur as a playable character, complete Story Mode with specific characters or complete Single Mode on higher difficulty settings depending on your region's version of Evil Zone.
What makes Evil Zone different from other retro fighting games?
Evil Zone stands out due to its cinematic camera angles, anime TV show presentation, simple inputs, and dramatic full-screen finisher animations that feel like watching an interactive anime episode.
Final Thoughts
Evil Zone remains a unique and entertaining entry in the PlayStation library. Its blend of accessible fighting mechanics, cinematic flair, and nostalgic anime broadcast presentation makes it a standout retro title worth playing today.
