This game is phenominal. Like many others, it was my introduction to the series which I'm now in love with. Although the brawler gameplay can be a bit dull and uninspired at times, the constant rush of adrenaline the story gives you to power through the sections cancels it out.

Engaging characters are tied into SEGA's best story to date. The stakes are always extremely high, and another twist is just around the corner to drive the stake that little bit further into your heart. The final chapter in particular I was not ready for. Sakura and Kamiyama meeting Sakura's (dead) mother back in time and her reaction seeing them grown up before she died had me in pieces, extremely heartwrenching. The final 5 hours or so made me cry more than any piece of media ever and the ending (despite being happy) completely broke me.

You must not miss this game if you're a SEGA fan or a fan of Japanese games in general. My game of the generation.