Chus Dynasty is developed by mHoesterey and was released on December 10th, 2010 for 240MSP. A copy of the game was provided by the developer for review purposes.

Chus Dynasty is a four player fighter along the lines of games like Small Arms or Super Smash Brothers. Each character has unique moves and fighting styles which means everyone can find a character that fits their style of fighting. Players fight through several levels taking on the other fighters to learn the origins of the gods.

Here’s what we liked:

Graphics – By looks alone this game stands out amongst the indie game scene. With bright visuals and a style all it’s own it looks better then many XBLA games that come out every week.

Multiplayer – Finally, a great fighting game that can be played with buddies on the couch. It’s something that seems to keep being looked over by many of the larger companies since online gaming has taken off. Up to four people can play at once. Players can play in teams or in a free-for-all last man standing match.

Abilities – Each character has a good size move list from combos to special moves, and each set of moves is unique to that character. Each one of the characters not only looks different but also feels different.

Here’s what we didn’t like:

Selection – Chus Dynasty falls very short in the variety department. There are only four characters total in the game, as well as only two levels that you get to fight on, three if you count that the final level which is a spin off of another level where the ground slowly descends into lava.

Controls – Although each character has a move list that is just theirs the moves are slow and clunky. The combo system is intact but very slow and hard to string together. Another flaw with the attacks is you feel stuck when you miss as your character does not move when you attack unless the attack you choose happens to be a slide attack or something of that nature.

No on-line – Couch-based multiplayer is great, but there is a total lack of on-line support. With online battling and maybe a ranking system this game could have replay value beyond having a group of friends over to play. It’s sad, there is so much potential here.

Chus Dynasty is a decent game in the end. Although short and lacking on choices it’s still good fun with a few friends. If you’re a “I play by myself” kinda guy this might not be the fighter for you. With a low price tag and a great start to what could grow into an amazing series this game was enjoyable on more then one level.

Score: Try it