This mode is phenomenal because you are enabled to change your character from the head, down. Unlike DOA4 for the Xbox 360, you can literally create a unique character that you can truly call your own by customizing every article of clothing. Be it gloves, glasses, or even jewelry, you can do it all. These characters that you create can be saved and used in Quest Mode, Arcade, Versus, and Dojo modes so you can show off your custom character wherever you go.

The final, yet most important mode in VF5 is Quest Mode. In your quest, you enter various tournaments and matches in virtual arcades where you fight rivals and work your way to the very top of elite fighters. When you begin a quest for the first time, you select a character of your liking and get to fighting immediately. On your quest screen, you can choose where to fight. Some arcades target poor fighters, while some are meant for highly experienced veterans of the series. There are seven different arcades that you can fight in, all from novice to master. Although the novice arcades have relatively simple matches, the harder arcades certainly will give you a run for your money if you are not a seasoned player. This is why it is extremely important to practice in Dojo mode and select a Quest character very wisely. I can’t begin to tell you the amount of hours of sleep we lost after getting whooped by the computer generated combat masters in VF5. The feeling of insecurity is unbearable after something like that. So again, take heed, please practice before you enter Quest mode or you will become all too familiar with frustration rather than fun. As you progress through the ranks from these arcade games, you will occasionally be invited to arena matches. Here is where official Virtua Fighter Tournaments are held. There are a lot of tournaments to be had but are rarely available since you will have to unlock them so to speak. Tournaments also grant you prizes such as money or articles of clothing.

Another factor of this game that only adds to its already extensive list of excellence is the replay value. Each character is incredibly unique and pose as completely new and challenging fighters to master. Beating Quest mode with each could take you a year if you were truly up to the daunting task. Besides character replay value, you can buy clothing, and unlock many insignias that you can use to represent your character which only furthers customizability options.

Overall, this game should keep you busy until March when all of the hugely anticipated and critically acclaimed titles are being released for PS3, such as Motorstorm, F.E.A.R., and The Elder Scrolls: Oblivion.