'Arms' release date, news: Title operates on rock-paper-scissors mechanism

(YouTube/ Nintendo)"Arms" game has unique characters with varying skills and different sets of arms available to them.

The Nintendo Switch is arguably one of the revolutionary developments in gaming for 2017. As such, it is paired up with equally unique games with controls first of its kind, and "Arms" is one of those titles that exudes a breakthrough in fighting games.

"Arms" is a Nintendo Switch-exclusive game that uses a player's movements for commands within the game instead of button controls. This means a more immersive gameplay, as the gamer thinks of his actions more, bringing him closer to the fight.

At first glance, it looks like button-mashing is replaced by punching incessantly to gain the upper hand. When it was revealed during the Nintendo Switch Presentation 2017, most viewers must have thought that it was as simple as landing the most damages through speedy attacks, but apparently it is deeper than that.

The recent gameplay reveal discussed during the Nintendo Treehouse shows that "Arms" revolves on the principle of rock-paper-scissors. Throws go through blocks, blocks render punches useless, and punches deflect throws. This means it is important for a player to read the actions of his opponent in order to be victorious.

Even the choice of character adds to the depth of the gameplay. Spring Man is considered a versatile character, Ribbon Girl is great with vertical spaces, Ninjara is able to evade and overwhelm by vanishing and reappearing strategically, Master Mummy can heal while he blocks, and Mechanica can steer herself in midair.

It doesn't stop there just yet. Prior to a fight, a player can choose among three types of arms for each arm, and the selection is unique for each character. This means that even if two players use the same fighter, the way it attacks is going to be different.

Aside from the fighters, the stage also plays a key role in one's battle strategy. There are pillars that can serve as defenses against enemy punches, while there are arenas with secret trampolines in the middle, allowing the player more mobility.

Given these observations, one can expect that "Arms" is not the typical fighting game; rather, it will take wits and quick observation. The game becomes available by spring 2017.

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