14 DAY TRIAL // Soulcalibur IV is one of the most anticipated fighting titles of the year, even if it brings way too many Star Wars characters in play (a total of three for both console versions). The good news is that you will probably be able to go through the game without fighting against these characters, which means that it won't affect you too much. The even better news is that the developers Namco Bandai have announced during the E3 media summit that the game reached gold status and would be shipped on the 29th of July this year.
The game has a suggested retail price of $59.99, while the limited Premium Edition will retail for $79.99. Also, if you just can't wait and want to enjoy some classic fighting action (and you own an Xbox 360), you can already purchase the original Soulcalibur for the Xbox Live Arcade for 800 MS Points ($10).
Soulcalibur IV is said to be remodeled from the ground up and the developers promise it will bring a perfected weapons-based fighting system, with stunning HD graphics and brand new gameplay mechanics. As an innovation, players will be able to destroy protective armor, thus weakening the enemy's resolve and then unleash Critical Finish moves. Also, Soulcalibur IV will bring you multiplayer, which means that, starting the 29th of July, you will be able to play against anybody in the world.
Also, if you plan to have a limited edition of the game, you should know that website Play.com is offering an exclusive face plate with all the Xbox 360 orders of Soulcalibur IV (yes, this means that the PS3 is ignored by Play), and this is definitely a must have for fans. Alternatively, you can pre-order it from GAME and receive a bonus DVD and an art book - all in a beautiful steel case, for the Xbox 360 and the PS3 version of the game. There are no exact details on what we will get on that "bonus" DVD, but extra goodies are always welcome.