The blazing squad returns

Here's a fun game: count all the fighting games on DS. After that, with your free hand, scroll down to look at the new trailer for BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II for 3DS, confirmed for a North American launch on 31st May.

While Super Street Fighter IV 3D Edition and Dead or Alive: Dimensions might be scrapping it out for the crown of "Best 3D Fighter" but Arc System Works' effort is firmly rooted in sprite-based animation. Interestingly, the official lowdown on the game states:

The Nintendo 3DS™ version of the game allows players to experience the next dimension of BlazBlue visuals with full 3D effects in nearly all modes of gameplay.

Check out the game's 2D visuals in the trailer below and stick with Nintendo Life for more 3DS news.

Rebel Two! Take the Action of BlazBlue Anywhere!

BlazBlue Continuum Shift II is Headed to PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) System and Nintendo 3DSTM

TORRANCE, Calif.–April 15th, 2011–Aksys Games, a publisher of interactive entertainment software, is pleased to announce that BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II will be headed to both the PSP® system and the Nintendo 3DS™ handheld system on May 31st. BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II is an enhanced port of the critically acclaimed BlazBlue: Continuum Shift, and the next installment in the popular 2D fighting game series known as BlazBlue.

BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II contains the complete set of single player features from the console version, such as Arcade, Story Attack, Training, and Story mode, and also has an ad-hoc Network mode for multiplayer play. This impressive list of features is topped off with new content created solely for the handheld version, including extra story material and brand new modes such as Legion 1.5 and Abyss Mode.

BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II features the full 18 character cast of the original BlazBlue: Continuum Shift, including the three DLC characters, Makoto, Valkenhayn, and Platinum. Furthermore, BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II also features the new system mechanics and game balance revisions introduced by the original Arcade version and system version 1.03. With all of these new features, BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II is a brand new fighting game experience sure to meet the expectations of fans everywhere.

BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II Key Features

All-New Single Player Content
Upgrade your character to reach the bottom in the new Abyss Mode, create an army to conquer your foes in the new Legion 1.5 Mode, polish your skills in the revamped Challenge Mode, and earn Platinum Dollars to unlock a host of in-game rewards.

Redesigned Fighting Experience
With new system mechanics, game engine revisions, and an entirely rebalanced roster from its original predecessor, BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II offers a fully updated fighting game experience for both veterans and newcomers alike.

Enhanced Story Features
BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II contains not only the full story of the original, but also brand new Story Mode and Arcade Mode segments for players to enjoy.

Ad-hoc Multiplayer
Ad-hoc multiplayer allows up to 4 players to participate in a single session. Two players will square off while the others are spectators.

3D Functionality
The Nintendo 3DS™ version of the game allows players to experience the next dimension of BlazBlue visuals with full 3D effects in nearly all modes of gameplay.