Machine Guides

Game History

Dead or Alive is a fighting game developed by Tecmo's Team Ninja, led by Tomonobu Itagaki, and first released to arcades in November 1996. Built on Sega's powerful Model 2 hardware, the game was created as a response to the success of Virtua Fighter, with Itagaki specifically aiming to bring back the classic arcade-style fighting game experience while adding unique elements of its own.

The game was an immediate commercial success in Japan, where Game Machine listed it as the most-popular arcade game for the last two weeks of December 1996. 

Dead or Alive established itself as a major fighting game franchise, known for its fast-paced 3D combat, distinctive hold-and-throw counter system, and impressive character models. The series would continue with numerous sequels across multiple platforms, cementing its place in fighting game history.

How to Play

Objective

The main goal of Dead or Alive is to defeat your opponent in a one-on-one martial arts match. You must win two out of three rounds to claim victory in a match. The ultimate objective is to progress through the tournament by defeating all opponents and become the Dead or Alive champion. The game emphasizes fast-paced 3D combat with a unique counter system.

Controls

• Joystick: Use the joystick to move your character forward, backward, and sidestep left or right
• Guard Button: Press to block incoming attacks
• Punch Button: Press to execute punch attacks and combinations
• Kick Button: Press to execute kick attacks and combinations
• Free Button: Press to execute special moves and counters

Gameplay

• Starting the Game: Press the Start Button to begin your tournament run.

• Character Selection: Choose your fighter from the available roster, each with unique fighting styles and moves based on real-world martial arts.

• Combat Mechanics: Engage in one-on-one combat using a combination of punches, kicks, and special moves. Each character has a unique set of moves that can be performed with different button and joystick combinations.

• Counter System: Execute counters by anticipating your opponent's attack type (punch, kick, or throw) and inputting the corresponding counter command at the right moment.

• Movement System: Use the joystick to move in all directions, including sidestepping to avoid attacks and create openings for counterattacks.

• Environment Hazards: Some stages feature environmental hazards that can damage fighters if they are knocked into them.

• Round Victory: Win a round by depleting your opponent's health bar through successful attacks.

• Match Victory: Win two out of three rounds to defeat your opponent and advance to the next challenger.

• Game Over: The game ends when you are defeated in a match. Your final score is displayed based on your performance.