The heart of the game is still player vs. player, and the presentation and game play are slick. The online play is, of course, better than waiting your turn at the arcade, and both the matchmaking system and play worked smoothly. And after getting humbled by a 12-year-old, there is no walk of shame out of the arcade. The DC heroes inject a lot of personality and fun, particularly Wonder Woman and Captain Marvel. But it is the fighting character of the Joker that is most brilliantly executed.

Graphics: The game delivers appropriate environments from both DC and MK universes, and each character is unique and dynamic. This is good eye candy.

Sound: Character voices and acting are good along with environmental sounds.

THE WRAP UP

Parent's take: The game, despite toning down the franchise, is based on one-on-one physical violence. There is blood and broken bones. The T for Teen rating should be applied with wisdom. Male and female physiques are greatly exaggerated.

Final word: A must-have for fans of the DC universe and a gentler version of the MK franchise that may bore the most hard-core fans but is a solid fighting game. Kings of button sequencing will still reign, while casual users can mash them fast and hope we get lucky.