While we initially gave a review for Soul Calibur IV a short while back, we were unable to review one of the games new and anticipated features, online multiplayer. As usual, we at Lazygamer do things slightly different, so with that in mind, we bring you the review of Soul Calibur IV's online component. We are also going to be looking at the game not only from an online perspective, but a South African online perspectice. So, Is it a step forward in the world of fighting games, or is it just a lag fest that South Africans can happily ignore.... While both the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions of the game have full online multiplayer, we had the chance to play it over Xbox Live, although we are not aware of any differences between the two.... If you haven't already brushed up on a few characters and their moves, I suggest you do so before jumping online. While button bashing and random acts of cheapness may help out a little, your friends will be beating you to a pulp consistently if you aren't clued up with at least a few characters.... The game doesn't run quite as perfect as the offline modes, so a little bit of time is needed to adjust your timing for blocks, counters and special moves.... Jumping straight into a game with friends is incredibly easy, the lobby puts you altogether, matches up the next two players and only requires that they press one button to get things going. From there you will be able to select your character but more importantly, any of the custom characters that you have created in the character builder. The game supports 4 players online, so two players will always be spectating with the one of them taking on the winner in the next match. The spectating is actually quite fun as you can watch your friends beat each other to a pulp as you support or harass the one that you want to win.... The human element adds a lot to the game though, being able to complain at someone when they beat you, mock them when you win (doesn't happen to me often so I wouldn't know...)... It really is a good laugh and becomes just as great as those memories of having a bunch of friends over at your place with a few drinks and some controller swapping.... Soul Calibur has been the first fighting game in years to spark up my interest again and with the great online multiplayer modes added into the mix I can suggest that even if you think you may be remotely interested in this game, you should check it out.