New features include slow-motion moments and visible damage on the fighters during the course of the fight, while the sweat effects from Dead or Alive 5 return and are more pronounced.[4][5] Dead or Alive 6 also marks the first time for the series to have costume customization mode.[6][7] Contrary to some early reports, breast physics however are still part of the game, but can be user-adjusted just like the game's new blood and violence options.[8]
The game is supposed to be more accessible for newcomers.[9] New mechanics introduced are the Fatal Rush, a beginner-friendly mechanic where pressing one button multiple times results in the character performing a simple combo, and the Break Gauge, a meter that builds up as the characters attack. If the Gauge is full, a Fatal Rush will culminate in a move similar to what the Critical Blow in Dead or Alive 5 would do. There is a new mechanic named the Fatal Reversal, where the character reverses an opponent, stunning them, before appearing behind them, open for a counter.[10] The juggling ground-bounce system in this game is also being enhanced to extend juggle combos.