For those growing up in the 80’s and 90’s, there are a few video games that nearly everyone has heard of at least one point in time. Games like Sonic the Hedgehog, Super Mario World and The Legend of Zelda helped usher in this era’s love of video games and new technology. But only one title really set the standard for creating competitive spirit amongst fans in the video game realm: Street Fighter 2.
The series started out with its first title in 1987, but it wasn’t until 2 years later with the release of the second game that Street Fighter brand not only took off, but has never really come back down. Since the release of the second game, the series has firmly entrenched itself as a premier name in the video game industry.
On February 17th, the decade long wait for a brand new Street Fighter experience came to an end as the console edition of the game’s newest update officially saw the light of day on our side of the Pacific. Retail cost for the regular edition is $59.99 with a harder to find limited edition of the game, complete with soundtrack, an art book, action figure and anime, retailing for $79.99
Unlike the previous installment of the game which saw little to no promotion whatsoever within the United States. Capcom, the games’ developer, has learned from its mistakes.
While the game has been out for some time in Japan in the arcades, the developer felt in its best interest to avoid distribution in the U.S. The time would instead be spent developing massive amounts of hype around the console launch, starting with the game’s first U.S. commercial appearance during a live Mixed Martial Arts event in May of last year.
Since then, a barrage of advertisements has followed suit. Be it various video game websites or magazines, Capcom made sure to get the word out to not only fighting game enthusiasts but to even the most casual gamer with numerous television ads.
Game stores can be seen with various advertisements dressed in their store involving the brand new fighting game, offering promotional deals for those who wish to trade in their old games for credit towards Street Fighter 4. Not only a good way to lower boom on consumers’ wallets, allowing those who normally would be without to also enjoy on their PS3’s, PC’s or Xbox 360’s.
What are some differences from the previous title? Good question. The new age graphics and presentation are absolutely gorgeous if not spectacular, definitely a step above all other titles visually. The game has been described as art in motion – the animation found in the game is breathtaking and awe inspiring.
The soundtrack is well done, however the music during the menu is downright atrocious so expect to get in and get out as quick as possible. The addition of online game play is a welcome one; however as of writing there was not much competition to be found on network at least for the PS3.
The gameplay is what exactly what you’d expect from a new Street Fighter title, tight and as precise as you can get. The dynamics and fundamentals of the previous titles are very present here, meaning those who have played a game in the series will feel right at home.
Focus Attacks and Ultra Combos also make their first appearance in this game. For those new to the series, a command list for every character is made available in the game as well as a practice mode to gain experience.
The entire cast of the second game (which it chronologically follows) can be found along with new fighters Abel, Crimson Viper, Rufus and El Fuerte.
While the game features evil mainstay, M.Bison, there is a new boss character to reckon with. The console edition of the game also features 6 unlockable characters and 2 other hidden fighters.
Capcom, along with Co-Developer Dimps, have succeeded in creating a new Street Fighter experience, one that gamers the world over will fall in love with. With new stylish graphics and innovations, as well as the feel and character of previous titles, there’s something for everyone.
