Developer: Capcom
Publisher: Capcom, Taito, Capcom U.S.A., Inc.
Release date: June 2, 2023
Available on: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S (reviewed on the Xbox Series S)
When Street Fighter V launched, there was plenty of criticism for its barebones roster and modes. Such is not the issue with Street Fighter VI. The game is divided into three sections. The first is World Tour, which has an RPG type of progression system and where you can create your own character with the very robust creation mode. The second is Battle Hub, the game’s online space that offers both ranked and unranked matches. The third is Fighting Grounds, which has an excellent training mode, an arcade mode that offers a story line for the game’s 18 characters , and different fighting modes where you can take on a friend or a CPU oppoonent. The game is very newbie friendly, offering a new Modern control scheme that allows players to pull off moves with less button pushes. For veterans there is the more familiar control scheme that enables players to use their best stuff. A new Drive system, which involves filling a bar and then allows you to pull off a special offensive attack or, if your timing is good, you can defend yourself against an opponent’s attack. It’s the best the series has been, and is a must play for fighting game fans.
PROS
Great art style
Plenty of modes to choose from for single players
Online is solid, allowing for crossplay and ranked/unranked matches
Newbie friendly, yet challenging enough for returning veterans
Multiple control scheme options
New Drive system for powerful attacks
Robust character creator (created characters can be used in online matches)
18 character roster (6 new, 12 returning) at launch
Fun to play
CONS
World Tour storyline a bit weak
Dialogue not fully voiced
In all, Street Fighter 6 is the most newbie friendly entry to the series, as well as retaining a solid enough challenge for veteran players. The creation mode is excellent, the training modes well worth the time, and the game has plenty of content for both on- and off-line players. The cast of characters at launch is solid and offers plenty of variety for players to choose who can match their own play style. World Tour is a good 20 hour single player mode where players can learn other characters’ movesets. The choice of control scheme is a great decision, and online is bolstered by crossplay. It’s one of the best titles in the series, and also one of the best fighting games out there. A must play, and one of the best games to come out this year.
9.5/10 stars
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