Capcom’s Newest Anthology: A Tribute to Classic Fighting Games
Fans of fighting games had long considered the idea a dream, but Capcom made it a reality with the launch of the first Capcom Fighting Game Collection last autumn. This collection brought together remastered versions of several pivotal titles from the mid-to-late ’90s, including iconic games such as X-Men: Children of the Atom, Marvel Super Heroes, and particularly Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Now, anticipation is building for yet another anthology set to release soon — the Capcom Fighting Collection 2 — which boasts an impressive roster of fighters from the early 2000s. After an exclusive preview ahead of its release on May 16th, it’s evident that this new compilation pays homage to fighting game history while providing endless button-mashing fun.
A Sneak Peek at a Stellar Lineup
In my demo session, I was only able to try out three out of eight total titles (Capcom vs SNK 2: Mark of the Millenium 2001, Street Fighter Alpha 3 Upper and Project Justice), but here is the complete list featured in Capcom Fighting Collection 2:
- Capcom vs. SNK: Millennium Fight 2000 PRO
- Capcom vs SNK 2: Mark of the Millennium 2001
- Capcom Fighting Evolution
- Street Fighter Alpha 3 Upper
- Power Stone
- Power Stone 2
- Project Justice
- Plasma Sword: Nightmare of Bilstein
Diving Into Rich Gameplay Mechanics and Features
I readily acknowledge that my familiarity with SFA3U or Project Justice isn’t as extensive compared to other offerings in this collection; however, despite what may seem like outdated graphics today in Project Justice’s design choices lies a fascinating combat experience waiting to be rediscovered. Enhanced by diverse extras like vintage instruction manuals and move lists provided for context about each game’s development journey made grasping fundamental mechanics easier—and I find myself eager for more rounds.
The adaptation known as Street Fighter Alpha 3 Upper showcases a version previously exclusive outside Japan while also representing complete character availability—especially critical are six characters previously reserved just for specific home console editions. Importantly addressed within this modern remaster is an adjustment correcting an infamous glitch associated with V-ISM mechanics that compromised balance during gameplay—a significant factor hindering its popularity across Western audiences.
The Crown Jewel Unveiled: CvS2’s Timeless Appeal
The undeniable standout star among these offerings is undoubtedly Capcom vs SNK 2—often celebrated as one of gaming’s top ten fighting experiences ever crafted! Featuring nostalgic character selection screens adorned with neon diamond designs paired alongside memorable tunes accompanying stages set in New York City and London; it’s overflowing with unparalleled flair and character! If you play those tracks without tapping your foot or bobbing your head? It might be time for some self-reflection!
CvS produces refined implementations resulting from prior ratio systems along with innovative ISMs thanks mainly due introduction Groove gameplay allowing limitless strategies across varied fighters available! After only thirty minutes spent playing—I couldn’t suppress grinning every time landing custom combos using A-Groove Ken or catching AI off-guard utilizing four-ratio Haohmaru! The response mechanics felt razor-sharp; visuals pristine—as seamless functionally today’s tech trumps anything experienced over two decades ago!
Additions Enhance Gameplay Experience
A noteworthy inclusion not tested yet involves online multiplayer access featuring rollback netcode across all roster games—a robust improvement versus previous alternatives such as Fightcade known less reliable than dedicated matchmaking services (little hitches evidenced throughout promo footage). While I appreciate aesthetics enhancing visuals intended towards modern displays versus antiquated CRT screens—it would benefit players seeing clearer labels instead represented merely through Filter A,B,C nomenclature.
An Accessible Compilation Worth Embracing
By compiling these classic fighters under one roof makes accessing otherwise elusive gems like CvS significantly easier post-original release back during ’01—I’d personally invest $40 solely obtaining refreshed renditions Power Stone II plus retaining nostalgia tying them ultimately beholden via hardware settings long extinct now!
