Last year we saw Capcom deliver one of the most highly-acclaimed fighting series to the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3. Apparently, despite the game’s critical and commercial success, it wasn’t ‘super’ enough for Capcom, as they decided to release Super Street Fighter IV. But is this beefed-up brawler worth the a round or two?
We’re reviewing the extra content in the game, not necessarily the game itself; so instead of talking about the fundamentals of the original game (which we did in our Street Fighter IV review), we looking at the new features SSFIV has to offer, and more importantly, is it worth it? So the primary new addition to the game is that there are ten new characters. Many fans of the series will recognize some of these faces, as 8 fighters are from previous Street Fighter games, while the remaining two are brand new entries. Fan favourites T. Hawk and Dee Jay are now part of the roster, along with a bunch of other characters who add a lot more variation to the already diverse line-up.
As for the new characters, they are both rather unique and are definite contenders for your new favourite character. A new female fighter, Juri, is introduced. Juri’s move set is a combination of powerful sweeping kicks and short but effective punches. Certain time-manipulating special moves are available to Juri, as she is also equipped with an energy-boosting device in her one eye. Overall, Juri is a solid character, who’s quick and powerful kicks will give players a slight edge using her.
The second new character is Haken, a Turkish oil wrestler who moves slightly slower and lacks certain agility that may give other players a speed advantage. However, Haken has incredible strength and has the ability to cover himself in oil, allowing him to use slide attacks which prove difficult to dodge. Haken’s clinching throws and unpredictable moves make him a welcomed asset to the Street Fighter roster.
Along with the new characters (and their relatively forgettable stories) are a wealth of new Ultra Moves. There are now two Ultra Moves at each character’s disposal, with either one being chosen in the loadout screen during character selection. To compliment the new moves are brand spanking new costumes and outfits for each character. These alternate costumes provide a slight visual spark to the game which differentiates it from its predecessor; however the game in its entirety looks exactly the same.
As shown, the game does a good job at giving veteran Street Fighter fans a real piece of nostalgia. Thrown into the mix are also a few new levels as well as the much talked-about return of Bonus Stages. As in Street Fighter II, players will now be given the chance to beat up a car or take their anger out on some falling barrels in these sections, which give a nice break from the face-smashing action.
Super Street Fighter IV is an interesting game at that. There are even new game modes such as online team battles; however the ‘been-there-done-that’ feeling is present throughout the whole experience. While it’s still one of the best fighting games around, Super Street Fighter IV is meant for the hardcore fans of the series, and possibly newcomers who haven’t taken the plunge. The game itself is still excellent; however, we keep asking ourselves why the new additions weren’t sold as DLC parts.
[starreviewmulti id=2 tpl=20]
