By Michael Jordan


Capcom, 1-2 players, online multiplayer, $40.00, 3DS

The primordial need to punch each other in the face, and be victorious in doing so, best described in our love of fighting games. When you say fighting game, the first name in most minds is StreetFighter, but what does not come to mind is handheld, and to a further extent, 3D. How does Capcom’s new affair of the series hold up? Well let’s just say it doesn’t pull any punches, even in this deceivingly small package.

Super Streetfighter 4: 3D Edition or SSF43D, for the salvation of my fingers, is a title that can be judged agents its console counterparts with pride. Capcom really out did themselves, developing for a launch system, especially one that utilizes 3D while maintaining the precise contact need for this very technical fighter. The game looks great and really shows off what the next line of handhelds has in store for us.

With the stunning amount of 35 fighters with unique moves, combos and ultra moves, there is plenty of fighting to be had. In addition to having just its standard Arcade mode and Versus mode there is a 3D Versus that utilizes the dynamic fighting style, Internet Match which allows you to go online and beat up on your fellow fighters across the globe, Challenge mode where you will be given combos to complete, Training mode, and my personal favorite Figure Collection which I will get to in a minute.

Internet matches are outstanding, and can be judged not only on its merits for being on a handheld, but is one of the better experiences I have had with fighters online, in general. Lag is virtually non-existent, and fighting feels balances, with almost every match I have come across being vastly different and enjoyable. With a simple ranking system that is divided in your character battle points, which shows how much you use that character, and Player points, which goes up and down depending on your wins and losses. You will also be gaining customizable titles and icons for your online matches, throughout the game giving a little bit of a customizable feel. Some people might complain that there is no tournament mode, but I feel that mode is ridicules as is, and to me is neither missed nor wanted in my portable gaming experience.

Challenge mode and Figure Collection modes are well thought out and beautiful extras. Challenge mode is quite simple but gives a break from the total competitiveness of the game, giving a more thought provoking challenge to users seeking that. Figure Collection mode is a unique feature that utilizes the 3DS Streetpass, and feels exiting to see if you have found and beaten anyone while you walk around doing your daily routine, and is totally optional if you’re in an area that is not exactly swarmed with people with the latest tech.

The control layout feels comfortable, but almost makes you wish you could hook up a control stick to the system, as it is such a full experience. The touch screen feels natural to use when you’re in a pinch, and can make the fights more intense, leaving all players able to perform ultra-combos and moves, making players focus on blocks, throws, and ex hits. I find this to be a good mix, leaving my battles feeling more epic then the majority of console fighters.

So what’s the verdict?

9.5/10
This is not only a must have launch title, but shows its console counterparts a run for there money. It looks great and is packet to the gills with content for the everyday to off and on player to enjoy. If you have not bought it yet, get your ass to the store and BUY IT now!

Tags: 3DS, Capcom, Streetfighter

This entry was posted on Thursday, March 31st, 2011 at 10:40 pm and is filed under Games, Nintendo DS. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.