It's not too often to see a fighting game steal the spotlight for a system's launch, but that's exactly what Super Street Fighter IV 3D Edition does on Nintendo 3DS. Between keeping true to the original game and finding a way to become more accessible than ever, Super Street Fighter is not only one of the best 3DS games at launch, but one of the few fighting games I'd genuinely recommend to anyone. Just keep in mind some sacrifices had to be made to get this in portable form.
By and large, Super Street Fighter IV leaps to the Nintendo 3DS intact. All 35 fighters from the console versions have been brought over, including characters that were added later on. Variable costumes and colors are also included, giving players a very robust cast of characters from the start – don't expect to unlock anyone as you play. In terms of its core concept, Super Street Fighter is exactly what you'd expect – pick your character and face off against your opponent. You'll feel right at home whether you played a previous version of the game 20 years ago or 20 minutes ago. Quarter-circle forward, quarter-circle back, fireballs, spinning kicks and more - Capcom's juggernaut series is at once intimately familiar while still feeling fresh after being around for two decades.
The 3DS version captures that spirit reasonably well, but the gameplay is a bit different. Super Street Fighter IV uses six attack buttons – three punches and three kicks. The 3DS has six face buttons, but two are on the shoulders. Particularly since this is a portable, pressing the L and R buttons isn't always comfortable or convenient. Capcom has crafted an interesting solution, splitting the touch screen into four buttons, which are fully customizable through two concepts – Lite and Pro controls.
The Lite scheme allows you to use these buttons to execute full combos and special moves. Suddenly the more challenging attacks are a breeze, and the game will let you know when these maneuvers are available by highlighting them. Pro mode restricts you to simply assigning basic buttons or simultaneous button presses. The idea here is some players will still want the feel of a traditional Street Fighter experience, without special move shortcuts.
In my experience, Lite is the way to go. I realize these "quick execution" buttons do change the concept of a fighting game dramatically, but something more important is gained – accessibility. Despite not being familiar with many of these characters, I was able to pick up and play with relative ease. That pick-up-and-play concept is not only remarkable for an established franchise that thrives on complexity, it's also refreshing. I want to be able to play this game with any 3DS owner I know. Lite mode allows for that. And, honestly, if I really want the authentic experience, I can shut off the touch screen controls entirely or simply play on the console, which ultimately is the better hardcore fighting experience for a number of reasons.
View Full Review at IGN:
Super Street Fighter IV 3D Edition Review
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By and large, Super Street Fighter IV leaps to the Nintendo 3DS intact. All 35 fighters from the console versions have been brought over, including characters that were added later on. Variable costumes and colors are also included, giving players a very robust cast of characters from the start – don't expect to unlock anyone as you play. In terms of its core concept, Super Street Fighter is exactly what you'd expect – pick your character and face off against your opponent. You'll feel right at home whether you played a previous version of the game 20 years ago or 20 minutes ago. Quarter-circle forward, quarter-circle back, fireballs, spinning kicks and more - Capcom's juggernaut series is at once intimately familiar while still feeling fresh after being around for two decades.
The 3DS version captures that spirit reasonably well, but the gameplay is a bit different. Super Street Fighter IV uses six attack buttons – three punches and three kicks. The 3DS has six face buttons, but two are on the shoulders. Particularly since this is a portable, pressing the L and R buttons isn't always comfortable or convenient. Capcom has crafted an interesting solution, splitting the touch screen into four buttons, which are fully customizable through two concepts – Lite and Pro controls.
The Lite scheme allows you to use these buttons to execute full combos and special moves. Suddenly the more challenging attacks are a breeze, and the game will let you know when these maneuvers are available by highlighting them. Pro mode restricts you to simply assigning basic buttons or simultaneous button presses. The idea here is some players will still want the feel of a traditional Street Fighter experience, without special move shortcuts.
In my experience, Lite is the way to go. I realize these "quick execution" buttons do change the concept of a fighting game dramatically, but something more important is gained – accessibility. Despite not being familiar with many of these characters, I was able to pick up and play with relative ease. That pick-up-and-play concept is not only remarkable for an established franchise that thrives on complexity, it's also refreshing. I want to be able to play this game with any 3DS owner I know. Lite mode allows for that. And, honestly, if I really want the authentic experience, I can shut off the touch screen controls entirely or simply play on the console, which ultimately is the better hardcore fighting experience for a number of reasons.
View Full Review at IGN:
Super Street Fighter IV 3D Edition Review
To receive updates right into your inbox, please don't forget to subscribe:
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