Step into the ring and take a tour of the most iconic and visually stunning fighting arenas in Street Fighter 6. From neon-lit streets to ancient temples, these battlegrounds are as diverse as the characters who fight in them. With over 16 stages, join us as we explore the best arenas in Street Fighter 6 that will have you feeling like a true champion

7. Old Town Market

Sulval’hal Arena and Old Town Market resonate as they are both situated in the imaginary regions of Nepal and Bhutan. As expected, the Old Town Market is a bustling arena where people actively participate in buying and selling various products.

Moreover, the Old Town Market is a lively place where vendors can be seen chasing after monkeys who try to grab their fruits. The vibrant colors of the stones and bricks add to the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the place. The engaging environment of the Old Town Market makes it a memorable arena where you would want to spend your time.

6. Suval’hal Arena

Suval'hal Arena is JP's stage in the game, and while it has great potential, it falls short of making it to the top five due to some minor things. Despite its minor errors, Suval'hal Arena offers some fantastic combinations that make combat engaging and rewarding. These combinations can result in some fun and mesmerizing gameplay that is sure to keep you entertained.

Over the arena and the tower in the distance, several enormous red and blue streamers cover the playing area, making this one of the most unique arenas in the game.

5. Dhalsimer Temple

The Dhalsimer Temple brings a sense of calm and relaxation to the game. As you play, the stage exudes spiritual reverence that beckons you with ancient mystique. Towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation surround the sacred grounds. There is a massive gold statue of Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, in the background, with praying monks. 

Apart from the spiritually intricate background, several elephants are standing and lying around the temple. In the Indian and Hindu religions, animals are considered sacred. As such, it adds to the awe-inspiring cultural vibe in the arena. Indeed, Dhalsimer Temple represents a portal to a bygone era, which resonates well with the lore of the Street Fighter universe.

4. Fête Foraine

The Fête Foraine brings on the sense of a pop-up amusement park in France. The game includes some of the best visuals in the genre. It represents a traveling amusement park with several attractions. The stage also has several food stands on it. There is also the presence of a merry-go-round which spins spectacularly and is very popular.

The stage stands tall with the Eiffel Tower in the background, and the attraction of the amusement park in front of it makes the arena one of the most exciting stages in the game. As you play the game, it draws onlookers and those enjoying their night out. The lighting, color, and overall vibe of the stage make it one of the most memorable and best. 

3. Genbu Temple

The Genbu Temple arena is Ryu's stage in Street Fighter 6, and it represents a temple that stands quietly in the deep mountains. The temple is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including cherry blossoms, Torii Gates, and calming waters that attract various wildlife. Located in an isolated part of Japan, this temple is a remarkable stage that offers an unforgettable fighting environment.  

In the background, there are some diluted colors found on the mountains and the rocks, surrounding the red temple. With such colors fading, Torri Gates and the pink cherry blossoms pop much more, making the stage irresistible to take on a fight on. You resonate with the area, as most fighters visit the temple in search of a meditation spot. 

2. Thunderfoot Settlement

Thunderfoot Settlement represents Lily's stage in Street Fighter 6, which acts as a reserve for the Thunderfoot Tribe in Mexico. It is essential to know that the tribe comprises people who are music enthusiasts by nature. The stage showcases music, color coordination, and vastly exciting sensations.

In the background, a combination of intricate colors and a huge number of settlements signify a populous area. However, not many people are usually around to watch the game. The arena does not bring out the representation of Mexico and its tribes as it does with other arenas like Dhalsimer Temple. However, the entire execution of the arena makes it a good choice for you to fight. As you fight, the Tribe's elder, Singing Wolf, watches from afar. 

1. Tian Hong Yuan

Tian Hong Yuan Chun-Li's stage tops our list of the best arenas in Street Fighter 6. The arena is based on China's breathtaking Yu Garden temple. The arena is a serene and visually stunning area, exuding tranquility with its beautifully manicured landscapes, intricate architecture, and tranquil ambiance. In the beta stage, it was still the best stage, with the best colors, sights, and sounds you could ever wish for in a fighting game.

As you play on this stage, you are surrounded by vibrant cherry blossoms, ornate pagodas, and flowing streams. The developers have also ensured exceptional attention to detail, and the interplay of light and shadow enhances the overall atmosphere. It generally brings a sense of harmony to the intense battles that are taking place. As a fighter, you will find some solace in the arena, preparing you for the intensity of fights. The arena is remarkable in every way, which makes it our number-one pick and the best stage in the game. 

So, what's your take on our picks for the Best Arenas in Street Fighter 6? Which is your favorite arena? Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.

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Capcom has hardly had time to catch their breath this year with the release of Resident Evil 4 Remake and now, Street Fighter 6. Street Fighter 5 didn’t do so well, even as players got more acquainted with the game. So, it’s high time Street Fighter 6 made its way to fans. And so far, so good. Street Fighter 6 is peeking at Steam sales and general gamers’ community threads. It’s the talk of the town at the moment, showing early positive signs of skyrocketing the Street Fighter franchise back to its top-place spot among the greats. 

Much of the high praise is attributed to the changes Street Fighter 6 makes to the franchise, to the extent that it seems like an entirely new series. As always, new characters are present. But also mega changes in gameplay and development can be seen. If you’re considering taking Street Fighter 6 out for a spin, the question of whether the game surpasses its predecessor has probably crossed your mind. Is it a better sequel? What features does it have? Should I buy it or stick to playing Street Fighter 5? Let’s unpack all of these questions.

What is Street Fighter 6?

Street Fighter 6 is the newest fighting game in the long-running Street Fighter franchise. It’s the seventh main entry that was released worldwide on June 2nd, 2023, for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S platforms. Later in the year, Taito will publish an arcade version of the game.

While previous entries retained the basics of the franchise, Street Fighter 6 plays like a new game intended to represent the next evolution of the series. It does so by changing the combat system the series has been using over the years. Further, there are new additions like the all-new World Tour mode, which is a semi open world RPG adventure. As with previous entries before it, Street Fighter 6 also makes changes to the character roster and graphics, all of which add up to a fresh take on the franchise as a whole.

What is Street Fighter 5?

Street Fighter 5, on the other hand, is the fifth main entry in the Street Fighter franchise. It was released in 2016 for the PlayStation 4 and PC platforms. As well as an arcade version released exclusively in Japan in 2019.

Similar to Street Fighter 6, Street Fighter 5 also features intense head-to-head battles. Players choose from 16 iconic characters. Each fighter has a backstory that influences their personality and fighting styles. 

Street Fighter 5 launch didn’t go so well, and from then on, the momentum kept going down. So, it’s definitely a treat to finally receive Street Fighter 6 with a few interesting tricks up its sleeve.

Gameplay

The gameplay between Street Fighter 6 and Street Fighter 5 differs completely. Sure, the core fighting mechanics remain the same. However, there are quite a number of buffs that elevate the experience in the former so much more. 

Drive Gauge vs V-Gauge

Firstly, you can spot right off the bat the new Drive Gauge system in Street Fighter 6 that wasn’t present in the predecessor. Instead, Street Fighter 5 used a system called V-Gauge. The Drive Gauge is like a meter system that tracks each character’s fuel consumption during fights. The more charged the gauge is, the more access you have to a wealth of offensive, defensive, and movement techniques unique to each fighter. However, if the meter runs out, you go into “Burnout” mode, which means that your opponent stuns and takes out attacks on you without the power to defend yourself. 

V-Gauge, on the other hand, allowed players to access V-Skills like landing a crush counter, removing any stun you have, or activating a special move. In comparison, the drive gauge system feels more in-depth. It’s a more eccentric way to up the ante, and certainly one of the systems fans are most excited about.

Extreme Battle

I’m pretty sure you have noticed some new fun gimmicks in Street Fighter 6. Like a bull suddenly rampaging into the arena, giant balls thrown into the battlefield, electric coils dropping from the sky, and so on. These can most definitely affect a match, where a bull could run through you, opening you up to attacks. Or, you can kick the balls at your opponent to deal extra damage. Street Fighter 5, does not have anything of the sort.

Character Roster 

Street Fighter 6 launches with 18 characters you can choose from, while Street Fighter 5 had 16, total. Out of the 18 in the former, 12 are returning characters from precious titles, while 6 are completely brand new. Further, DLC content adds four new characters to the list. In comparison, out of the 16 characters in Street Fighter 5, 12 were returning characters, while 4 were completely new. Further, DLC content added six new characters to the list. 

Interestingly, none of the four new characters added in Street Fighter 5 made it to the sequel. On the other hand, Street Fighter 6’s new additions spike more fun, including a prodigy, a graffiti artist, a French supermodel, and a judoka champion, among others.

Graphics

Placing Street Fighter 5 and Street Fighter 6 side-by-side, you can notice subtle differences in the graphics. Both adopt the same aesthetic. However, Street Fighter looks more vibrant, with colorful special effects and plenty of graffiti. It’s nearly like a realistic work of art while still remaining faithful to its arcade beginnings.

Storyline

The talk of the town also has the spice of the World Tour sprinkled on it. This all-new semi open world adventure adds a new experience for single players. You can freely explore a variety of street locations worldwide as the custom character you choose, engaging in impromptu battles and training under masters Ryu and Chun-Li. 

Street Fighter 5’s story campaign took the individual character stories’ route. It didn’t completely stink. But it wasn’t so great, either.

Verdict: Street Fighter 5 Vs Street Fighter 6

As it is marketed, Street Fighter 6 truly represents a new era and evolution of the Street Fighter franchise. Plenty of new additions, some expected and others a complete surprise to fans, elevate the experience to another level. Street Fighter 5 played it safe. But Campcom took that and decided to overhaul much of the traditional way of doing things. And for that, we remain ever more grateful.

So, what's your take on Street Fighter 5 vs Street Fighter 6? Which is your favorite of the two? Let us know over our socials here or in the comments below.

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Which of the 18 fighters in Street Fighter 6 is the best? Choosing a favorite fighter can be difficult if you're just getting started. Veterans may also be perplexed by the new control mechanics introduced in Street Fighter 6. Further, each fighter has unique abilities. So, deciding which fighter to use has the potential to make or break a match. We evaluated each character's special combos, damage strength, ease of use, and other factors to determine the best fighters in Street Fighters 6. Among all others, these characters rank higher than the rest.

5. Kimberly

Meet Kimberly, a bright and charismatic African-American girl with long black braids adorned with stylish blue tips. Her backstory is just as intriguing as she is. As a true prodigy, she graduated from college earlier than most.  Then, decided to become a spunky new ninja. Her style is hard to miss, oozing from 1980s pop culture. In her spare time, you’ll probably find her spraying graffiti.

One of Kimberly's greatest strengths is her unpredictability. It's always hard to anticipate her next move, making her a force to be reckoned with. Kimberly's unique blend of martial arts allows her to switch between lightning-fast movements and slow, calculated maneuvers with ease. Her agility and skill are always on full display. Generally, she’ll combine elbow drops, and upward spinning kicks that pop enemies into the air before landing a devastating Nue Twister, among other special moves. Learning these is pretty easy. However, she does have a significantly low hit-to-damage ratio that can possibly cause problems winning later on.

Since Kimberly is a new face in Street Fighter 6, you may want to take her out for a spin to see whether she matches your playstyle. If you’re a veteran familiar with Maki, Zeku, or Guy, you should have an easier time given they’re all graduates from the Bushinryu school of ninjutsu and all use a similar fighting style.

4. Zangief

Otherwise called the Red Cyclone, Zangief is a humongous fighter, weighing 400 pounds and standing over 7 feet tall. Going up against Zangief is a gamble with life. He’s pretty much hands-on and committed to physical improvement.

Gamers who choose Zangief often want to pull off his famous whirlwind move. Zangief can essentially spin and create a whirlwind that draws opponents closer to him. Also, he can wrap his arms around opponents, lift them into the air, and throw them onto the floor, popularly known as the grapple move. However, he tends to have an alarmingly slow response that can affect the outcome of a match.

Generally, if you want a male version of Manon, Zangief is the way to go. They’re both heavy hitters who excel at sucker punches and intimidating opponents into submission.

3. Marisa

Proud warrior of the Colosseo. Heavy-weight muscular champion. A whopping 6’8″ tall Spartan descendant. Marisa is all heavy punches and no apologies. She stands tall above nearly every fighter present. Definitely the type of fighter to want to be all in your face. Interesting backstory, Marisa would design jewelry in Italy as a child before becoming the no-nonsense woman she is today.

Marisa’s greatest strength is her extremely high hit-to-damage ratio. One sucker punch will send your opponent spiraling. It makes it easy to use her during fights because all you need to do is focus on landing those devastating heavy attacks at close range. What’s more? Marisa has armor to protect her from incoming attacks.

Marisa is also a newcomer to Street Fighter 6. So, veterans and beginners alike should have a blast exploring all she has to offer. She’s the type of fighter to go for if you want an aggressive show-off that captures the eyes of most.

2. Manon

Manon is like a swan, strutting the hallways of battle with pride. She’s a French model and idealist in the pursuit of beauty. But let that not fool you. When she’s in the ring, she doesn’t come to play. 

Her fast, ballet-like kicks quickly pick up speed in a match. She powers up by using judo throws at close range that opponents will find hard to block. Best of all, she lures opponents in for the kill using long-reaching attacks and power-grabbing them for a graceful finish.

On the downside, Manon tends to start slow. However, if you master enough stamina, you can gradually power up her attacks and skyrocket Manon’s hit-to-damage ratio to irreparable damage.

1. Guile

At the top of the list of the best fighters in Street Fighter 6 is Guile. He’s an Air Force major and family man who specializes in martial arts and professional wrestling. The good thing about Guile is that he’s no stranger to the game. So, veterans will have an easy time having Guile in their corner. Newcomers, on the other hand, may take a little longer to master Guile’s moves. Once done, though, you can start to use Guile to quickly climb the ranks against other players.

As always, Guile’s strategy is to unleash consecutive attacks on opponents. Especially when you time an opening, that’s when you consistently deal combos to achieve the highest damage. Guile’s strengths lie in dealing devastating surprise attacks that opponents won’t see coming. Plus, he has no problem taking the fight to others by pinning opponents into a corner using his Super Arts. In turn, Guile has put up robust defenses. 

While most fighters will rely on one or two special attacks, Guile has a variety of moves working for him. He can counter nearly every other opponent’s attack, which makes it difficult to come up with a strategy against him. The only thing with Guile is that you need to string powerful sonic attacks together to win the match in a super match. As well as perfectly timing the attacks. In fact, there’s a “Perfect” mechanic that powers up your moves the more you’re able to time attacks correctly. So, as long as you can precisely time counter-attacks, you’ll be good to go.

So, what’s your take? Do you agree with our best fighters in Street Fighters 6? Are there more fighters we should know about? Let us know over on our socials here.

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Over the years, Street Fighter has maintained its spot among the best fighting games. Veteran players have likely mastered the core mechanics. However, Street Fighter 6 adds new mechanics that you’re likely going to need some time to master. Newcomers, on the other hand, may have a rough start, as with any other fighting game. 

Granted, Street Fighter 6 uses some unfamiliar control mechanics. It follows a different pattern from what you may be used to in other fighting games like Mortal Kombat, where you often start light, then heavy, then finish with a special combo. The R1 and R2 buttons in Street Fighter 6 will no doubt give you a head-scratcher. 

To give you a head start in Street Fighter 6 in time to show your prowess to other players, we’ve compiled Street Fighter 6: Best Tips for Beginners. These tips will help you get a smooth landing and learn the basics of Street Fighter 6 ahead of the competition.

5. Controls Are Different From Other Fighting Games Like Mortal Kombat and Injustice

You would think that fighting games would adopt a relatively similar control system across the board. But, no. Street Fighter is its own kind of party, different from other fighting games you may have played before. Specifically, the way that fighting games often start easy with light attacks. Then, increase in strength to medium, sometimes heavy attacks. And then, the final showdown to execute a character’s special combo.

Street Fighter, on the other hand, uses a “Modern Control” style. Thankfully, too, because the previous six-button system was rather complicated. Of course, you can still go the six-attack route. But the new mechanic is much simpler. Essentially, there are three effects you can use: damage, range, and vulnerability. When attacking an opponent, it consecutively increases in strength. More strength leads to increased range. However, the longer your range, the more your vulnerability goes up. A little tricky? Don’t worry, it gets easier with time.

Another note to consider is the difference in speed. When using light attacks, you tend to execute them faster but with a smaller range. However, heavy attacks will execute slower but with a more extensive range. This is nearly similar to most fighting games, so it should be easier to get the hang of.

4. The Drive Gauge, Explained

The Drive Gauge is new in Street Fighter 6, so let’s take a look at what it means. Each character has a drive gauge that features different offensive and defensive techniques. There are six blocks for each gauge. Once you use a technique, it drains a different charge amount from the gauge.  

For instance, the “Drive Impact” technique will cost one block. “Drive Reversal” will cost two blocks, and so on. Before you can master your skills or even learn the combos, you need to learn how to utilize your drive gauge to its maximum. Since each technique is different, learn when to make the most of it. You can use Drive Impact to break down an opponent’s defense, for example. Or, use Drive Parry to deflect incoming attacks. 

Just remember that although the drive gauge replenishes itself, it’s still a finite resource that can run out when overused. Just like in special movies, you want to strategize when to unleash a drive gauge technique. But also, try to avoid making it a wasted opportunity to knock out your opponent.

3. Each Character is Different, Explore Them All

Building upon the drive gauge, each character in Street Fighter 6 is different. Not just in appearance, but each of the 18 playable characters has a different set of skills. While you can pick your favorite and focus all your attention on them, it’s better to explore all the characters to find out which character suits your playstyle the most.

A great way to experiment is in multiplayer mode. However, Street Fighter 6 already has a special place curated for experimenting in training mode. Here, you can fight against an AI as many times as you’d like. Or, you can check out the Arcade mode if you’d like something more interesting. 

Additionally, make sure to peruse the Character Guide mode for a quick read-through of each character’s abilities. You can start with whoever you like, even if it’s based on their appearance. Then slowly work your way up the ladder, learning each character’s moves, playstyle, and behavior. At an early stage, there’s no harm in ditching anyone who doesn’t work for you. Finally, narrow down the ones you like until you find the character that best matches your taste.

2. Watch Out for Burnout

At some point, you’ll experience burnout. It can happen because you were blocking an opponent so much that they pushed you into a corner. Or, that you overuse your drive mechanics enough to deplete your drive gauge. Sure, it self-charges, but it’s still a finite resource you need to use strategically. Once you deplete it, burnout happens.

As the name suggests, burnout is a weakened state where your punches don’t do much harm. The same goes for your defense. An opponent will easily stun you during burnout. As a result, you can easily lose a match. So, make sure to diversify your moves and use the drive gauge strategically to avoid burnout.

1. Training Mode Saves Lives

Training mode can feel like a waste of time. However, the opposite is true. It’s advisable to constantly return to training mode to hone your skills. It’s the one place that gives you grace to effectively learn how to use controls. You stretch the limits of characters, experimenting with different techniques, and learning which ones bear the most fruit.

You don’t have to stick to the manual, either. Rather, feel free to customize it to your will. Perhaps you want to perfect a certain defense strategy. Then, create a fight where your opponent aggressively unleashes attacks on you. You can even make it specific to aerial attacks. It just never hurts to try.

So, what’s your take? Do you agree with our Street Fighter 6: best tips for beginners? Are there more tips we should know about? Let us know over on our socials here.

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Capcom has teamed up with hardware brand Higround to produce a line of Street Fighter-themed keyboards, which are set to be released in the coming months. The keyboards will feature unique artwork from Capcom and will be based on some of the most iconic characters from the Street Fighter franchise.

The announcement of the keyboard collection comes just ahead of the release of Street Fighter 6. This move is aimed at generating more excitement among the franchise’s fans, who have been eagerly awaiting the release of the latest installment.

Introducing @higround x Street Fighter. A capsule made to celebrate our dedicated fans.

Limited pre-order available Wednesday 12PM PT. See the full capsule at https://t.co/rwMt3CLX0X pic.twitter.com/m0DmQvNdLB

— Street Fighter (@StreetFighter) April 17, 2023

According to the announcement, the Street Fighter keyboard collection will include five different designs. Additionally, the collection will include three mousepads, a keycap set, a jelly bag, and a t-shirt. Each of the mousepads will include well-known artwork from the early days of Street Fighter. The mouse pad options include the same Ryu and Chun-Li artwork that appears on one of the keyboards. The other option is Guile's stage from Street Fighter 2, a replica of the “Presented by Capcom” screen that appears after beating SSF2T. 

Fans will be able to pre-order the products from Higround's website starting on April 19, 2023, and continuing until April 24. Capcom has yet to reveal the prices for the keyboards. However, fans can expect to pay between $145 and $300, which is the typical pricing for Higround's themed keyboards.

The brand is well-known for producing capsule collections for a variety of anime series. Higround has previously worked with SEGA to produce a collection of products based on the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. Higround's site also advises fans to sign up for email reminders about the Street Fighter collection, as demand is expected to be high.

Street Fighter 6 Release Dates

Street Fighter 6 will launch on June 2, 2023, for PC, PS5, PS4, and Xbox Series X|S.

What is your take? Are looking forward to getting one of the Street Fighter keyboards? Will you grab one? Let us know on our socials here or in the comments below. 

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Street Fighter V is alive and kicking once again in Capcom Cup IX, one of Esports' most prestigious tournaments in the world. Here's everything you need to know about it.

What Is Capcom Cup IX?

Capcom Cup IX is an annual tournament based around Street Fighter V, an arcade brawler in which players battle it out over a series of 1v1 bouts. Spread over five days, 47 combatants thrash it out for a place in the highest bracket and, in turn, the Top 16, which culminates in a final showdown after the remaining players have been eliminated.

• All 47 qualifying players are divided into 8 groups.
• Each player plays a three-round match in a single round-robin format.
• Once the top two players in each group win their matches, all remaining players are eliminated.
• During the final bracket, players compete in five-round sessions — double-elimination rules apply.

Schedule

Between February 14th and 19th, Capcom Cup IX will host a total of six day-long sessions: three Group Stage Eliminations, two Championships, and a final Top 16. Here's what you can expect to see over the six days:

Prize Pool

The prize pool this year is set at $300,000. This figure is divided between all competing players, with the overall winner walking away with a grand total of $120,000, and the remaining players taking a smaller share (the minimum payout being $1,500). The exact payouts for the top players are as follows:

Where to Watch Capcom Cup IX

You can stream all the fights over on Twitch or YouTube. Alternatively, you can attend the Championships and Top 16 final at AVALON Hollywood, 1735 Vine St. Hollywood, CA 90028 on February 19th by purchasing tickets here.

If, by chance, you're seeking more information on all things Capcom Cup IX, then be sure to check in with the official social feed here.

So, what's your take? Will you tuning in to watch Capcom Cup IX? Is there any player in particular you're rooting for? Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.

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Quick light query: Are you a fan of fighting games? If you are, which is your favorite fighting game? I bet there is a sizeable bunch whose candlelight for King of Fighters still burns bright. Others may be holding fast to their love for Street Fighter, while others may, no less, gravitate towards the more brutal Mortal Kombat foray. Regardless of which fighting game you prefer, it’s no secret that the King of Fighters franchise is a respectable trade marker in its own right.

Developed by SNK, King of Fighters is one of its many pet projects that has for a long time held its ground. Not even SNK’s bankruptcy could slow the series down. Since it's first ever release in 1994, King of Fighters has continued to revamp its mechanics, character rosters, visuals, and more to fully satisfy the needs of its loyal following. Now, there are at least 14 sequels and plenty more spinoffs. Today, we want to take a quick walk down memory lane and rank the five best King of Fighters games of all time. Which one is your favorite?

5. King of Fighters ‘97

One of the most popularly played arcade games was King of Fighters ‘97. Particularly because it improved on its predecessors’ roster list and gameplay. Orochi Iori and Orochi Leona were among the newly introduced characters you could play, with the updated visuals and moves revamping the game further.

A new “Advanced” and “Extra” mode were introduced, with each one elevating their similar counterparts from ‘96 and ‘94’s gameplay, respectively. To top it off, King of Fighters ‘97 wrapped up the Orochi saga nicely. Characters Kyo, Iori, and Chizuru took center stage to bring down the enemy, all while taking part in the usual King of Fighters head-to-head battles.

The only thing that places it in the fifth spot among the five best King of Fighters games of all time is the sometimes void-of-music rounds that came out bland and the gameplay that fell slightly short.

4. King of Fighters XI

King of Fighters XI is the second chapter of “Tales of Ash.” Among its most memorable highlights are the new mechanics that introduced a new numbering system, the option to switch out characters mid-fight, and the overall updates to the characters, stages, and soundtrack of its predecessor.

This 2003 2D fighting game packed lots of fun times, with its fast and complex battles. Over the years, the franchise would refine and tweak the gameplay and characters. By King of Fighters XI, the gameplay was faster and smoother than ever before. The graphics could have used a little more love, though. No doubt the gaming era plays a part in its lacklusterness.

3. King of Fighters XIII

King of Fighters XIII serves as the finale to the Ash Crimson saga. It’s also what wrapped up the sprite-based era with finesse deserving of the franchise. The whole beautiful animated style is definitely missed, especially with the splash of detail and fluidity King of Fighters XIII adds to the series. In addition, the return of fan-favorite Mai Shiranui after being solely missed for several previous entries completely kicked the ball out of the park for this one. 

King of Fighters XIII takes away everything that failed before. In its place, it brings new gameplay additions to the series. For instance, the EX mode allowed players to amplify their abilities further. Also, both the casual and competitive gameplay is said to be one of the most awesome-playable ones to date.

2. King of Fighters XIV

Perhaps it’s the greatness of King of Fighters XIII that made certain King of Fighters XIV is to be remembered. Building off of an already well-performing game has its perks. But it’s also the supporting modern-age technology that fully amplified the true power of three-dimensional models and backgrounds. 

King of Fighters XIV maintains its fast-paced combat and adds new features, characters, and mechanics, marrying the best aspects of the series with up-to-date technology. Together, King of Fighters XIV paved the way for a new era of the franchise, which is still going on today.

Compared to other 3D fighting franchises, King of Fighters XV may fall slightly short. However, the game still performs relatively well, enough to warrant the continuation of the franchise with the latest 2022 game. Even without the move to 3D, King of Fighters XV still boasts one of the most memorable character additions of all time.

1. King of Fighters ‘98

If you ask any King of Fighters fan to name their best King of Fighters game of all time, they’ll most likely say it’s King of Fighters ‘98. That’s because every franchise owes its flourishing success to its roots. And for King of Fighters, King of Fighters ‘98 is where things really started to get moving.

King of Fighters ‘98 is highly rated, even across all fighting games. It features the Advanced and Extra gameplay modes, with virtually every character available to play (including the ones who actually died). The character sprites were at their best, exuding the flair that the animations from back in the day possessed. Add to that the perfectly designed Orochi saga that added meat to the bone of fighting games, and you had yourself a last title. 

While most of the titles on this list excelled based on the tried and tested theories of their predecessors, King of Fighters ‘98 still stands on its own two feet. Consequently, many King of Fighters games would always be critiqued based on how they compared to it. King of Fighters ‘98 created a “dream match” system where players had overwhelming freedom to mix and match teams. It chose a minimalistic approach and perfected each detail to the core, utilizing the essence of “less is more” or something close to it.

So, what’s your take? Do you agree with our five best King of Fighters games of all time, ranked? Are there more games we should know about? Do let us know down in the comments or over on our socials here.

The post 5 Best King of Fighters Games of All Time, Ranked appeared first on Gaming.net.

It's official, the beloved fighting and arcade game Street Fighter is coming to consoles. The sequel to the 2016 Street Fighter 5, Street Fighter 6, returns with a revamp of its old characters, an amped art style, and a fresh lineup of new characters. Early in the year, Capcom shared a short, exciting trailer that sharpened our desire for the upcoming release. Bursting rays of color and immersive action are how we can describe it best. Aside from that, we can expect an overabundance of aggressive knockouts.

The Street Fighter franchise is Capcom's forerunner and the highest-grossing fighting game. It's no surprise here since the game achieves more than any other fighting game desires to. Are you interested in learning more about the upcoming title? Well, sit back as we delve into the details that have reached our grapevine.

What is Street Fighter 6?

Street Fighter 6 is the upcoming sixth outstanding entry in the Street Fighter franchise by Capcom. The game will be available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows. The Taito Corporation will oversee an exclusive launch of the arcade version in Japan in 2023. 

With the franchise releasing tons of trailers this year, it is only fitting to assume its launch will take place early next year. We speculate the release may happen on March 31st, 2023, during the EVO Japan Tournament. 

Story

Although Street Fighter 5 was criticized for its dull and lengthy story mode, Capcom revamped the tale with the release of Street Fighter V: Arcade Edition. We can only anticipate a further compelling story with Street Fighter 6. 

As with all other titles, the game's plot centers on playing as either Ryu or Ken. However, in the sixth installment, Ken Master's story gets a dramatic shift, which gives us the impression the previous titles downplayed his role. 

After making his debut in the original Street Fighter, Ken Master's narrative progressed with every new title release. From taking on Sean Matsuda as his new protege to winning several championships for the United States and becoming a father. His coming-of-age story featured a bunch of emotional and triumphant twists and turns. 

In Street Fighter 6, it gets more intense. We see Ken Masters attempt to rebuild his reputation after being accused of engaging in a criminal endeavor. This forces him to relinquish all he has, including his family and his executive role at his Masters Foundation. While placing Ken in the limelight may seem rushed, the game's predecessor DLC sheds more light on the turn of events in Street Fighter 6. Moreover, to help piece the events together, two characters from the Street Fighter V DLC make a return in the upcoming title. 

Gameplay

The game will feature three modes; World Tour, Fighting Ground, and Battle Hub. In addition, Capcom is introducing a fresh battle system mechanic known as Drive Gauge. The system is meant to inspire players' creativity with five techniques that will boost your offense or defense. The drive's mechanics are based on the franchise's existing mechanics, including focus attack, parry, or rush. From the horse's mouth (Capcom), “the Drive Impact will help players launch a powerful strike that absorbs an incoming attack, leading to a wall splat.”

Moreover, the game introduces two control schemes; classic and modern. While the former is a six-button layout witnessed in previous titles, the latter improves a player's accessibility. You can launch special moves using a single button that combines directional input. 

Also, multiple super combos will feature in Street Fighter 6. However, as you may know, this only applies to players at certain levels. 

Trailers

Capcom has been generous with giving fans a glimpse of the upcoming game. In September, the developer launched a trailer for its “World Tour Opening Movie,” dubbed “The Meaning of Strength.” The trailer gives a glimpse of the full roster of characters and an exciting, subtle glimpse of what Street Fighter 6 will center on. You can check it out below:

Moreover, the game's official announcement trailer during the State of Play in June 2022 introduced the upcoming title and gave fans a first look at the characters. The trailer also showcased Capcom's new art style and introduced a new character, Jamie. 

The pre-order trailer debuted during The Game Awards 2022 and revealed an exciting line of new characters, with some old ones also making a comeback. You can view it below.

Additionally, during the Summer Game Fest, Capcom showcased the return of Guile. The trailer depicts the all-American World Warrior having a revamped look and a seamless integration of his V-Trigger skillset. The trailer also showcases some of his legendary moves, including the flash kick and sonic boom. 

The Summer Game Fest also gave more insight into the game's FGC gameplay. The 25-minute playable video gives a detailed look into the Drive Impact Mechanics. You can view it below:

Moreover, Capcom also released a real-time commentary trailer for the upcoming game. The trailer made its debut during Sony's State of Play showcase.

Furthermore, Capcom released a pre-order trailer during The Game Awards 2022. The trailer reveals the game's launch date alongside a lineup of new characters. The trailer showcases Dee Jay making a comeback with fresh faces, Manon, JP, and Marisa, featuring in the upcoming title. 

Street Fighter 6 Release Date, Platforms & Editions

Street Fighter 6 will launch on June 2, 2023, for PS4, PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S. Capcom made the official announcement during the Game Awards 2022. For fans of the franchise, the new lineup of fighters and the amplified fighting mechanics will definitely drive their eagerness to heightened levels. 

Lastly, Capcom doesn't shy away from giving fans a glimpse into the upcoming title. As your avid grapevine gaming site, we'll update you with any additional details as soon as they hit the ground. Also, you can follow our official social feed here for timely updates.

So, what's your take? Will you be picking up a copy of Street Fighter 6? Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.

The post Street Fighter 6: Everything We Know appeared first on Gaming.net.

Platformers have been gracing us with competitive fighting games for decades, from Street Fighter to Super Smash Bros. and now MultiVersus. While Super Smash Bros. has long dominated the scene, it's exciting to see newer contenders emerge that bring something new to the table. It's only recently that MultiVersus has challenged the popular Nintendo series, but did you know there are plenty of other games worth your time? Today, we'll look at the five best fighting games like MultiVersus, so buckle up because it's about to get wild!

5. Brawlhalla

First up in the five best fighting games like MultiVersus is Brawlhalla, a free-to-play online fighting game in which players' main goal is to fight their opponents and knock them off the stage. Each character has their own set of skills that players must master to deal the most damage and win!

Brawlhalla, which was released in 2014, has received consistent updates and upgrades to compete quite well with Multiversus and, dare we say, Super Smash Bros. To date, the game has up to 55 playable characters, each with a unique set of weapons and colorful, customizable skins. You can also compete against up to 8 other people on the couch or online. Furthermore, fans of Brawlout, the popular party fighting game, WWE, The Walking Dead, and Street Fighter will be pleased to find some crossover characters such as Lara Croft and Rayman in Brawlhalla!

In terms of in-game purchases (of course, there’s always a catch with free-to-play games), you only need to be concerned with spending real money on skins and extra weapons. Otherwise, Brawlhalla’s free-to-play model doesn’t nearly diminish its graphic or mechanical quality in any way.

4. Towerfall

We all enjoy a good laugh now and then. Plus, what could be more entertaining than a platform fighting game that takes a different approach to the all-too-common fists and blows? If you want to see pixelated knights shooting arrows and jumping on each other's heads, or whatever method works to defeat your opponent, Towerfall got you an archery combat platformer to fill a dull night with up to four players!

Towerfall is a fantastic game to play that can be both hilarious and intense. The game spices things up by giving you limited resources, so you’ve got to use your arrows wisely. You must also dodge (or catch) as many arrows or feet as possible. As simple as it appears, Towerfall has the potential to turn a dull night into a fueled, competitive party battle game.

3. Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl

Many gamers enjoy playing Multiversus because it features crossover characters from Warner Bros. Discovery. So, if you’re a fan of Nickelodeon, you'll have twice the fun playing characters from your favorite shows. We're talking Spongebob, Ninja Turtles, Avatar characters, and many more!

What's more, you do get some pretty good mechanics that come close to matching the renowned fast-paced and intense fighting rounds from the Super Smash Bros. series. As the game continues to receive updates and upgrades, we can expect to see many more Nicktoon characters, as well as possible voice acting? Either way, switching from Multiversus to Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl will feel like a piece of cake, given their similar ‘brawling’ gameplay, which ranks it high up in the five best fighting games like MultiVersus.

2. Street Fighter V (Series)

The Street Fighter series has a timeless appeal. You've probably played at least one of its games, though we particularly recommend Street Fighter V. This classic platform fighting game is a Japanese make that has had a significant impact on the platform fighting genre we know of today. 

Street Fighter’s gameplay is simple: choose a champion street fighter, each with their own set of skills, and go head-to-head with your opponent to win!  Street Fighter V can accommodate up to two players at a time, in the same room or online. Because Street Fighter has been around since the 1990s, there is a wealth of content to be salvaged, including seven mainline games, numerous spin-offs, and crossovers to other media platforms. 

Each game adds new characters to the roster, which was expanded to 16 characters at the launch of Street Fighter V. Afterward, new updates introduced 30 new characters and DLC content that are now available! Whichever game you play, Street Fighter has a solid reputation for never-ending fun that feels incredibly satisfying.

1. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Series)

Topping this list of the five best fighting games like MultiVersus is, without a doubt, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. It’s no secret that Super Smash Bros. has dominated the platform fighting genre for decades – and with good reason. Just by watching Nintendo's videos, it's easy to see how influential Super Smash Bros. has been on all of the other fighting games that have sprung up since its release, from games like Lego Brawls, to Brawlout, to Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl. So much so that it wouldn't be a stretch to say Nintendo's flagship fighting game franchise pioneered the fighting genre we know today.

If you haven't played Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, it’s a real-time brawler worth your time. The game features 89 playable characters, some of whom are crossovers from Nintendo franchises, your favorite shows, and third-party franchises. In fact, these characters are drawn from 43 distinct games. Each character displaying unique moves that you’ve got to learn and perfect. If there's one thing the Ultimate edition has going for it, it's that there's no shortage of content to keep you entertained. Everything, from the platform fighting stages to the costumes, trophies, spirits, and music tracks. All these feels overwhelming and is like a new experience that never gets old. 

Quite frankly, it's a complete and all-around experience, especially for gamers who want to start playing Super Smash Bros. but are concerned about being too late. With Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, you'll have seamless gameplay from far more than the best-of-hits games from the Super Smash Bros. long-running franchise, with gorgeous displays and a tightly woven and refined fighting system.

So, what’s your take? Do you agree with our five best fighting games like MultiVersus? Are there more games like MultiVersus that we should add to this list? Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.

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Capcom has released the first look at Street Fighter 6, with more details to come in the coming days.

In comparison to its predecessors, Street Fighter 6 appears to have a more realistic art design. According to the teaser clip, it now mixes the graphics of Tekken with a current 3D fighter. It might, however, keep its classic look while incorporating a modern aesthetic.

Capcom has released a teaser trailer to commemorate the news. Take a look at the trailer below for a sneak peek of what they are planning for the game.

The game's platforms are yet to be confirmed, and the official press release provided few details. Capcom did provide two screenshots as well as the game's official logo. The youtube description includes an official website. However, the website doesn't appear to have any recent updates. More information will be released in the summer of 2022.

Capcom chose a cell-shared 3D art style for Street Fighter V, which got mixed reviews. In some situations, it looked fantastic, but in others, it made some of the characters appear considerably worse.

The PS4 and PC versions of Street Fighter V were the only ones available. After its initial release, it received multiple additions that introduced over two dozen more combatants to the game. After the last Capcom Pro Tour closes, Capcom plans to discontinue support for the game and focus on the newly announced Street Fighter 6.

The first Street Fighter was released as an arcade game in 1987 and Street Fighter II  followed in 1991. Its revolutionary battle system sparked widespread interest, inventing the fighting game genre and propelling the series' total shipments to 47 million units worldwide over time.

Despite the fact that Street Fighter has been around for more than 35 years, the series continues to be popular around the world. Furthermore, the series has grown in popularity in recent years by spearheading the fighting game genre in esports. So, what are your thoughts on the Street Fighter 6? Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.

You can also look at: 

• 10 Classic Capcom Games Make a Return in the Capcom Fighting Collection Coming In June

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One of, if not Capcom’s greatest Street Fighter character, is the voluptuous, courageous, and independent Chun-Li. Chun-Li’s name means “beautiful spring” in Chinese. The brown-eyed, world-class martial artist (called the strongest woman in the world) became interested in martial arts, after being introduced to Bruce Lee. 

Further proving her independence, at the age of 18, Chun-Li joined Interpol, tracking down powerful organizations like the Shadaloo. Although she does not have the greatest winning streak against every opponent, she tries to seek revenge on M. Bison (a drug lord and military dictator), for the death of her father, Dorai.

During any Street Fighter gameplay, Chun-Li (well-versed in Taek-wan-do, Capoeira, Tai chi, and more) can easily avoid incoming attacks, faster than the drop of a dime with her signature Lightning Kick. She is the first female character of all fighting games, has an adopted child (Li-Fen, who is also one of her martial arts students in Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike, as a non-playable character), is a cosplay icon, and still appears young. 

So far, there is a Brawlhalla crossover with Ryu, Chun-Li, and Akura joining as playable characters. Here are 5 things we want from Street Fighter’s Chun-Li.

5. A Chun-Li Movie: 

Sure, Chun-Li is a character in Street Fighter (1994) and we got to see “Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li” in 2009, where she is the main character (and Ryu and Ken never show up). In fact, she is in all of the Street Fighter movies and to not add her to a Street Fighter movie, could be devastating. 

We just cannot get enough of Chun-Li. Chun-Li having her own movie title without Street Fighter sharing it, sounds exceptional. Besides, she should be a household name without Street Fighter and any Street Fighter characters are placed in the movie, that would be interesting as well.

4. How Does Chun-Li Live After M. Bison Dies?:

In the Street Fighter arcade game, Chun-Li battles M. Bison (the leader of the international crime syndicate Shadowlaw). Her objective in the Street Fighter movies is to avenge her father’s death, but how exactly does she live after M. Bison dies? I want to see how she cooperates with life, continues to raise her child, and other fighters she may train or battle. 

Does she feel better M. Bison is dead? To have stirred up emotions for so long, one is not in the right mindset, but months or years later, is she furious at the mere thought of the former military dictator?

3. A Large In-Game Wardrobe Selection: 

Often, Chun-Li is seen wearing a modified qipao (also known as a cheongsam, giving her a wider range of motion) and combat/ boxing boots, in the video game, Street Fighter 2. In Street Fighter Alpha, she wore an embroidered vest, unitard, studded wristbands, athletic shoes. 

A wide-range of wardrobe selection for Chun-Li should not hurt. She already looks magnificent, so give her more stylish clothing.

2. A Home Workout Video: 

Okay. Think sort of like Billy Blanks (the creator of the Tae Bo exercise program), but Chun-Li teaching you exactly how to perform step-by-step martial arts at home. There could be a beginners level and an expert level. Remember that since Chun-Li is an animated character, the creative team can place all sorts of special effects in the foreground, middle ground, and background.

1. More About Chun-Li’s Love Life: 

We know that Ryu and Chun-Li had a romantic interest in Malibu’s short-lived comic book version of Street Fighter, in 1991. It showed Chun-Li appearing desperate for Ryu at points, but Ryu was too manly to be satisfied by Chun-Li, being obsessed with his training. It is fine because she can brush off the past and have a stronger romance life for fans to see. Then, Ryu may show signs of jealousy. 

The post 5 Things We Want From Street Fighter’s Chun-Li appeared first on Gaming.net.

Fighting games have been one of the communities all-time favourite genres for decades now, with Street Fighter and the likes establishing a world class reputation and paving the way for others for generations to come. The problem that sprouts from that fact is that hundreds, if not thousands of hidden gems in this day and age are left scrapping for the centre stage. And with Tekken, Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter basically hogging the limelight with their next-level chapters and loyal followings, those underdogs can often be left behind the curtain.

We've been weaving through the catalogue in search of some of the best fighting games on the underground scene. And while some may be globally recognised in certain regions — the global audience has yet to get a taster. So, if you're on the prowl for something fresh and completely out of your comfort zone — then allow us to introduce you to these hidden fighting gems.

5. Blade Strangers

Although we've all heard of Super Smash Bros. and its renowned roster of crossover characters, only few have tuned in to Blade Strangers, an equally as exciting 2D fighting game that also puts toes into multiple franchise pools. And let me tell you — if you're new to the fighting genre and only wish to have a place to hone your skills, then this is probably the stage to practice on. That's because, unlike some of the more elite entries out on the market, Blade Strangers instead channels your inner rookie status, tutoring you to evolve and obliterate future opponents.

Stitching together characters from six different franchises, Blade Strangers assembles one memorable cast of unique heroes, all of which come with their original moves and abilities. From Cave Story to The Binding of Isaac, Code of Princess to Shovel Knight, you'll wrap your head around layer after layer of local talent, building your knowledge base in preparation of the big fight.

4. Rivals of Aether

We've all played our share of Nintendo fighting games, sure — but what we haven't spent a great deal of time with is the lesser-known fighters on the market, mainly ones that fail to strike an immediate chord after glossing over the original line-up. And while we're all guilty of scrolling past a genuine nugget of joy every once in a while, we are somewhat capable of fishing them out years down the line.

Take this one, for example. Rivals of Aether, developed by one incredibly talented dude, was perhaps one of the greatest gems that slyly snuck under our radar back in 2015. With its original style and roster, snappy combat and addictive nature, it probably should've appeared a little higher on our to-to list after launch rolled around. But alas, it's still going strong on the Switch front — and we definitely think you should give it a whirl if you're in the area.

3. Them's Fightin' Herds

When we think of fighting games in a nutshell — we don't automatically weave the likes of My Little Pony with its violent nature. And yet, here we are, staring down the bottle of perhaps the strangest fighting game ever created. A compelling fighting game, of course — but strange. So very, very strange. But let's shed a little light on this unusual masterpiece.

Them's Fightin' Herds was originally supposed to be a fan made game as part of the My Little Pony franchise, with many of the chatcaters pulled directly from the children's series itself. And yet, after a whole lot of tweaking, that charming little fighter somehow escalated into an all-powerful platform of unhinged destruction. Admittedly, we didn't know what to do with it once it landed — but we welcomed it like a long lost relative anyway A weird and distant relative, twice removed. Maybe thrice.

2. Dong Dong Never Die

Speaking of strange, it seems only right that we include Dong Dong Never Die, which is hands down the weirdest game you'll probably ever play in your career. But the video above doesn't really do it any justice, as it pretty much looks like an ecstasy-fuelled homemade recording brewed from a basement somewhere. Gameplay-wise, however, Dong Dong Never Die actually had a few quality ingredients. I just don't think the creators even knew what they had in their hands until fans opened their palms for them to reveal the gold enveloped within.

Dong Dong Never Die is the type of game you'd pick up from a bargain bin on a Sunday afternoon, curious to know how such an unusual concoction ever made it to the shelves. Once booted up, however, you quickly realise that there's more to it than its ludicrous design and laughable roster of characters. Turns out, it's actually a quality game with plenty to adore, with enough to keep you stepping back to relive it time and time again.

1. Vanguard Princess

Don't let the anime style fool you. Vanguard Princess is much harder than one might expect — almost doubling the difficulty of our first mentioned Blade Strangers. And to add to that statement, Vanguard Princess was actually built from the same hammer that constructed the likes of Resident Evil 3 and The King of Fighters EX: Neo Blood. So, definitely not your run-of-the-mill rookie fighting simulator, that's for sure.

With that said, Vanguard Princess is still a welcoming entry to the fighting genre, with plenty of assistance to guide new players through its enchanting world. It's also something that holds up today, despite being well over a decade old and released on outdated operating systems. But then, if you're seriously into the doujinshi world, then this one is pretty timeless.

Are there any fighting games you think we should've mentioned? Let us know over on our socials here.

Looking for more? You could always take a look at one of these lists:

5 Easy Platinum Trophies You Can Grab Right Now

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Have you grown a llittle weary of Mortal Kombat? Looking for a fresh fighting game to feast on this weekend? Why not try one of these five

The post 5 Epic Fighting Games You Probably Missed appeared first on Gaming.net.

In a world so consumed by the likes of Dota 2 and other well-known eSports kingpins, it's sort of hard to shed light on the underdogs of the competitive scene. And in this case, we're talking about fighting games, or, more specifically — Street Fighter. Of course, it seems slightly ludicrous to even pin the Capcom phenomenon in a box anywhere other than the apex of competitive gaming — but it's true. Street Fighter, despite the popularity and influences it has cast on the gaming world over the years, really isn't all that big compared to other gaming icons.

Ever since 1987, Capcom has continued to devote their ambition to evolving Street Fighter and its surrounding world. From toying with the physics to enrolling new characters for the portfolio — each addition to the series has ultimately raised the stakes and made an impact in one way or another. Heck, even in 2021, Capcom still pours blood, sweat and tears into the legacy of the game by producing remakes, anniversary editions and even a few annual circuits for players to flock to for some pretty generous prizes. It's all there — and it's unlikely to fade anytime soon, either. And so, regardless of its underdog status — Street Fighter is definitely here to stay.

Street Fighter: In a Nutshell

Frankly — Street Fighter really isn't all that hard to master. Well, I say that — when really it's the button layout that you'll be able to swiftly navigate with ease, whereas the actual techniques and attack patterns will require years of extensive training. Of course, it seems rather odd when picturing all the actions one could possibly take with only a few buttons to mash. But since the golden age of arcade gaming sizzled out, Street Fighter has gone on to find roots on home consoles — which means actions have gradually increased over the years.

Fast-forward to the present day, and you'll be amazed at just how many attacks, combos and special moves each unique character can make in a match. And believe me when I say — there are a lot of additional things to wrap your head around. But let's just say that there's a lot more to Street Fighter than mashing a single button and praying for victory. Rewind a few decades and that might've been the case for any casual player, but put two professionals in the ring today — and you'll quickly notice the mind-boggling variety of controls.

Game Modes Explained

Street Fighter, despite its perpetual catalogue of special moves and powerful combos, really isn't all that difficult to understand. And from a spectators point of view — nothing could be simpler to follow. In fact, observing a few rounds of Street Fighter doesn't require a great deal of focus in order to participate. That being said, from a users perspective, dominating the arena can be a slightly more daunting task.

Street Fighter is a 1v1 tournament-based fighting game, with each player filling the role of one of the many characters on the roster and battling it out over four rounds of fast-paced combat. With each hero possessing a unique arsenal of moves and combos, both players must test their knowledge by stringing well-placed attacks together to gain the upper hand. And then, of course, there's actually blocking moves, as well as knowing how to counter each attempt perfectly. Put all of that in a series of 99-second bouts and you're looking at a pretty exhilarating sport.

Tournaments & Prize Pools

Street Fighter might have taken a leap back from the spotlight in order to cast a wider one on other competitive titles — but that doesn't mean Capcom refuses to breathe life into their beloved franchise at all. And as far as tournaments go, Capcom Pro Tour is still very much the floating lifeline that the publisher resorts to to help bolster the hype and sway the online community. Okay, so the prize pools don't tend to reach mouth-watering heights compared to other celebrated hits, but they do often climb to some pretty impressive feats.

Capcom Pro Tour initiates 30 regional premiers over 19 territories around the world, each holding a $5,000 take for the winning team. Once the winning teams ascend the ranks and secure a spot in The Capcom Cup, the prize pool is ultimately ramped up to $200,000 or more, depending on Capcom's budget. Following on from that, the best players will battle it out for the top prize, as well as a spot among the greatest Street Fighter contestants in the world.

Capcom Pro Tour currently holds 30 regional premiers with $5,000 prize pools for each winning team.

Stacking Against the Odds

It's pretty easy to lose sight of what's what and who's who in the Street Fighter domain — especially with the number of professional players on the circuit. Luckily, we've got Liquipedia to help shed a little extra light on the game and its core details. Plus, with Capcom Pro Tour sharing the leaderboard and current statistics for each heavy hitter, research can be a lot less daunting than having to submerge in a boatload of online streams and chat forums to get your fix.

Admittedly, the toughest hurdle to jump when wrapping your head around Street Fighter is the combat itself. With an ocean of command lists and attack patterns to study — learning the ins and outs of each playable character can be slightly monotonous. That being said, with so many experts on the scene with special knowledge banks devoted to certain characters, you can practically learn the roster over a discussion or two. Of course, that is if you wish to understand the game front and back. Otherwise, your best bet at getting your foot in the door is by rifling through the current standings and watching past tournaments on YouTube, Twitch or Twitter.

Betting Sites

Ready to place a bet? Why not take a look at one of these sites for some of the best offers available right now?

GG.bet — Most recommended for Canada. – (USA, UK, & Australia Prohibited).

Looking to gain an edge elsewhere? Why not take a look at one of these?

StarCraft II Betting

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