Street Fighter II: Hyper Fighting (XBLA) Review
Posted by Ramon Aranda on 08.08.2006
Are you a World Warrior or a n00b?
So Street Fighter II has finally hit XBLA after numerous delays, but is it worth the wait? At 800MS Points, it doesn't seem too steep, though I would've preferred a 400MS price tag! After numerous previews and reports of lag during online matches and even single player games, I decided to take the plunge and download the full version. I've played this game nonstop for a few days and I honestly didn't have much to complain about...
Graphics
Fans of HD upgraded old school games will come away disappointed. Capcom did not convert this old school fighter into a snazzy 'next-gen' port. No..Capcom decided that we'd get exactly what they advertised....a straight arcade port to the SFII game. The only real options we're given is the ability to stretch the game screen from 4:3 into 16:9 for those of us who just have to fill the screen. Still, the game comes off extremely rich in color thanks to component cables and an HDTV.
Gameplay
Gameplay is exactly what we've come to known. Nothing new here, though the XBOX 360 controller doesn't seem to fit quite perfectly. Maybe I'm too spoiled by the SNES controller and using the D-Pad, but whatever the case, it doesn't feel quite right. Even so, most players shouldn't have too tough of a time blasting out Hadukens and Tiger Uppercuts if they've been able to do them in the past. In my personal experiences, I have not noticed ANY lag either in single player mode or online against other players. This was a big negative with many previews of the game, but I did not notice any slowdowns at all. The only issue I've come across is that when attempting to connect w/another player, it will at times 'Time Out', forcing you to try and connect with someone else. I'm hoping Capcom has a fix for this soon.
Sound
I was a little disappointed that this game was not upgraded with Dolby Digital sound, but I guess it was expected. 'straight arcade port" means STRAIGHT ARCADE POR! Stereo sound is what we get here fellas!
Lasting Appeal
I was always a big fan of Super Street Fighter II for the SNES. Problem was, I would get bored playing w/myself (no pun intended....as no one gets tired of that!) or smashing on my younger brother. The bait here is that we can now pwnt other players online to recreate that old arcade feeling. And if you REALLY want that arcade experience, Capcom has included a 'Quarter' mode which literally recreates that environment. While a game is in progress, other players can put down virtual quarters to challenge the winner. Simply put, online play will keep the game fresh.
Fun Factor
What could be more fun that spanking a n00b with 3 consecutive Sonic Kicks? It’s as fun as it was in 1991. But beware, almost EVERY player with a mic WILL talk shit, so either take it like a man, shit talk back or play against someone w/no mic. NOTE: You can create your own game and turn the voice chat off. This might be a good idea if you have a younger sibling or child who will play the game and you'd like for them not to get called a biotch.
The 411
Simply put, if you have 800MS points to spare and you enjoyed playing Street Fighter II at the arcades, you'll definitely have to pick this game up. If you expect DOA graphics and sound then you might come away a bit unhappy as I've mentioned before...this is a straight arcade port, so no next-gen upgrades. Too bad, as I would've loved to see this in true HD. But no matter, it’s a fun game to play and as long as you have some SFII experience, then you should enjoy yourself online.
Graphics
6.0
Straight arcade port, so don't expect any HD upgrades...just old school SFII sprite goodness.
Gameplay
7.5
Plays smooth and lag free, though the 360 controller may not be the best fit.
Sound
5.0
Again, straight arcade port. No Dolby Digital upgrades...just good ol' fashioned stereo.
Lasting Appeal
9.0
This is where it really shines. Ability to play online keeps it fresh and exciting.
Fun Factor
9.0
If you loved SFII in 1991, you'll love it once again.
