Since its inception in 1987, the Street Fighter series has been synonymous with the fighting game genre. It’s captivated players worldwide with iconic characters, fluid gameplay mechanics, and fierce competitive spirit. With numerous iterations and spin-offs over the years, the franchise has evolved while maintaining its core essence. In this article, we delve into the best Street Fighter games that have left an indelible mark on gaming history, showcasing the evolution and enduring appeal of this legendary franchise.
‘But there’s only six Street Fighter games?’ I hear you cry. While the mainline of the series has only been numbered up to six, that’s far from true. In fact, in total there have been 19 Street Fighter games. And that’s not including the various spin-offs (Puzzle Fighter anyone?), compilations or re-releases. For the purposes of this article, all variations on Street Fighter II are considered just that: variations, not a new entry. And the same could be said for Street Fighter III or Street Fighter V, both of which have had many different versions released.
So, with that out the way, here’s our picks for the seven best Street Fighter games to date!
Best Street Fighter Games
Street Fighter II: The World Warrior (1991)
The one where it all began. Well, obviously Street Fighter is where it technically began, but that game is rubbish. Instead, it’s Street Fighter II: The World Warrior that is widely regarded as one of the most influential and groundbreaking fighting games of all time.
The game was introduced in arcades in 1991 and later ported to various home consoles. Street Fighter II revolutionised the genre with its diverse roster of characters, each with their unique fighting styles and special moves. The competitive gameplay, fluid controls, and memorable soundtrack set the standard for future fighting games.
Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike – Fight for the Future (1999)
As with many titles in the series, Street Fighter III‘s launch edition wasn’t met with welcome response from fans. In fact, it famously took until the third edition, Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike – Fight for the Future, to get the recognition it needed. And when it did, boy did it hit hard.
Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike – Fight for the Future is often hailed as the pinnacle of the Street Fighter series. Known for its technical depth, stunning animation, and balanced gameplay, the game released in arcades in 1999. It introduced a new roster of characters while retaining the series’ signature combo system and parry mechanic. With its fluid animation and precise controls, Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike remains a favorite among competitive players and fighting game enthusiasts. What a turnaround, huh?
Street Fighter IV (2008)
Street Fighter IV marked the triumphant return of the series to mainstream prominence. It revitalised the franchise for a new generation of players. Released in 2008, the game retained the classic 2D fighting gameplay. Yet at the same time, it introduced stunning 3D graphics and a roster of new and returning characters. With its accessible yet deep combat mechanics, Street Fighter IV struck a perfect balance between casual and competitive play. The game garnered critical acclaim and revitalised the fighting game community.
Street Fighter Alpha 3 (1998)
Street Fighter Alpha 3, aka Street Fighter Zero 3 in Japan, is celebrated for its vibrant sprite-based graphics and robust gameplay mechanics. The game debuted in arcades in 1998 and was later ported to home consoles. It expanded on the Alpha series with the addition of new characters, multiple fighting styles, and the introduction of the “ism” system. This allowed players to customise their playstyle. But not like the gems in Street Fighter x Tekken, thankfully.
Street Fighter 6 (2023)
Street Fighter 6 is the newest title on the block. It’s one of two Street Fighter games released in 2023, but the less said about Street Fighter Duel the better. Street Fighter 6 brought the series to modern console hardware and added a brand new campaign mode into the mix. World Tour is a single-player story mode featuring a customisable player avatar exploring 3D environments. These included Final Fight‘s Metro City and the small, fictional South Asian nation of Nayshall. It marks the first time a mainline Street Fighter game has stepped into this realm, and was well received by many. The game is undoubtedly one of the best fighting games available today.
Street Fighter V (2016)
Street Fighter V continued the tradition of delivering fast-paced, competitive fighting gameplay while introducing new mechanics and features. Released in 2016 for the PlayStation 4 and PC, the game was another title that performed poorly at launch. However, over the years it has built a diverse roster of characters and robust online multiplayer modes. Despite facing criticism for its initial lack of content and issues with online connectivity, Street Fighter V has evolved over time with regular updates and expansions, solidifying its position as a staple in the competitive fighting game scene.
If you’re new to the game, be sure to check out Chit Hot’s how to inlock all characters in Street Fighter 5 guide!
Street Fighter Alpha 2 (1996)
Street Fighter Alpha 2, released in arcades in 1996 and later ported to home consoles, refined the mechanics introduced in the original Alpha game while expanding the roster and introducing new features. The game featured updated visuals, improved gameplay balance, and the addition of custom combos, allowing players to string together devastating attacks. Street Fighter Alpha 2 is praised for its fast-paced gameplay, intricate combo system, and memorable character designs, making it a standout title in the series.
The Street Fighter series has remained a dominant force in the fighting game genre for over three decades. This is thanks to its compelling characters, deep gameplay mechanics, and enduring legacy. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the franchise, the best Street Fighter games offer something for everyone. From thrilling competitive matches to unforgettable single-player experiences. As the series continues to evolve and innovate, one thing remains certain: Street Fighter will always hold a special place in the hearts of gamers worldwide.
What’s your pick for the best Street Fighter games? Did we miss one of your favourites? Let us know in the comments below!
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