Street Fighter. The name conjures images of epic battles, iconic special moves, and a cast of characters that have become legends in the gaming world. For many, Street Fighter II is where it all truly began, setting the standard for fighting games and introducing a roster of World Warriors who are as beloved today as they were in the arcades of the early 90s. Whether you’re a veteran player who grew up mastering quarter-circle motions or a newcomer eager to understand the hype, let’s take a detailed look at the original twelve characters of Street Fighter II.
Ryu
Ryu in his iconic white gi, ready to fight in Street Fighter 2
The Embodiment of the Martial Artist
Ryu is arguably the most recognizable Street Fighter character and a symbol of the franchise itself. He is the quintessential martial artist, dedicating his entire life to the pursuit of mastery in karate. Beyond just fighting, Ryu embodies the discipline, respect, and relentless training inherent in the martial arts philosophy. His simple white gi, worn and tattered, speaks volumes about his ascetic lifestyle and unwavering focus. He travels the world seeking strong opponents, not for fame or fortune, but to test his skills and push himself to greater heights.
The Inner Struggle
Beneath his stoic exterior, Ryu battles a constant internal conflict: the Satsui no Hado, or Surge of Murderous Intent. This dark force threatens to consume him, turning his pure pursuit of martial arts into a destructive obsession. This internal struggle adds depth to Ryu’s character, making him more than just a fighting machine. It highlights his constant battle for balance and control, a theme that resonates with players and adds a layer of complexity to his otherwise straightforward persona. While he has managed to keep the Satsui no Hado at bay, its presence is a constant reminder of the darkness he must overcome.
Iconic Moveset
Ryu’s move list is synonymous with Street Fighter. His signature Hadoken, a ball of spiritual energy, is one of the most famous projectiles in fighting game history. The Shoryuken, his rising dragon punch, is a powerful anti-air and reversal technique. And the Tatsumaki Senpu-kyaku, or hurricane kick, adds a spinning aerial assault to his arsenal. These moves, simple to execute yet deep in application, form the foundation of Ryu’s balanced and versatile fighting style, making him an excellent character for both beginners and seasoned players.
Ken
Ken Masters, Ryu's rival and sparring partner, in his red karate gi
The Wealthy and Wild Counterpart
Ken Masters is Ryu’s lifelong friend and training partner, but their personalities are starkly contrasting. Where Ryu is disciplined and austere, Ken is flamboyant, confident, and lives life to the fullest. Born into wealth, Ken’s privileged background allows him a freedom Ryu doesn’t have, contributing to his carefree attitude. Despite their differences, their shared martial arts upbringing and deep bond of friendship remain a central element of their characters. Ken’s flashy red gi and blonde hair mirror his exuberant personality, a stark contrast to Ryu’s simple and understated appearance.
Character Evolution
Ken is one of the few Street Fighter characters who has shown significant character development over the series. He matures from a brash young fighter to a husband and father, adding layers to his personality beyond just being Ryu’s rival. This evolution has seen him mellow slightly, but his passion for fighting remains undiminished. He balances his family life with his continued training, showing a different path for a martial artist than Ryu’s solitary dedication.
Fiery Techniques
Ken’s moveset is very similar to Ryu’s, reflecting their shared training. However, Ken’s techniques often have a more aggressive and visually striking flair. His Shoryuken is engulfed in flames, emphasizing his fiery spirit. He also shares the Hadoken and Hurricane Kick, but Ken’s execution often feels faster and more offensively oriented. This slight variation in style makes Ken a more rush-down, aggressive counterpart to Ryu’s more balanced approach, appealing to players who prefer a high-energy fighting style.
Chun-Li
Chun-Li, the first lady of fighting games, known for her powerful kicks
The Strongest Woman in the World
Chun-Li is a pioneering character, often credited as the first female fighter in a major fighting game. A skilled martial artist from China, she is an Interpol agent driven by a desire to avenge her father’s death at the hands of M. Bison. Chun-Li is known for her speed, agility, and, most famously, her incredibly powerful legs. Her dedication to justice and her unwavering resolve make her a fan favorite and a symbol of female strength in gaming.
Justice and Determination
Chun-Li’s motivations are deeply personal, fueling her relentless pursuit of M. Bison. Her role as an Interpol agent allows her to use her skills to fight for justice on a global scale, combining her personal vendetta with a broader sense of duty. This duality makes her a compelling character, driven by both grief and a strong moral compass. She is not afraid to challenge authority and will stop at nothing to achieve her goals, showcasing her fierce independence and unwavering determination.
Legs of Legend
Chun-Li’s fighting style revolves around her phenomenal kicking ability. Her signature move, the Hyakuretsukyaku or Hundred Rending Legs (Lightning Kick), is a rapid barrage of lightning-fast kicks. She also utilizes aerial kicks and powerful stance-based attacks. Her speed and agility make her a formidable opponent, capable of overwhelming enemies with a flurry of strikes. Over time, she also adopted projectile attacks like the Kikoken, showcasing her adaptability and growth as a fighter.
Zangief
Zangief, the Red Cyclone, a proud representative of Russia in Street Fighter 2
The Mighty Red Cyclone
Zangief, the “Red Cyclone,” is a hulking Russian wrestler who fights to bring glory to his homeland. He is a symbol of strength and national pride, embodying the classic image of a powerful Russian wrestler. Despite his imposing physique and intimidating presence, Zangief is often portrayed as somewhat naive and good-natured, making him a surprisingly endearing character. His signature mohawk and scars, supposedly earned wrestling bears, add to his rugged and larger-than-life persona.
Patriotism and Power
Zangief’s motivations are rooted in patriotism and a desire to showcase the strength of Russia (or the USSR, depending on the game’s timeline). He is often used for political purposes, but his dedication to his country is genuine. Despite his brute strength, he is not portrayed as villainous, but rather as a proud and honorable fighter. His character subverts some of the Cold War-era stereotypes of Russians, presenting him as a powerful yet ultimately good-hearted individual.
Grappling Giant
Zangief’s fighting style is centered around powerful grappling moves. His most iconic technique is the Spinning Pile Driver, a devastating command grab that was once the most damaging move in the Street Fighter series. He also utilizes powerful throws and lariats, emphasizing his wrestling background. His slow movement speed is compensated by his incredible strength and ability to punish opponents who get too close, making him a fearsome grappler and close-range specialist.
Guile
The All-American Hero
Guile is a US Air Force operative driven by revenge for the death of his comrade, Charlie Nash, at the hands of M. Bison. He embodies the stoic and determined military man, with his disciplined fighting style and unwavering focus. Guile’s iconic flat-top haircut and dog tags, including Charlie’s, are instantly recognizable and contribute to his patriotic and somber image.
Vengeance and Duty
Guile’s primary motivation is avenging Charlie’s death, fueling his relentless pursuit of M. Bison and Shadaloo. His military background instills in him a strong sense of duty and justice. He often cooperates with Chun-Li in their shared mission to take down Bison, highlighting his willingness to work with allies towards a common goal. His serious demeanor and unwavering resolve make him a classic action hero archetype within the Street Fighter universe.
Charge Master
Guile is famous for his “charge” based moves. His signature Sonic Boom, a projectile of compressed air, and Somersault Kick (Flash Kick), an anti-air attack, are both executed by charging backward and then forward + punch/kick. This unique input method sets him apart from other characters and rewards strategic planning and anticipation. His defensive and zoning style, utilizing these charge moves, makes him a challenging opponent to approach and a favorite of players who prefer a more tactical playstyle.
E. Honda
E. Honda, the sumo wrestler, representing Japan with pride in Street Fighter 2
Sumo Champion of the World
Edmond Honda, or E. Honda, is a proud sumo wrestler determined to prove the strength and glory of sumo to the world. He is a jovial and energetic character, full of enthusiasm for his chosen sport. His traditional sumo mawashi and face paint are instantly recognizable, representing Japanese culture and the ancient art of sumo wrestling. Honda’s goal is to elevate sumo to the international stage, even aspiring to have it included in the Olympics.
Promoting Tradition
Honda’s motivations are centered around showcasing sumo wrestling to a global audience and dispelling any misconceptions about its effectiveness as a fighting style. He travels the world competing against other martial artists to demonstrate the power of sumo. His dedication to his craft and his desire for recognition are both humorous and earnest, making him a lighthearted and endearing member of the Street Fighter cast.
Hundred Hand Slaps and Sumo Spirit
E. Honda’s fighting style is based on sumo techniques. His signature Hundred Hand Slap (Hyakuretsu Harite) is a rapid flurry of open-handed strikes. He also utilizes sumo headbutts and rushing attacks like the Sumo Headbutt (Daimawashi) and Sumo Splash (Oicho投げ). His close-range brawling style and powerful, unorthodox attacks make him a unique and memorable character, capable of overwhelming opponents with sheer force and relentless offense.
Dhalsim
Dhalsim, the yoga master from India, known for his flexible limbs and fire breath
The Pacifistic Mystic
Dhalsim is a yoga master from India, known for his pacifistic nature and his incredible ability to stretch his limbs. He is a spiritual character, dedicated to self-improvement and inner peace. His skeletal physique, skull necklace, and ability to breathe fire create a mysterious and somewhat unsettling image, contrasting with his gentle and wise demeanor.
Inner Peace and Outer Conflict
Despite being a pacifist at heart, Dhalsim enters the Street Fighter tournament for humanitarian reasons, often to raise money for his village or to fight against evil forces. His inner conflict between his pacifist beliefs and the necessity of fighting adds depth to his character. He seeks enlightenment and harmony but is willing to use his unique abilities to protect the innocent and fight for what he believes in.
Yoga Fire and Elongated Limbs
Dhalsim’s fighting style is unlike any other in Street Fighter. His mastery of yoga allows him to stretch his limbs to extraordinary lengths, enabling him to attack from a distance and maintain space between himself and his opponents. His signature Yoga Fire, a projectile of flame, and Yoga Flame (close-range fire breath) are iconic moves. His zoning and keep-away tactics make him a frustrating opponent for those who prefer close-quarters combat, rewarding players who can control space and utilize his unique movement and attack ranges.
Blanka
Blanka, the wild man of the Amazon, with his green skin and electric powers
The Beast Man of Brazil
Blanka is a feral man raised in the Amazon rainforest of Brazil. His green skin and wild appearance make him one of the most visually distinctive Street Fighter characters. He is often described as a beast-man, but beneath his savage exterior lies a surprisingly gentle nature and a longing for connection. His backstory of surviving a plane crash and being raised by electric eels adds a fantastical element to his character.
Nature and Instinct
Blanka’s motivations are often tied to his connection with nature and his search for belonging in the human world. He is driven by instinct and a primal understanding of the jungle. His eventual reunion with his mother adds a touching and humanizing element to his wild persona. He represents the untamed side of humanity, contrasting with the more civilized and disciplined characters in the roster.
Electric Fury and Savage Strikes
Blanka’s fighting style is wild and unpredictable, reflecting his jungle upbringing. His signature Electric Thunder attack allows him to generate electricity from his body, shocking opponents. He also utilizes rolling attacks like Rolling Attack and Vertical Rolling, showcasing his animalistic agility. His unpredictable movements and electric powers make him a chaotic and exciting character to play, capable of overwhelming opponents with raw aggression and surprising tactics.
Balrog
Balrog, the boxer driven by greed, a powerful force in Street Fighter 2
The Greedy Boxer
Balrog, originally named M. Bison in Japan (and later Mike Bison in some regions due to Mike Tyson), is a former professional boxer who was banned from the sport for his brutal and unethical tactics. He is driven purely by greed and a desire for wealth, making him one of the more morally ambiguous characters in Street Fighter. His imposing physique, boxing gloves, and aggressive demeanor reflect his ruthless and money-hungry personality.
Money and Mayhem
Balrog’s motivations are solely focused on accumulating wealth. He joins Shadaloo as one of M. Bison’s enforcers, seeing it as a path to riches and power. He is portrayed as brutal, amoral, and willing to do anything for money. His lack of loyalty and purely self-serving nature make him a classic villainous archetype, contrasting with the more noble motivations of other characters.
Fists of Fury
Balrog’s fighting style is pure boxing. He relies solely on punches and headbutts, eschewing kicks entirely. His signature Dash Punch (Dash Straight) and Turn Punch are powerful charging attacks that emphasize his raw punching power. His straightforward, aggressive boxing style makes him a hard-hitting brawler, capable of overwhelming opponents with relentless offense and devastating blows.
Vega
Vega, the narcissistic Spanish ninja matador, obsessed with beauty in Street Fighter 2
The Narcissistic Ninja Matador
Vega, known as Balrog in Japan (and later Vega in some regions), is a Spanish nobleman, a skilled ninja, and a narcissistic psychopath obsessed with beauty. He believes himself to be the epitome of beauty and seeks to destroy anything he deems ugly. His masked face, clawed glove, and elegant movements create a visually striking and unsettling character. The combination of ninja skills and matador flair makes him a unique and flamboyant fighter.
Beauty and Destruction
Vega’s motivations are driven by his extreme narcissism and his warped sense of aesthetics. He works as a Shadaloo assassin, reveling in the act of killing and seeing it as a way to cleanse the world of ugliness. His vanity and psychopathic tendencies make him a truly menacing villain, obsessed with his own reflection and disdainful of everyone else.
Claws and Acrobatics
Vega is the only character in the original Street Fighter II roster to use a weapon – a three-bladed claw. His fighting style combines ninja agility with acrobatic movements and claw-based attacks. His signature Rolling Crystal Flash and Flying Barcelona Attack showcase his speed and aerial prowess. His graceful yet deadly fighting style, combined with his unique weapon, makes him a flashy and unpredictable opponent, capable of overwhelming enemies with speed and precision.
Sagat
Sagat, the Muay Thai Emperor, a towering and formidable boss character in Street Fighter 2
The Emperor of Muay Thai
Sagat is a towering Muay Thai master and a former final boss in the original Street Fighter. He is known as the “Emperor of Muay Thai,” a testament to his incredible skill and power. His large scar across his chest is a constant reminder of his defeat by Ryu, fueling his rivalry and desire for revenge (later evolving into respect). His eyepatch and imposing physique add to his intimidating presence as a seasoned and powerful fighter.
Pride and Rivalry
Sagat’s primary motivation is to regain his former glory and prove himself to be the strongest fighter in the world. His rivalry with Ryu is a central aspect of his character, driving him to constantly improve and seek a rematch. Over time, his rivalry evolves from pure animosity to a grudging respect for Ryu’s skill and dedication. He represents the pride and determination of a champion seeking to reclaim his title.
Tiger Shots and Muay Thai Might
Sagat’s fighting style is based on Muay Thai, utilizing powerful kicks, knees, and elbows. His signature Tiger Shot, a high and low projectile, and Tiger Uppercut are iconic moves. His height and reach give him a significant advantage, allowing him to control space and punish opponents from a distance. His powerful strikes and projectile attacks make him a formidable opponent, capable of overwhelming enemies with raw power and strategic zoning.
M. Bison
M. Bison, the ultimate villain of Street Fighter 2, with his Psycho Power and menacing presence
The Supreme Dictator
M. Bison, known as Vega in Japan (and M. Bison in some regions), is the main antagonist of Street Fighter II and the leader of the criminal organization Shadaloo. He is a ruthless dictator with immense Psycho Power, a dark energy that grants him superhuman abilities. His imposing uniform, cape, and menacing grin solidify his image as the ultimate villain of the Street Fighter universe.
World Domination and Psycho Power
Bison’s motivations are simple: world domination through fear and power. He seeks to control the world using Shadaloo and his Psycho Power. His ambition is limitless, and he is willing to sacrifice anything and anyone to achieve his goals. He represents pure evil and a lust for power, serving as the ultimate antagonist against the heroic fighters of the game.
Psycho Crusher and Dictator Domination
M. Bison’s fighting style is fueled by his Psycho Power. His signature Psycho Crusher, a charging energy attack, and Head Stomp are iconic moves. His Psycho Power grants him flight, telekinesis, and energy-based attacks, making him a formidable and unpredictable opponent. His aggressive and dominating fighting style, combined with his supernatural abilities, makes him a challenging final boss and a powerful force to be reckoned with.
The cast of Street Fighter II is more than just a collection of fighters; they are iconic characters with rich backstories, diverse fighting styles, and enduring appeal. These World Warriors laid the foundation for the entire Street Fighter franchise and continue to captivate players decades later. Whether you’re drawn to Ryu’s disciplined path, Chun-Li’s unwavering justice, or Zangief’s raw power, there’s a character in Street Fighter II for everyone to connect with and enjoy.
