Capcom’s Street Fighter 6 has achieved something truly remarkable. They’ve not only crafted a critically acclaimed fighting game that impressively balances innovation with a deep respect for its legacy, but they’ve also seamlessly integrated iconic characters from their 90s rival, SNK. The inclusion of these SNK fighters is so well-executed, it’s tempting to argue they shine even brighter in Street Fighter 6 than in their original games. While die-hard SNK enthusiasts might vehemently defend the definitive versions of Terry Bogard and Mai Shiranui in classics like Real Bout Fatal Fury, for a long-time, casual observer of both franchises, Street Fighter 6’s rendition of these characters is undeniably brilliant.
Having spent around 45 minutes with Mai Shiranui prior to her official release on February 5th at a Capcom preview event, the experience was nothing short of exhilarating. Despite some rustiness from a break since Street Fighter 6’s initial launch, Mai felt exceptionally powerful and intuitive to play. While in-depth frame data analysis is best left to experts like Maximilian Dood, my anecdotal experience in several matches against mid-level CPUs suggests Mai is a formidable addition to the roster. That is until I encountered another Mai – who promptly demonstrated a superior command of the character.
You may like
To give you a glimpse beyond my amateur play, footage of a CPU battle featuring level 7 Mai versus level 7 Mai, the highest CPU level available for recording, is included. Additionally, you can see Mai facing off against Terry Bogard, another SNK legend brought into the Street Fighter universe.
This isn’t the first time Capcom has handled these beloved SNK characters. Nearly 25 years ago, Capcom vs. SNK 2 set the gold standard for crossover fighting games. It was a landmark title, boasting a massive character roster, diverse fighting systems altering character playstyles, and a depth that allowed for both professional-level intricacies and casual button-mashing enjoyment. Now, a new generation of Street Fighter developers, who grew up immersed in the fighting game culture that Capcom vs. SNK 2 represented a pinnacle of, are at the helm. Terry and Mai in Street Fighter 6 serve as compelling evidence of their capability to revitalize the crossover fighting genre.
The history between Capcom and SNK is rooted in intense competition within the arcade industry’s golden age. Their characters clashing was a significant event. Since then, SNK has undergone transformations, and the gaming landscape has shifted towards consoles and PC with online multiplayer. Fighting games now occupy a niche yet vibrant space within the broader industry. Instead of direct rivalry, a collaborative spirit seems to benefit both Capcom and SNK. Growing the overall fighting game community is a win for everyone.
What stands out most in Capcom’s approach to integrating these SNK icons into Street Fighter 6 is their commitment to authenticity. Decades of source material were meticulously studied to ensure Terry and Mai feel true to their origins. This dedication has resulted in their seamless incorporation into the Street Fighter 6 roster, as if they were always meant to be there. In an era where “guest characters” often feel like uninspired marketing ploys, this achievement is genuinely remarkable.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate previously achieved the impossible by assembling a massive roster of characters without feeling creatively bankrupt. Its “Everyone is here” tagline was the culmination of years of building prestige. However, the current trend of metaverse obsession and brand integration in gaming often leads to diluted game identities, driven by short-term gains or developer nostalgia.
The proliferation of brands in multiplayer games, especially post-Fortnite, can feel overwhelming. Many shooters quickly devolve into brand showcases with outlandish skins. Mortal Kombat’s inclusion of numerous movie characters in recent installments risks overshadowing its core fighting game identity, feeling more like a marketing strategy than a genuine effort to enhance gameplay. The line between exciting crossover and brand overload is blurred when characters like Ghostface from Scream are pitted against immortal gods and time witches.
Few developers have demonstrated the care and restraint needed for successful crossovers. However, unless Capcom deviates from their current path with Street Fighter 6 by introducing incongruous guest characters, they are poised to lead the charge in revitalizing the crossover fighter genre and setting a new standard for others to follow, truly understanding the essence of “Street Fighter Vs Snk” legacy.
