Capcom Fighting Collection 2: A Nostalgic Punch to the Past

Relive the arcade glory days, one combo at a time

Launch Day Larry

Ah, Capcom Fighting Collection 2, where nostalgia meets the modern era in a flurry of pixelated punches and kicks. This collection is like a time machine for your thumbs, whisking you back to the days when arcades were the social hubs of gaming. But does it pack enough punch to keep both old-school fans and new players engaged? Let’s dive in and find out.

Gameplay: A Combo of Classics and Quirks

The gameplay in Capcom Fighting Collection 2 is a delightful blend of accessibility and depth, making it a welcoming arena for both newcomers and seasoned fighters. The controls are as smooth as a freshly waxed arcade floor, allowing for satisfying combo execution and strategic exploration. Whether you’re casually brawling with friends or diving into competitive play, the collection captures that classic arcade vibe that keeps you coming back for more.

Online gameplay is a standout feature, praised for its smoothness and reliability. The inclusion of rollback netcode ensures that your online matches are as seamless as possible, though cross-region matchmaking can sometimes feel like a game of “Will it lag?” roulette. The collection’s variety is impressive, featuring eight hard-to-find games in both English and Japanese versions, broadening its appeal.

However, the collection isn’t without its quirks. The absence of certain features, like Ism/Groove-based scoring from Street Fighter Alpha 3, and the lack of crossplay, are notable drawbacks. Plus, the arcade versions lack the console-specific features that some players fondly remember, like character creation and custom colors. It’s like being handed a delicious cake but told you can’t have the icing.

Graphics: A Mixed Bag of Nostalgia and Lag

Visually, Capcom Fighting Collection 2 is a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, the vibrant and lively backgrounds evoke a classic arcade vibe that many players find engaging and nostalgic. The character designs are full of personality, adding to the game’s charm and appeal. It’s like stepping into a time capsule where the graphics bring back fond memories of classic games.

However, technical issues do rear their ugly heads. Slowdown and lag during matches, particularly in borderless window mode, can detract from the visual experience. The disparity between the quality of backgrounds and character sprites is noticeable, with the latter sometimes feeling like they missed the memo on modern standards. And while the graphics are generally well-received on desktops, performance issues on the Steam Deck highlight inconsistencies across platforms.

Story: A Punchline Without the Setup

When it comes to story, Capcom Fighting Collection 2 is more about the experience than a structured plot. The narrative elements are minimal, with games like Power Stone 2 offering a simple “Fight for your freedom” premise. Meanwhile, Capcom vs. SNK 2 provides a tournament setting that adds a bit of excitement and anticipation, but don’t expect a deep dive into character backstories or plot twists.

The collection’s crossover appeal allows for dream matchups between iconic characters, creating a narrative-like experience through the battles themselves. However, the lack of story modes and offline content means that those seeking a story-driven experience might feel like they’re missing the punchline to a joke that never quite lands.

Final Verdict

Capcom Fighting Collection 2 is a solid package for fans of classic fighting games, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane with a few modern twists. While the gameplay and online features shine, the collection’s technical limitations and lack of certain features may leave some players wanting more. It’s a love letter to the arcade era, but one that could use a bit more polish and a few extra pages.

Score: 7/10