DESCRIPTION

The fighting game series' first true sequel in three console generations, Street Fighter IV re-creates the classic characters, settings, and time-tested 2D fighting mechanics, at resolutions and frame rates that make use of the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 potential. Favorite characters and backdrops, once depicted in 16-bit pixels, appear as colorful, hand-drawn illustrations brought to life in full, fluid 3D. The game introduces a slew of new special attacks, but the series' basic moves are at the heart of the six-button control scheme. A challenging new Focus Attack system can allow a low-health fighter to absorb an attack and then unleash a powerful counterattack, strong enough to grab an unexpected victory with a last-moment turnaround.

Street Fighter IV follows Street Fighter II in the series narrative, taking place before the events of Street Fighter III. Over two dozen characters are available for play, including core heroes and villains from Street Fighter II such as Ryu, Ken, Chun-li, and M. Bison. There are also series newcomers, such as Gouken, the trainer of Ryu and Ken; C. Viper, a government agent with moves as tight as her uniform; and the weapons master Seth, who can use the special moves of other characters. Home versions of Street Fighter IV also feature characters not in the arcade version of the game, including Fie Long, Dan, Gen, and Cammy, who won the most fan votes in an online poll, prior to the game's U.S. release. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide