Street Fighter, a legendary fighting game franchise, has introduced its new World Tour mode, and fans have been eager to see if it lives up to the hype. As someone who has never excelled at Street Fighter, my curiosity was piqued by the new trailers showcasing a mode that resembled Tekken Force. Despite my lack of skill in the game I decided to give it a try, however, I must admit my experience didn’t blow me away.
One aspect that stands out positively is the character creation feature. Players have the freedom to design their own unique fighters, allowing for personalisation and creativity. Additionally, the inclusion of an easy button mode and the ability to train under different classic fighters to learn their moves add a layer of accessibility for newcomers to the franchise.
Unfortunately, the lack of voice acting in the mode is a disappointment. While this may not affect gameplay directly, voice acting adds depth and immersion to the overall experience. The absence of this feature feels like a missed opportunity to enhance the storytelling and make the mode more engaging.
Another point to consider is the modern control scheme, which some players may find overly simplified. Street Fighter has always been known for its intricate and demanding controls, requiring precise inputs and execution. The modern controls in the World Tour mode make the game more accessible but they may also alienate hardcore fans who appreciate the complexity of the classic control scheme. It is a strange middle ground that may not fully satisfy either group.
When it comes to open-world beat ’em up games, it can be challenging to capture the essence of historical franchises like Street Fighter. The core ingredients are simple: two fighters face off against each other, and once the battle is over, you move on to the next. While the World Tour mode attempts to introduce an open-world element, it fails to fully deliver on the promise of a captivating beat ’em up experience. A prime example of a successful implementation of this style can be seen in the Mortal Kombat series on the original Xbox.
Interestingly, the World Tour mode features mini-games, such as making pizza and punching boards. These diversions can provide a break from the intense battles and offer some light-hearted fun. While they may not be the highlight of the mode, they add a bit of variety to the overall gameplay experience.
In conclusion, Street Fighter’s new World Tour mode has its merits but falls short in some key areas. The character creation feature and accessible gameplay options make it appealing to newcomers and casual players. However, the absence of voice acting and the simplified control scheme may leave long-time fans feeling somewhat dissatisfied. The open-world beat ’em up element also fails to capture the excitement found in other games within the genre. Ultimately, while the World Tour mode has its moments, it may not live up to the expectations set by its trailers and the reputation of the Street Fighter franchise.
Written by Javier.
Edited by Alexx.