Super Street Fighter IV 3D Edition is a fighting video game in the popular Street Fighter Franchise. This mobile and 3D version of Street Fighter is published and developed by Capcom for the Nintendo 3DS.
Expectations
Based on all of the previews and hype Super Street Fighter IV 3D Edition is considered the best launch game for Nintendo’s new 3D Handheld. It has online and local multiplayer, Street Pass integration, and excellent 3D graphics. All of the other 3DS launch titles feel rushed and lack features and polish. To be fair Capcom had an easier job than the other developers because SSFIV already exists on other platforms (I don’t want to hear your excuses Madden 11 3DS). I expected a simple port but there are some exciting new features that separate the 3DS version from its console brothers.
First Impressions
As my first 3DS title this game really needed to win me over. After spending some time with the 3D depth slider I found my sweet spot and the 3D effects were amazing. Even when I switch off the 3D the framerate remains smooth and the graphics are gorgeous. The interface and game modes are pretty much the same as the consoles. Since I am not accustomed to having multiple screens I spent about a half hour looking for the option to change my online picture and quote. I felt like a complete moron when I realized it was on the touch pad screen the entire time.
The 3DS version of SSFIV makes it very easy for anyone to get into. In addition to the standard (Pro) button configuration they offer a new button configuration called Lite. With Lite you can set any one of your special moves (including Supers and Ultras) to 4 buttons on the touchpad as well as any of the face and shoulder buttons.
The simpler controls are sure to cause controversy but for a handheld fighter it makes a lot of sense. While I could easily pull off the same moves using the Pro controls the handheld physically moves all over the place. With the Lite configuration I can pull off all of the same moves with the flick of a button. A handheld game needs to be handled differently than a console title mainly because going crazy with the controls causes movement on the screen whereas a TV always remains still. Anything a developer can do help streamline the controls on a mobile platform without sacrificing gameplay is quite a feat and in this case, done perfectly.
Considering this is a 3D title Capcom included a new 3D mode. With this mode you actually play with an over the shoulder perspective. This might sound strange for what is essentially a 2D fighter (in a 3D world) but it really works. The new view throws me off a bit but the moves are still pulled off in the same way and in the same direction. I won’t be replacing the classic view permanently but it should be fun for a few games here and there.
SSFIV also makes use of the Street Pass feature. If you happen to walk past another 3DS owner with SSFIV a simulated battle will automatically take place. The next time you start the game you have the opportunity to watch this battle and gain loot from defeating your enemies. When I originally read this I thought I would be watching a fully simulated match. After seeing this in action I quickly realized it's two figurines fighting, let me repeat, it's two figurines fighting. It would be as if I took two action figures and banged them together making fighting sounds. Actually let me take that back, that would be better.
While I was a little disappointed about this so called “simulated battle” the overall feature is still cool. You have the option of picking 5 fighters (chosen through unlockable figurines) and configuring each character’s Power, Defense, and Speed. These 5 fighters will fight 5 opponents and whomever wins the most rounds wins the game. It took me weeks to randomly find a 3DS player and I got destroyed in my first battle. I have a recently set up a new team and I’m looking forward to face another player.
Final Verdict
The Lite controls have really grown on me. You still require some knowledge and experience with Street Fighter to win online games. While it’s cool that I can have a better game with a complete newbie, I can still beat them fairly easily. On the flip side it’s nice to know I have a fighting chance against more experienced players. Trust me when I say simpler controls doesn’t mean diddly squat to an experienced player, if they are good you will get your ass kicked.
SSFIV 3DS also features Download Play. With Download Play I can play with another 3DS owner even if they don’t have the game. The only restriction is the person who doesn’t have the game has to pick Ryu.
I am pleasantly surprised with the 3DS version of Super Street Fighter IV. I expected a plain Jane port for an existing and well polished fighting game. What I did not expect was a new 3D fighting view, cool (although slightly disappointing) street pass integration, and great controls for both the novice and expert gamer. Capcom took a console game and figured out the formula to fit it on a mobile platform while retaining the fun of the original game. If you’re about to purchase a 3DS make sure you pick up Super Street Fighter IV 3D Edition, it is the must have 3DS launch title.
Review is a segment about my opinion on things. I like things, and you like things too. Before you run off and buy something, you should check out my review. Chances are if I like it, it’s probably awesome.
