Capcom Fighting Collection 2: A Nostalgic Round Two
Capcom’s back in the ring with Capcom Fighting Collection 2, a follow-up to the original collection that aims to please dedicated fighting game fans. While the first collection leaned heavily on the Darkstalkers series, this installment focuses on more niche titles, offering a deeper dive into Capcom’s arcade fighting game history. This means some lesser-known gems get their time to shine.
The Roster: Obscurity and Refinement
The core of any fighting game collection is, of course, the games themselves. Capcom Fighting Collection 2 features: Hyper Street Fighter Alpha, Super Gem Fighter Mini Mix, Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo, Darkstalkers 3, Vampire Savior 2, Vampire Hunter 2, Red Earth, Cyberbots: Full Metal Madness, and Pocket Fighter. The Vampire Savior entries are a welcome inclusion for fans of the series, offering some nuanced variations on the gameplay. Red Earth stands out as a unique, RPG-inspired fighting game that never made it to home consoles, adding a truly rare piece to the collection.
However, the focus on more obscure titles might be a double-edged sword. While hardcore fighting game enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to explore these games, the casual player may find them less immediately engaging than the more mainstream Street Fighter offerings. The steep learning curves and unique systems present in some of these titles require significant investment to truly master.
Features: More Than Just ROMs
Fortunately, Capcom hasn’t simply dumped ROMs onto a disc. Each game benefits from rollback netcode, ensuring smoother online play, which is crucial for a collection of fighting games. A training mode is included for each title, allowing players to practice combos and learn the intricacies of each character. Furthermore, a robust museum section packed with concept art, character designs, and music provides a fascinating look behind the scenes of these classic games.
The online lobbies are a welcome addition, providing a place to connect with other players and test your skills. Leaderboards add a competitive edge, encouraging players to strive for mastery. These modern enhancements significantly improve the overall experience compared to simply emulating the games on a computer.
Final Verdict: For the Dedicated Fighter
Capcom Fighting Collection 2 is a love letter to the dedicated fighting game fan. While the game selection leans towards the obscure, the inclusion of rollback netcode, training modes, and a comprehensive museum elevates the collection beyond a simple compilation of ROMs. Casual players might find the learning curve steep, but for those willing to invest the time, Capcom Fighting Collection 2 offers a valuable glimpse into a fascinating corner of Capcom’s arcade legacy. It’s a niche product, but one that caters well to its target audience.