Street Fighter V Review

Street Fighter V, developed and published by Capcom, launched on the PlayStation 4 (PS4) in 2016 as the latest mainline entry in the legendary fighting game series. While its initial release was controversial due to a lack of content, SFV PS4 has evolved significantly over years of updates, ultimately becoming a highly refined and competitive title that remains a cornerstone of the Fighting Game Community (FGC). This Street Fighter V PS4 review explores its journey and impact.

Gameplay: The V-System and Competitive Depth

At its core, Street Fighter V delivers the precise, 2D-plane combat that fans expect, emphasizing footsies, spacing, and punishing mistakes. The game’s most significant innovation is the “V-System,” which adds a new layer of strategy. Each character has a unique V-Skill (a special ability), a V-Trigger (a powerful, temporary buff or attack that consumes a V-Gauge), and a V-Reversal (a defensive counter-attack). Mastering these mechanics is crucial for high-level play.

The character roster has grown immensely since launch, featuring iconic fighters like Ryu, Chun-Li, Ken, and M. Bison, alongside exciting newcomers. Each character feels distinct, offering diverse playstyles. The PS4 version consistently runs at a smooth 60 frames per second, essential for the precise timing required in a competitive fighting game. The netcode, while initially rocky, improved over time, providing a more stable online multiplayer experience.

• Innovative V-System (V-Skill, V-Trigger, V-Reversal)
• Diverse and ever-expanding character roster
• Emphasis on footsies, spacing, and fundamental fighting game mechanics
• Smooth 60 FPS performance on PS4
• Refined online multiplayer experience (post-patches)

Story and Modes: A Content Evolution

Upon release, Street Fighter V was heavily criticized for its sparse single-player content. However, Capcom addressed this with significant free updates. The “A Shadow Falls” Cinematic Story Mode was added, offering a surprisingly robust and engaging narrative that tied together the various character arcs.

Additional modes like Survival, Trials, and an extensive Training Mode provide plenty of ways to hone skills and unlock collectibles. While it took time, the game eventually offered a comprehensive package for both casual and competitive players, especially with the later Arcade Edition and Champion Edition releases.

Graphics and Sound: Stylized Visuals and Iconic Audio

Visually, Street Fighter V on the PS4 boasts a vibrant and highly stylized art style that perfectly captures the essence of the franchise. Character models are expressive, with exaggerated animations that make every hit feel impactful. The stages are detailed and dynamic, featuring subtle background animations that add to the atmosphere.

The sound design is excellent, with satisfying impact sounds for hits, iconic special move audio cues, and a dynamic soundtrack that gets the adrenaline pumping. The voice acting for the diverse cast is generally strong, adding personality to each fighter.

Legacy: A Competitive Powerhouse

Despite its rocky launch, Street Fighter V evolved into a highly successful and influential competitive fighting game. It became a staple of the esports scene, with its deep mechanics and constant balance updates fostering a thriving competitive environment. It remains a definitive classic fighting game of the PS4 era.

Is Street Fighter V on PS4 Worth Playing Today?

Absolutely. For fans of fighting games, Street Fighter V on PS4 (especially the Champion Edition, which includes all content) is a must-play. Its innovative V-System, vast character roster, and refined gameplay mechanics offer countless hours of challenging and rewarding combat. Whether you’re a casual player looking to experience the story or a seasoned veteran aiming for competitive glory, SFV delivers a powerful and enduring gaming masterpiece on the PlayStation 4.