The Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection breathes new life into a beloved franchise, offering a robust and surprisingly relevant compilation of classic arcade fighters. After the disappointment of Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite and the delisting of Marvel vs. Capcom 2, this collection rekindles hope for the series’ future.
This collection isn’t just a simple repackaging; it’s a celebration of Capcom’s fighting game legacy. From X-Men: Children of the Atom to Marvel vs. Capcom 2, each title retains its unique charm and engaging gameplay. Even the unexpected inclusion of the 1993 beat ’em up The Punisher offers a fun, retro brawler experience.
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The addition of online play with rollback netcode is a significant upgrade. While pre-release testing presented some matchmaking challenges, the online experience itself was smooth and lag-free, mimicking the feel of local multiplayer. This commitment to online functionality enhances the collection’s longevity and appeal.
Beyond online battles, the inclusion of a practice mode is a welcome feature. It caters to both seasoned veterans looking to refine their skills and newcomers eager to learn the intricacies of each game’s mechanics. This addition fosters a more inclusive environment, encouraging players of all skill levels to engage with these classic titles.
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One of the collection’s highlights is its wealth of bonus content. Unlike other compilations with lackluster extras, Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection boasts a treasure trove of concept art, design documents, and other behind-the-scenes materials. This rare glimpse into Capcom’s development process during the 90s is a fascinating addition for fans and gaming history enthusiasts.
The collection does have a minor drawback. The iterative nature of the games, leading up to the superior Marvel vs. Capcom 2, might make revisiting earlier titles feel somewhat dated. However, their inclusion is valuable for preservation purposes and offers a comprehensive overview of the franchise’s evolution.
The Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection successfully delivers on its premise. The games are well-preserved, the online functionality is robust, and the bonus content is a delightful surprise. It’s both a playable piece of gaming history and a fun multiplayer experience, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers alike. This collection is a worthy investment and hopefully sets the stage for a brand new entry in the series.
In conclusion, the Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection is a must-have for fighting game fans and a testament to the enduring appeal of these classic titles. The combination of nostalgic gameplay, modern online features, and rich bonus content creates a compelling package that revitalizes the Marvel vs. Capcom franchise.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics released on September 12th for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC. A PS4 review copy was provided by Capcom.
