For fans of arcade fighting games, the Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection is a trove of classic combat and colorful characters. Recently launched, this collection revitalizes seven beloved games, presenting them on modern gaming systems with an array of contemporary enhancements that aim to attract both veterans and newcomers.
The heart of the collection includes all six titles from the original Marvel vs. Capcom series, starting from "X-Men: Children of the Atom" to "Marvel vs. Capcom 2." Additionally, Capcom surprised fans by also incorporating "The Punisher"—a beat 'em up arcade game—into this lineup.
This collection isn't just about playing these games; it also serves as a celebration of their legacy. This is evident in the dual availability of both U.S. and Japanese versions of each game, the inclusion of a quick-save feature, and the ability to toggle secret characters on or off, enhancing customization for players.
One of the collection's most appealing features is the museum mode, a curated selection of historic Capcom and Marvel artifacts. This includes music tracks, concept art, and promotional material, which provide an in-depth look at the development and cultural impact of these games. The inclusion of detailed design sketches and alternative art offers enthusiasts a behind-the-scenes glimpse, making this mode a highlight for those interested in game design and history.
However, the collection isn't without its issues. A baffling choice limits players to a single quick save for all seven games. Additionally, while the games have been brought to current standards, certain beloved features from original versions, like the ability to select three of the same character from the Dreamcast versions of the games, have not been adopted.
The standout title in this collection is undoubtedly "Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes." Renowned for its chaotic gameplay and rich, jazzy soundtrack, it remains a pillar of the fighting game community. Though notoriously unbalanced, the game captures the essence of what makes arcade fighters enduringly appealing: sheer, over-the-top fun.
Other games in the collection, such as "X-Men vs. Street Fighter" and "Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter," while similar, have nuanced differences in mechanics and character rosters that set them apart. Each game in this duo offers a unique twist on the formula, though some fans may have a preference for one over the other based on character availability and game mechanics.
On the other hand, "X-Men: Children of the Atom" and "Marvel Super Heroes" stand out by still offering fast-paced action but in a one-on-one fighting format. These titles showcase the roots of what would evolve into the later, more frenetic entries in the series. "Marvel Super Heroes" introduces the use of Infinity Gems, providing strategic power-ups during battles and adding an additional layer of depth to the combat.
Additionally, "The Punisher" offers a delightful deviation as a side-scrolling beat 'em up. Players can choose between Frank Castle or Nick Fury, plowing through hordes of enemies using an array of weapons and brutal moves. It’s a straightforward but enjoyable diversion within the bundle.
"Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes" rounds out the collection with a beloved system that brings various characters from both universes into play as assists, adding considerable depth and variety to battles.
Despite its many positives, the collection does have technical issues, notably with "Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes," where some frame rate drops have been reported on the PS5 version. These are not game-breaking but are noticeable given the age and expected performance of the game. It is hoped these will be addressed in future updates.
As for online play capabilities, the collection extends the life of these games by allowing players to challenge others across the globe. Although testing has been limited due to low online player populations, initial impressions suggest that the netcode performs adequately, with some latency issues apparent when playing against opponents in distant locations.
Overall, the Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection does an admirable job of preserving the feel and excitement of these classic arcade titles while updating them for a new generation. By taking players on a nostalgic ride filled with high-octane battles and iconic characters, it stands as a testament to the lasting appeal and influence of these pioneering games in the fighting genre.
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