Sega’s trailblazing fighter franchise is officially fighting once more and Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown is approaching faster than expected. The return of Akira Yuki and other Virtua Fighter characters was teased during a PlayStation store leak, and though Sega hadn’t confirmed the fighting game or its PS4 exclusivity, fans were wrapping their fists to prepare for the epic fighting showdown soon to come. Fans no longer have to wonder what Sega has in store because the reveal trailer unveiled the action-packed remake of Virtua Fighter 5 and the game’s release date is just around the corner.
Virtua Fighter was released three decades ago it’s had a lasting effect on the evolution of fighting games and the gaming industry as a whole. Originating as an arcade game and later released on consoles, Virtua Fighter has made a massive impact, influencing the medium of gaming through impressive visuals and strong female characters. Tomb Raider’s Lara Croft was inspired by Virtua Fighter, as well as countless fighting games made possible by the wild success of one of the original beasts of the genre. Now, fans can experience the historic franchise once again in all of its glory.
Revealed by IGN, Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown is a PlayStation 4 exclusive bringing updated graphics and a new engine filled with plenty of enhanced features for fighter fans to explore. Though the gameplay will remain intact from its original 2006 release, Virtua Fighter 5 will get an online mode, better graphics, re-envisioned background music, a new opening cinematic, and plenty more.
The trailer for Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown not only showcases the franchise’s legacy but demonstrates the improvement on the past that the remake delivers. This new installment might reinstate Sega as a premier esports publisher. The Virtua Fighter 5 remake will have a new user interface, lighting, and shader improvements, and will allow players to spectate online matches while it commences. Tournament fans will also get plenty of online action and can show off their skills online in public or private lobbies supporting up to 16 players. There will also be communications tools like stamps so players can let their opponents know they mean business.
Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown is arriving next week on June 1. From sporting a huge question mark over its head to a surprise announcement and release date, the game has come a long way in a very short time. Now Virtua Fighter fans can rest assured that Sega has their backs, giving the gift of nostalgia and the ability to show off their most epic fighting moves.
Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown will arrive June 1 on PlayStation 4.
Source: IGN