The Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is a phenomenal compilation for fans of the series and newcomers alike. Its release was a pleasant surprise, especially considering the mixed reception of previous entries. This review covers experiences across Steam Deck, PS5, and Nintendo Switch, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses.
Game Lineup:
The collection boasts seven classic titles: X-Men: Children of the Atom, Marvel Super Heroes, X-Men vs. Street Fighter, Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter, Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes, Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes, and The Punisher (a beat 'em up, not a fighter). All are based on arcade versions, ensuring complete feature sets. English and Japanese versions are included, a welcome addition for fans.
Extensive playtime across multiple platforms reveals a highly enjoyable experience, particularly with Marvel vs. Capcom 2, justifying the purchase price multiple times over. While lacking expertise in these specific games, the sheer fun factor is undeniable.
New Features and Enhancements:
The user interface mirrors Capcom Fighting Collection, though it unfortunately inherits some of that collection's shortcomings. Key additions include online and local multiplayer, Switch wireless support, rollback netcode, a comprehensive training mode with hitbox displays, customizable game options, a crucial white flash reduction setting, diverse display options, and several wallpaper choices. A helpful one-button super move option caters to newcomers.
Museum and Gallery:
A rich museum and gallery showcase over 200 soundtrack tracks and 500 pieces of artwork, some previously unreleased. While a valuable addition, Japanese text in sketches and documents remains untranslated. The inclusion of the soundtracks is a significant win, hopefully paving the way for future vinyl or streaming releases.
The official availability of these soundtracks is a major highlight. A vinyl or streaming release would be a fantastic next step.
Online Multiplayer Experience:
The online experience, utilizing rollback netcode, is comparable to Capcom Fighting Collection on Steam, significantly surpassing Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection. Network settings allow for microphone/voice chat adjustments, input delay, and connection strength (PC only; Switch lacks connection strength). Matchmaking supports casual and ranked matches, along with leaderboards and a High Score Challenge mode. The persistent cursor memory during rematches is a small but appreciated touch.
Testing across various platforms confirms smooth, lag-free online play, even across significant distances.
The convenience of retaining cursor selections between matches enhances the overall online experience.
Issues and Shortcomings:
The most significant drawback is the single, collection-wide save state, a carryover from Capcom Fighting Collection. Another minor inconvenience is the lack of universal settings for visual filters and light reduction.
Platform-Specific Notes:
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Steam Deck: Runs flawlessly, achieving 720p handheld and up to 4K docked. 16:10 support is absent.
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Nintendo Switch: Visually acceptable, but load times are significantly slower than on other platforms. Connection strength options are also missing. Local wireless is a plus.
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PS5: Runs via backward compatibility, looking excellent. Faster loading on an SSD is recommended. The lack of native PS5 support means missed opportunities for features like Activity Cards.
Overall:
Despite minor flaws, Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is a superb compilation, excelling in extras and online play. The single save state is a notable disappointment. A strong recommendation, especially given the enjoyable experience it provides.
Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics Steam Deck Review Score: 4.5/5
