June is going to be a good month for Virtua Fighter fans, mainly because Sega is going to releasing Virtual Fighter 5 Final Showdown as a downloadable title for Xbox Live Arcade and Playstation Network. This title is based on the latest arcade version that boasts a few console specific features that seem aim to entice new and old fans alike.
WHADDYA GET?
Well, a Sega AM2 developed Virtua Fighter is what you get! Actually you get the arcade version that is currently out in Japan, Version “A”. Along with the 17 character roster that was included in VF 5, it also adds 2 new characters to the mix. And when I say new, I mean they are new to Virtua Fighter 5. Sumo wrestler/diaper enthusiast Taka-Arashi first appeared in Virtua Fighter 3 and is making his return here. The other newcomer here is Jean Kujo, who actually debuted in the Japan arcade only Virtua Fighter 5R. The fighting system itself has been tweaked and simplified here, which is good or bad depending on your view. The robust and detailed training mode that is available will help newer players develop their skills, making it easier for those who find Virtua Fighter’s emphasis on technical play less daunting, and more approachable. There will also be an 8 player Online Room Match Mode, a match record feature to replay, save, and upload fights, and Leaderboards that will rank you with the rest of the world.
HOW MUCH IS IT?
The game itself will cost you $14.99 for PSN and 1,200 Microsoft Points for XBLA.
You will be able to dress your fighters from head to toe with day 1 DLC packs of character customization packs being available for purchase. Each character will have 600-950 custom items that you can fit your character with. 2 more packs will also be available on launch day, with the first offering nine characters worth of content, and the second boasting 10 characters worth of content. Pricing points are below.
Individual Packs: $4.99 for PSN and 400 Microsoft Points for XBLA
Pack One and Two: $14.99 on PSN and 1,200 Microsoft Points each on XBLA.
WHEN CAN I GET MY PAWS ON THIS?
VF 5 Final Showdown will be available to PSN users June 5 and XBLA June 6th 2012. No announcement has been made for PC users, but hopefully that is at least in the works.
