Street Fighter 6

The World Tour mode in Street Fighter 6 has been praised by several critics for its ambitious attempt to blend RPG elements with the fighting game genre, offering a fresh and engaging single-player experience. TheGamer highlighted its "self-insert fanfic vibes" and the emotional investment in fighter characters, while GameSpot called it a "spreading story mode with RPG elements" that provides a unique and fun adventure. IGN Italia noted its "rich single-player experience" despite "absurd narrative elements," and Comicbook.com lauded its "ambitious" design, including animated cutscenes and cross-franchise references, which add a sense of scale and depth. TheXboxHub celebrated it as a "fantastic addition" that plays like a "full-blown RPG" with wacky side quests, marking it as a groundbreaking effort for a fighting game. These reviews emphasize the mode’s potential to innovate and its appeal to both newcomers and fans seeking a narrative-driven experience. However, many critics found the story mode lacking in depth and coherence, with several pointing to its simplistic plot and repetitive structure. IGN Brasil and Game Revolution criticized the narrative as "rasa" (shallow) and "poorly constructed," respectively, with the latter calling the protagonist "mute" and the plot "predictable." Atomix and BaziCenter described the mode as "flat," "unengaging," and "basic," while Vandal and GRYOnline.pl noted a "boring main plot" and "poorly written" story. Player 2 and SECTOR.sk highlighted its "lack of depth" and "simplistic" nature, with Jeuxvideo.com (multiple mentions) and Meristation agreeing that the narrative fails to deliver meaningful character growth or complexity. Even Guardian and Dexerto acknowledged its "serviceable" but "simplistic" mission design, suggesting the mode prioritizes gameplay over storytelling. Overall, the reception of Street Fighter 6’s story mode is mixed, with critics divided between its innovative RPG framework and its narrative shortcomings. While TheGamer, GameSpot, and Comicbook.com celebrated its ambition and character interactions, others like IGN Brasil and Game Revolution found it underdeveloped and unengaging. The consensus leans toward acknowledging the World Tour as a significant step forward for the franchise, offering a more immersive and accessible single-player experience, but many agree it falls short of delivering a compelling or layered story. TheXboxHub and The Loadout stood out as exceptions, praising its balance of humor and depth, while most reviewers felt the plot’s weaknesses overshadow its potential. Ultimately, the mode is seen as a bold experiment that, while enjoyable for its mechanics and charm, struggles to match the narrative sophistication of traditional RPGs or even other fighting games.

The gameplay of Street Fighter 6 has been widely praised by critics for its accessibility, depth, and innovation. Many reviewers highlighted the introduction of the Drive System, which adds strategic layers to combat through mechanics like Drive Impact and Drive Parries, enhancing both offensive and defensive options. The Modern and Classic control schemes cater to a broad audience, with GameMAG and TheXboxHub noting their role in lowering the entry barrier for newcomers while retaining complexity for veterans. The game’s diverse character roster with unique movesets, as mentioned by Press Start Australia and IGN Italia, and its robust tutorials and training modes (Guardian, GameSpot) further solidify its appeal. Additionally, the smooth 60fps performance (GamingTrend, Gamesurf) and polished netcode (Eurogamer Germany) ensure a responsive and enjoyable experience, while modes like World Tour and Battle Hub offer engaging content that blends traditional fighting with RPG elements (Worth Playing, Cultured Vultures). Critics like GameStar and TheGamer emphasized the balanced gameplay and high skill ceiling, making it a standout in the franchise’s evolution. Despite the overall positivity, some critiques pointed to minor flaws. Metro GameCentral criticized the shallow strategy elements and underdeveloped mechanics in certain modes, while GamingTrend noted performance issues in World Tour. The Joy-Con controls on Nintendo Switch 2 were seen as a limitation for serious players by Eurogamer Germany and SpazioGames, who felt they lacked the precision of a Pro Controller. Additionally, Vandal mentioned that some modes, like World Tour, felt anecdotal or less essential compared to the core combat. While these points are relatively minor, they reflect a few reviewers’ concerns about the game’s focus on accessibility potentially diluting its depth for purists. However, such criticisms were often tempered by acknowledgments of the game’s broader strengths, suggesting they are more about personal preference than systemic issues. The overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that Street Fighter 6 delivers a robust, engaging, and well-balanced gameplay experience. While some noted specific limitations—such as Joy-Con responsiveness or the anecdotal nature of certain modes—the vast majority celebrated its innovative mechanics, inclusive design, and commitment to both newcomers and veterans. Reviews from GameSkinny, Vandal, and IGN Japan emphasized the Drive System’s impact on combat dynamics, while GameSpot and Push Square praised its consistency and refinement. Even critics like Metro GameCentral, who raised concerns about strategy depth, acknowledged the game’s broader appeal. The combination of accessible controls, diverse modes, and polished core mechanics has positioned Street Fighter 6 as one of the franchise’s most compelling entries, with many calling it a benchmark for fighting games and a significant evolution of the series.

The majority of critics lauded Street Fighter 6’s graphics and visual design as a significant leap forward for the series, with many highlighting its vibrant, stylized art direction. Twinfinite praised the "sharp graphics mixed with splashes of color" that bring fights to life, while GameGrin described the game as having a "gorgeous art style" with "flashy, vibrant colors" that make battles feel like "abstract art come to life." The RE Engine’s capabilities were frequently noted, with Games.cz and Generación Xbox commending the "detailed character models" and "animated movie-quality" visuals, respectively. Character designs were a standout, with Gaming Age celebrating the "diverse and well-done" roster, including standout figures like Jamie and Marisa, and Vandal (PS5) emphasizing "fantastic animations" that elevate the series’ iconic aesthetic. The game’s "modern urban aesthetic" (GameMAG) and "neon-graffiti style" (Slant Magazine) were compared to Jet Set Radio, underscoring its creative and visually engaging approach. Even the World Tour mode, despite some criticisms, was noted for its "captivating" presentation by PCMag, and Checkpoint Gaming called it the "best-looking installment in the series" with dynamic backgrounds and detailed character work. However, several critics pointed out technical and platform-specific shortcomings. Eurogamer Germany (Nintendo Switch 2) and Eurogamer Germany (Xbox Series X) criticized the World Tour mode for "lower frame rates" and "subpar graphics," comparing it to a "lost PS4 game." GamingTrend (Switch 2) noted "harsh and washed-out lighting" in certain areas, while GameSpew (PS5) mentioned "underwhelming" visuals in World Tour and 30fps performance without a performance mode. Eurogamer Portugal (Switch 2) and Vandal (Switch 2) highlighted reduced detail and "visual degradation" in docked mode, though they acknowledged the portability benefits. Others, like Games.cz, pointed out that Street Fighter 6’s graphics fell short of Mortal Kombat 11, and INVEN (PC) and Everyeye.it (PC) noted minor issues like "texture loading" and "hair pixelation." Additionally, some critics, such as SpazioGames (Switch 2) and Vandal (PS5), observed that the World Tour mode’s NPC quality and visual fidelity were slightly downgraded compared to other modes, and PlaySense (PC) mentioned that the "lack of background depth" was compensated by the art style but still felt limiting. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus among critics is that Street Fighter 6’s graphics and visual design are a major strength, with the positives outweighing the negatives. While platform-specific issues and technical hiccups in certain modes (like World Tour) were noted, the game’s "sensational artistic style" (Vandal, PS5) and "rich color palette" (GameOver.gr) were widely celebrated. The RE Engine’s implementation, as highlighted by TechRadar Gaming and Meristation, showcased the series’ most detailed character models and environments to date, and the "unique street art-inspired" aesthetic (GRYOnline.pl, IGN Japan) set it apart from competitors. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Pocket-lint emphasized that the visuals "elevate the fighting experience," with even the "minor graphical ugliness" (Push Square) failing to detract from the game’s broader appeal. The majority of reviews, particularly from PS5 and PC platforms, underscored that Street Fighter 6 represents a visually impressive evolution, with its stylized presentation and technical polish making it a standout entry in the franchise.

The sound design and music of Street Fighter 6 have been widely praised for their energetic and immersive qualities, with many critics highlighting the game’s vibrant soundtrack and dynamic audio elements. Eurogamer Germany commended the high-quality music, noting the inclusion of a vinyl box set as a standout feature, while Gamers’ Temple emphasized the varied soundtrack that adapts to different game modes, such as urban vibes in the main menu and hip-hop during character selection. Reviews from Games.cz and SECTOR.sk lauded the "phenomenal musical score" and "upbeat tracks that enhance the gameplay experience," respectively. TheGamer and SpazioGames praised the "fist-pumping electronic rap music" and "catchy rap music" that align with the game’s stylish, high-octane atmosphere. Additionally, Shacknews highlighted the "impressive audio" with sound effects like Dee Jay’s sparkle and Zangief’s animations, which add weight and authenticity to combat. The inclusion of real-time eSports-style commentary, as noted by Daily Star and Guardian, further elevated the competitive feel, making fights feel dramatic and engaging. However, some critics expressed reservations about the soundtrack’s originality and nostalgic appeal. Meristation and Vandal pointed out that the original score lacked the memorability of classic Street Fighter themes, with the latter criticizing the "lack of memorable compositions" and comparing it unfavorably to past entries. Everyeye.it described new tracks as "generally forgettable," though they acknowledged a few standout themes. The Jimquisition missed the "catchy tunes of the past," while Merlin'in Kazanı found the World Tour music "reminiscent of older games" and "lacking excitement." Additionally, several reviewers noted limitations, such as Gamers’ Temple and Hobby Consolas pointing out that commentary and voice acting were only in English, and XboxEra mentioned inconsistencies in the visual style that may detract from the audio experience. These critiques suggest a divide between embracing the game’s modern direction and longing for the iconic melodies of earlier titles. Overall, the consensus leans toward appreciation for Street Fighter 6’s sound design and music as a bold, modern evolution of the franchise. While many critics, including Games.cz and Vgames, celebrated the high-quality, immersive audio that enhances combat and atmosphere, others like Meristation and Vandal felt it fell short of the nostalgia-driven appeal of previous games. The hip-hop and jazz influences, as highlighted by Jeuxvideo.com and Slant Magazine, were seen as fitting for the game’s street culture and neon-graffiti aesthetic, though not universally loved. The inclusion of real-time commentary and varied character-specific accents added to the competitive and stylistic flair, while some noted the need for more diverse musical content or updates. Despite mixed reactions, the majority of reviews underscored that the soundtrack and sound design significantly contribute to the game’s identity, balancing innovation with the franchise’s legacy.

The majority of critics highlight the voice acting in Street Fighter 6 as a positive and immersive element that enhances the game’s storytelling and character depth. Hobby Consolas praises the distinct accents and personalities brought to life through well-executed voice work, while Vgames and TrueGaming commend the high-quality line deliveries and the inclusion of commentary from notable figures in the fighting game community, which adds authenticity to matches. COGconnected notes that voice-overs in arcade mode effectively provide context, and Vandal appreciates the availability of English and Japanese voice tracks alongside Spanish subtitles, ensuring accessibility for a broader audience. IGN Japan and SpazioGames emphasize that character lines align with their personalities, contributing to the game’s overall immersion. Even Generación Xbox acknowledges the professional commentators as a source of excitement, though they point out the absence of subtitles as a limitation. These reviews collectively suggest that the voice acting is a thoughtful and impactful addition, particularly in cutscenes and competitive scenarios. However, some critics express reservations, particularly regarding the quality and consistency of the voice acting. BaziCenter is the most critical, calling it "subpar" and stating it detracts from the experience, especially in the story mode, which implies a disconnect between the audio and narrative. While GameOver.gr notes that voice overs are present and support storytelling, they are not framed as a standout feature, suggesting a lack of exceptional execution. Additionally, Jeuxvideo.com (on both XBOX and PC) and Jeuxvideo.com (PS5) avoid explicitly commenting on voice acting, instead focusing on the role of commentators, which may indicate a perceived gap in the game’s audio design. These critiques highlight that while the voice acting is present and functional, it may not meet the high expectations of some players, particularly in terms of emotional resonance or technical polish. The overall consensus among critics leans toward a balanced but generally positive assessment of Street Fighter 6’s voice acting, with most acknowledging its contribution to immersion and character expression. While BaziCenter stands out as a vocal detractor, the majority praise its execution, diversity, and integration into gameplay and narrative. The presence of bilingual voice tracks (English and Japanese) and community commentary, as noted by Vandal and Vgames, underscores the game’s effort to cater to global audiences. However, the lack of subtitles in some cases and the occasional underemphasis on voice acting as a core feature suggest that while it is a welcome addition, it is not universally hailed as a groundbreaking element. Critics like Hobby Consolas and IGN Japan emphasize its strengths, whereas others, such as GameOver.gr, view it as a secondary aspect. This mixed reception reflects a game where voice acting is competent but not consistently exceptional, leaving room for improvement in future iterations.

The technical performance of Street Fighter 6 varies across platforms, with notable positives for most systems. On the Nintendo Switch 2, critics like SpazioGames and COGconnected praised its ability to maintain 60fps in most modes, with reliable netcode and smooth combat, though the World Tour mode struggled with 30fps drops. VG247 highlighted image quality issues on PC, but Gamesurf and GamingBolt commended the Switch 2’s stability and use of DLSS for performance. The PS5 received widespread acclaim for its online performance, with GameSpot and GameOver.gr noting smooth, lag-free matches and robust rollback netcode. Generación Xbox and SomosXbox praised the Xbox Series X for its stable online experience, while Meristation highlighted cross-platform compatibility and seamless netcode. PC users, though facing some texture and animation glitches (per Worth Playing and Windows Central), generally experienced solid performance, with IGN Japan and Meristation emphasizing smooth online play and crossplay support. Negative technical issues were primarily concentrated on specific platforms. The Nintendo Switch 2 faced consistent criticism for World Tour mode performance, with Eurogamer Portugal and Vandal noting 30fps drops that hindered enjoyment, while Jeuxvideo.com and GamingTrend reported texture problems and frame rate dips in portable mode. PS5 users encountered occasional frame rate issues in World Tour mode (per GameSpot and GameSpew), and Xbox Series X reviewers like Generación Xbox mentioned texture quality flaws, though these were expected to be patched. PC platforms faced texture loading and animation glitches (as noted by Worth Playing and Jeuxvideo.com), while Xbox Series S users were advised to avoid the previous-gen version per BaziCenter. VG247 and Jeuxvideo.com also pointed to minor bugs in solo modes, though these were deemed less impactful than online performance concerns. Overall, critics consensus leans toward positive technical performance, with PS5 and Xbox Series X leading in online stability and netcode, while Nintendo Switch 2 and PC faced platform-specific challenges. Vandal and GameSpot acknowledged minor issues across systems, but SpazioGames and Meristation emphasized that these were often offset by strong core mechanics and cross-platform features. While World Tour mode on Switch 2 and occasional texture glitches on PC and PS5 were recurring complaints, the majority of reviewers, including GameSpot, GameOver.gr, and Meristation, highlighted Street Fighter 6 as a technically polished title with minimal impact on gameplay. The game’s rollback netcode, praised by SomosXbox, Player 2, and Push Square, emerged as a standout feature, ensuring smooth online experiences despite minor platform-specific hiccups.

The majority of critics highlight Street Fighter 6 as a game with strong replay value due to its diverse gameplay modes and robust content. Reviewers like TheGamer, Gamers Heroes, and GameGrin emphasize the online Battle Hub, which allows players to engage in multiplayer matches, customize avatars, and spectate games, creating a dynamic social experience. The World Tour mode is frequently praised for its RPG-lite progression, side quests, and character development, offering a lengthy single-player journey that appeals to both newcomers and veterans. IGN Spain and VG247 note the game’s depth and variety, with features like tutorials, training options, and a rich single-player story that cater to different skill levels. Additionally, GamingTrend and Siliconera commend the inclusion of multiple control schemes, character customization, and a vast roster of fighters, ensuring players can experiment and master mechanics. Vandal and SpazioGames also point to the extensive content, including DLC and amiibo integration, which extends the game’s longevity and appeal. However, some critics raise concerns about specific aspects that could limit replayability. Digital Chumps and Game Revolution note that certain modes, like the Battle Hub, feel underdeveloped or less engaging for casual or party settings, while Shacknews and Eurogamer Portugal point to performance issues that might detract from the experience. IGN Japan and Gamers’ Temple criticize the World Tour mode for becoming repetitive over time, despite its customization options. PlaySense and GamingSpew mention the overly accessible Dynamic Control scheme and the potential monotony of the single-player campaign, which could reduce the incentive to revisit. Gamer.nl highlights a limited character roster, and Gaming Age expresses hope for future updates to integrate non-base game characters into World Tour, suggesting room for improvement in content diversity. These critiques, while valid, are often framed as minor drawbacks against a backdrop of generally positive feedback. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding Street Fighter 6’s replay value. While a few voices point to specific flaws—such as repetition in World Tour or performance hiccups—the majority agree that the game’s variety of modes, online features, and content depth make it highly engaging. GameGrin, VGC, and Twinfinite stress that the combination of Fighting Ground, Battle Hub, and World Tour provides ample material for both casual and competitive players. Guardian and Noisy Pixel highlight the game’s ability to keep players motivated through skill development and accessibility, while Generación Xbox and BaziCenter note its potential for long-term enjoyment via updates and a thriving online community. Even critics with reservations acknowledge the game’s strengths, reinforcing that Street Fighter 6 delivers a compelling package that justifies repeated playthroughs, despite some minor imperfections.