Summary
- Release Year: 1999
- Genres: Arcade, Fighting
- Platforms: Arcade
- Developers: Capcom Production Studio 2
- Publishers: Capcom
Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike (1999): The Pinnacle of 2D Fighting
Released in 1999, Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike is the second follow-up to the critically acclaimed Street Fighter III: New Generation. Widely considered to be one of the greatest fighting games ever made, 3rd Strike perfected the formula of its predecessors, adding new characters, refining the gameplay mechanics, and delivering stunning visuals and animations.
Gameplay Innovations
One of the most significant changes in 3rd Strike was the introduction of the “EX” system. EX moves are powered-up versions of special moves that require two bars of Super Meter to execute. They deal more damage, have increased range or invincibility, and can even be canceled into other moves for devastating combos.
Another major addition was the “Guard Impact” system. By pressing two punch buttons simultaneously, players can perform a Guard Impact, which absorbs an opponent’s attack and briefly stuns them. This added a new layer of strategy to the game, as players had to carefully manage their meter and decide when to use EX moves or Guard Impacts.
Expanded Roster
3rd Strike expanded the character roster from the previous Street Fighter III games, adding five new fighters:
- Alex: A professional wrestler with incredible strength and grappling abilities.
- Dudley: A British boxer with a refined fighting style and powerful punches.
- Elena: A Kenyan princess who uses capoeira and other African martial arts.
- Hugo: A giant wrestler from Germany who specializes in throws and body slams.
- Oro: A mysterious hermit who uses a unique style based on the principles of Ki.
Stunning Visuals and Animations
3rd Strike is also renowned for its beautiful visuals and fluid animations. The game’s character models are incredibly detailed, and the backgrounds are vibrant and full of life. The animations are smooth and realistic, making the fights look incredibly dynamic and exciting.
Critical Acclaim and Legacy
Upon its release, Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike received universal critical acclaim. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, expanded roster, and stunning visuals. The game quickly became a favorite among competitive fighting game players and has remained popular in the years since its release.
3rd Strike has been ported to numerous platforms, including the Dreamcast, PlayStation 2, Xbox, and PC. It has also been included in several compilations, such as Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection and Capcom Fighting Collection.
The Perfect Fighting Game?
Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike is often considered to be the pinnacle of 2D fighting games. Its tight gameplay, diverse roster, and stunning visuals make it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned fighting game veteran or a newcomer to the genre, 3rd Strike is a must-play title that will provide countless hours of enjoyment.
Additional Features
In addition to the core gameplay, Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike also includes a number of additional features:
- Training Mode: A comprehensive training mode that allows players to practice their combos and strategies.
- Challenge Mode: A series of challenges that test players’ skills in different areas, such as execution, combo ability, and matchup knowledge.
- Online Multiplayer: Online multiplayer support allows players to compete against each other over the internet.
- Replay Mode: A replay mode that allows players to save and rewatch their matches.
Conclusion
Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike is a masterpiece of the fighting game genre. Its innovative gameplay, expanded roster, and stunning visuals have made it a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by players around the world. Whether you’re a casual fan or a competitive player, 3rd Strike is a game that you won’t want to miss.
Review Score
9.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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