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The Street Fighter series stands as a timeless monument in the fighting game genre. Its demanding gameplay, iconic roster of fighters, and near-perfect balance have cemented its place in gaming history. Following the success of Street Fighter IV, Capcom continued its momentum with a series of expansions. Ultra Street Fighter IV, the latest iteration, is widely considered the most complete and engaging version of Street Fighter IV to date. What makes this version so special?

A Legacy of Fighting Game Excellence

Ultra Street Fighter IV builds upon the solid foundation of its predecessors, refining and expanding upon the core mechanics that define the series. Released in 2014, this definitive edition brought a wealth of new content and gameplay tweaks to the table, solidifying its place as a fan favorite. Let’s explore the key features that make Ultra Street Fighter IV a must-play for fighting game enthusiasts.

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Balanced Gameplay: The Heart of the Fighter

Balance is paramount in any fighting game, ensuring fair and competitive matches. Ultra Street Fighter IV delivers on this crucial aspect, addressing the shortcomings of Super Street Fighter IV: Arcade Edition ver.2012 and fulfilling the promise of a truly balanced fighting experience. Capcom achieved this by actively seeking and incorporating feedback from both dedicated fans and professional players.

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While the core gameplay mechanics remain familiar—light and heavy punches and kicks, Focus Attacks, throws, Ultra Combos—Ultra Street Fighter IV emphasizes player skill over character-specific advantages. Each character possesses unique strengths and weaknesses, allowing skilled players to overcome seemingly stronger opponents with strategic play and mastery of their chosen fighter.

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A Diverse Roster of 44 Fighters

Ultra Street Fighter IV boasts a massive roster of 44 characters, each with their own distinct fighting style and personality. This diverse cast adds a layer of strategic depth, as characters can counter or synergize with others. Choosing the right fighter becomes a crucial decision, as matchups can significantly impact the outcome of a battle.

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Mastering even a few characters requires dedication, but understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the entire roster is essential for competitive play. The vast array of characters and playstyles ensures a dynamic and engaging experience, demanding constant adaptation and strategic thinking.

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New Mechanics and Enhanced Gameplay

Ultra Street Fighter IV introduces three new mechanics: Red Focus Attack, Delayed Wake-up, and Ultra Combo Double. These additions further enhance the strategic depth and open up new possibilities for combos and mind games. Red Focus Attack allows for absorbing multiple hits and launching powerful counterattacks. Delayed Wake-up adds a mind-game element, allowing players to mix up their opponent’s offense. Ultra Combo Double provides the option to use two Ultra Combos, albeit with reduced damage, adding another layer of strategic decision-making.

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A Familiar Foundation: Building on the Past

While Ultra Street Fighter IV introduces new content and mechanics, it retains the core gameplay and graphical style of its predecessor. The focus remains on the intense, skill-based combat that defines the series. This can be seen as both a strength and a weakness. For longtime fans, it’s a comfortable and familiar experience. However, for newcomers or those expecting a significant visual overhaul, it may feel somewhat dated.

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Minimal Story, Maximum Fighting

Like previous entries, Ultra Street Fighter IV doesn’t prioritize a complex narrative. The story elements primarily serve to introduce new characters and provide context for their rivalries. The focus remains squarely on the fighting, offering a deep and rewarding experience for those seeking competitive gameplay.

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Conclusion: The Definitive Street Fighter IV Experience

Ultra Street Fighter IV delivers a refined and expanded fighting game experience, building upon the strong foundation of Street Fighter IV. With its balanced gameplay, diverse roster, and new mechanics, it stands as the definitive edition of this iconic fighting game. While the lack of a significant graphical overhaul and minimal story may disappoint some, the core gameplay remains as engaging and rewarding as ever. For fans of the fighting genre, Ultra Street Fighter IV is a must-play.