Street Fighter 6

Our analysis

A return to form that makes Street Fighter feel like a real video game again, with fast matchmaking, quick load times, and rock-solid online play that Street Fighter 5 lacked at launch. Mechanically rich and a lot of fun, with systems designed to make players at every skill level feel powerful, plus a standout character creator. World Tour is a gimmicky single-player mode that squanders the combat, but the arcade cabinets are a cool touch and the core game easily passes the 3am test.

Our analysis

A standout reinvention that lowers the barrier to entry while keeping depth for veterans, split across World Tour, Battle Hub, and Fighting Grounds. The new modern control scheme makes special moves accessible to novices, and the art direction, character designs, and in-fight visuals are spectacular. Open-world hubs lack fidelity and some missions get tedious with backtracking, but it's the fighting game to get this year.

Our analysis

Triumph for the series with revolutionary Drive Gauge system and 20-hour World Tour campaign.

Our analysis

From a casual fighting-game perspective, a stylish, accessible, and confidently made entry that nails presentation and approachability. The new Drive gauge (impact, parry, burnout) adds satisfying give-and-take depth, and the tiered control schemes smartly ease newcomers from modern into classic inputs. World Tour is a janky-but-fun RPG-style single-player mode despite a poor frame rate, and the Battle Hub handles online play well, making it the most welcoming Street Fighter in years.

Our analysis

Street Fighter 6 delivers excellent core fighting mechanics with innovative Drive system and diverse content modes that welcome both newcomers and seasoned pros.