Virtua Fighter 4: Evolution Import Preview
We check out the Japanese version of AM2's follow-up to Virtua Fighter 4 on the PlayStation 2.
When it was released last year, the PlayStation 2 version of Virtua Fighter 4 was the best home conversion of Sega's acclaimed arcade fighting series to ever hit the market. The game's solid visuals, tight controls, and impressive array of game modes provided the underrated series with its best shot at mass appeal. Sega and developer AM2 are now following up with a home conversion of the arcade follow-up to VF4, Virtua Fighter 4: Evolution, a game that featured some significant improvements on its predecessor. We've spent a good amount of time exploring an import copy of the PS2 version and have been impressed by what it has to offer.
In its attempt to create the illusion of online play, Virtua Fighter 4: Evolution is essentially the fighting game equivalent of Nintendo's Animal Crossing. With VF4: Evolution, the development team at Sega-AM2 has not only built upon the kumite mode found in the original PS2 game, but it has also improved on the original's use of computer-controlled characters to create the impression that you're playing against human opponents with different styles. Of course, other aspects of the original Virtua Fighter 4 have also been expanded upon, including the roster, the character customization features, the visuals, the training mode, and even the arcade mode.
In particular, Virtua Fighter 4: Evolution adds special "mission matches" that appear at different times during the arcade mode. These mission matches add certain criteria to the fighting, and you'll earn a prize for your fighter if you can meet them. In one instance, you must land more punches and kicks than your opponent before the end of the match, while in another, you have to perform four throws to earn the prize. Of course, you don't need to fulfill these criteria to win the overall match and progress through the arcade mode.
But the additions to the arcade more are pretty insignificant when viewed in light of Virtua Fighter 4: Evolution's quest mode, which is essentially a much more diverse and robust version of the kumite mode from the original Virtua Fighter 4. After selecting a character, you'll be brought into a map area that initially has two different areas to choose from: Sega World West and Event Square. There are other areas to go to in the quest mode, but they will have to be unlocked.
Sega World West allows you to challenge a steady stream of opponents with varying ranks and skill levels. This particular area also provides an excellent demonstration of Virtua Fighter 4: Evolution's refined fighting AI, as you'll see several different fighting styles being used by the same characters. Interestingly, some of these opponents even have badges that you can earn by winning the match, though these opponents can and will challenge you repeatedly to get their badge back if you defeat them. Of course, the ranking matches also make a return appearance, so your fighter will be able to move up in rank by winning several matches in succession.
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