Street Fighter 5's Next DLC Character Is Akuma

Capcom has announced Akuma will be the next character to join Street Fighter 5's roster of fighters. He was announced after the conclusion of the Red Bull Battlegrounds tournament in Seattle. A teaser video shown during the event also revealed a new stage, which is a rainy backdrop that has a dilapidated temple in the distance.

Akuma is shown executing his Shun Goku Satsu move, so is depicted as a blood red eye darting around in the dark as the sounds of punches and kicks can be heard. Japanese Kanji suddenly appears superimposed onto the character's back, completing the iconic pose.

Fans have noted that the Kanji symbol is different from the one usually seen on Akuma's back and, in fact, is closer to the one used for Capcom Vs. SNK 2. Ordinarily, the Kanji is a reference to heaven, but this time it means "God," according to Eventhubs.

This has led to some speculation on how he may play, specifically in regards to what his V-Trigger activation could be. The current thinking is that it could allow him to transform into Shin Akuma, and enter a more powerful state, much like Necalli.

Although Capcom has not yet announced a release date for Akuma, the character will be playable at PlayStation Experience. This event is set to take place at the Anaheim Convention Center on December 3 and 4.

In September, Capcom added Urien to Street Fighter 5 via an update that also included a daily targets feature. You can see the full list of new content in Street Fighter 5's September's update here.