A no nonsense serious fighter
The game brings together the best from Capcom and SNK fighters through the years. Based on a team event one on one 2 3 round fights are not possible but with enough mixing and matching between the different levels each character is set it can be very balanced.
The backgrounds are brilliant and possible better than the 2nd version because it uses no 3D effects . Each one starts with a short introduction which sets the fight up. Visually stunning is all I can say and Zoom is used to great effect. You can also unlock more depending on how well you play.
Sound is much improved over other streetfighters. Music in particular is far better than C V SNK 2
Characters are well balanced and SNK players will never handle better than this thanks to Capcoms engine. There are only 2 kicks and 2 punches to suit the SNK arrival. But other variants of the basic kicks and punches can be achieved by the direction of the D Pad. The only problem is that the Dreamcast controller doesnt suit 2D Fighters but you can always pick up an adpater to use the PS controller. This still leaves it feeling slightly weird. Difficult to explain.
The game uses a groove system which rewards you on how well you beat your oppoinent. Earning hight points can unlock additional characters and more beautiful backgrounds.
The Playstation version has significant lag time with loading and scaled down graphics. But if you have a Dreamcast you deffinately need to buy this more grown-up version of Capcom vs SNK and you will notice the difference between it and the sequels approach to target audience.
BUY IT!!