Capcom's Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics delivers a nostalgic knockout! This collection, a surprise delight for many longtime fans, offers a comprehensive package of classic fighting games, exceeding expectations and justifying its price tag. This review covers experiences across Steam Deck, PS5, and Nintendo Switch.
Game Lineup:
The collection boasts seven titles: X-Men: Children of the Atom, Marvel Super Heroes, X-Men vs. Street Fighter, Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter, Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes, Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes, and The Punisher (a beat 'em up). All are arcade-perfect versions, including both English and Japanese language options (meaning Norimaro is available in Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter when playing the Japanese version).
Fifteen hours on Steam Deck, thirteen on PS5, and four on Switch provided ample playtime to assess the collection. While this was a first playthrough for many of these titles, the sheer enjoyment, especially with Marvel vs. Capcom 2, easily validates the purchase price, even prompting a desire for the physical copies.
New Features & Enhancements:
The user interface mirrors Capcom's Fighting Collection, though it shares some of that collection's minor flaws (discussed later). Key additions include online and local multiplayer, Switch's local wireless support, rollback netcode, a comprehensive training mode (with hitboxes and input displays), customizable game options, adjustable screen brightness (to mitigate flickering), various display options, and several wallpaper choices. A helpful one-button super move option is also available for online play.
Museum & Gallery:
A substantial museum and gallery showcase over 200 soundtrack tracks and 500 pieces of artwork, some previously unreleased. While a welcome addition, Japanese text in sketches and design documents remains untranslated. The inclusion of the soundtracks is a significant highlight, hopefully paving the way for future vinyl or streaming releases.
Online Multiplayer:
The online experience, tested extensively on Steam Deck (wired and wireless), is a substantial improvement over previous Capcom fighting game collections. Rollback netcode delivers smooth gameplay, even across distances. Matchmaking options include casual and ranked matches, plus leaderboards and a High Score Challenge. The persistent cursor memory after rematches is a small but appreciated touch.
Issues:
The most significant drawback is the single, collection-wide quick save slot. Another minor frustration is the lack of universal settings for visual filters and brightness adjustments. Options are available per game, but a global toggle would be beneficial.
Platform-Specific Notes:
- Steam Deck: Runs flawlessly, Steam Deck Verified status well-earned. Supports 720p (handheld), 1440p (docked), and 4K (docked).
- Nintendo Switch: Visually acceptable, but suffers from noticeable load times compared to other platforms. Local wireless support is a plus.
- PS5: Excellent visuals (tested on a 1440p monitor), fast loading, but played via backward compatibility, missing PS5 Activity Card integration.
Conclusion:
Despite a few minor flaws, Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is a top-tier compilation, not just for fighting game fans, but for anyone who appreciates classic arcade titles. The robust extras and excellent online play make it a must-have. The single save slot remains the most significant issue.
Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics Steam Deck Review Score: 4.5/5
