Marvel vs. Capcom Collection: Arcade Gems Return

Capcom's Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is a revelation for fighting game fans, especially given the mixed reception of recent Marvel vs. Capcom titles. This collection offers a fantastic trip down memory lane, featuring seven classic arcade games, including the highly-anticipated Marvel vs. Capcom 2. Having only played the more modern entries previously, this compilation was a welcome opportunity to experience the legacy titles. The inclusion of both English and Japanese versions, with features like Norimaro in Marvel Super Heroes vs. Street Fighter (Japanese version), adds significant replay value.

Game Lineup:

The collection boasts an impressive roster: 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 beat 'em up, THE PUNISHER. All are based on the original arcade versions, ensuring a faithful and complete experience.

This review is based on extensive playtime across Steam Deck (both LCD and OLED), PS5 (backward compatibility), and Nintendo Switch. While lacking deep expertise in these classic titles, the sheer enjoyment derived from Marvel vs. Capcom 2 alone easily justifies the purchase price.

Enhanced Features:

The user interface mirrors Capcom's Fighting Collection, offering familiar functionality alongside online and local multiplayer, local wireless (Switch), rollback netcode, a comprehensive training mode, customizable game options, and a crucial white flash reduction feature. A noteworthy addition is the one-button super option, perfect for newcomers.

Museum & Gallery:

A rich museum and gallery showcase over 200 soundtracks and 500 pieces of artwork, some previously unseen by the public. While a delightful addition, the lack of translation for Japanese text in certain documents is a minor drawback. 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 significant improvement over previous Capcom collections. Rollback netcode delivers smooth gameplay, complemented by adjustable input delay and cross-region matchmaking. The inclusion of casual and ranked matches, leaderboards, and a High Score Challenge mode adds depth and replayability. The persistent cursor memory for character selection after rematches is a small but appreciated detail.

Shortcomings:

The collection's main flaw is the single, universal save state, impacting convenience across multiple games. The lack of universal settings for visual filters and light reduction is another minor inconvenience.

Platform Performance:

On Steam Deck, the game runs flawlessly, achieving Steam Deck Verified status. Performance on PS5 is excellent, though backward compatibility prevents native PS5 features. The Switch version, while functional, suffers from noticeable load times.

Overall, Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics is a triumph, offering a superb package of classic games and modern enhancements. Despite minor flaws, its exceptional online play, comprehensive extras, and overall enjoyable experience make it a must-have for fighting game enthusiasts.

Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics Steam Deck Review Score: 4.5/5