The Resurgence of Capcom’s Fighting Classics: What Matsumoto Reveals About the Future of Fighting Games

Capcom is making waves in the gaming industry by reintroducing some of its most iconic titles. The company has delighted long-time fans with a sequel to Okami and the re-release of classic crossover battles with Capcom vs. SNK 2 as part of its Fighting Collection series. However, amidst the nostalgia and excitement, one major change has sparked controversy among old-school players.

The absence of roll canceling—a technique once deemed integral to CvS2—has raised eyebrows. While many welcome the returning classics, this decision reflects a broader conversation on the evolution of fighting games and how they cater to both new and experienced players.

Fighting Games with Easier Controls Lead to More Players, Says Street Fighter Producer

We had the opportunity to speak with Street Fighter 6 Producer Shuhei Matsumoto about these changes. Known for their significance in the Fighting Collection series, Matsumoto shared insights into why modern fighting games have shifted toward more accessible controls.

“Fighting games are famous for their difficulty,” Matsumoto explained. “For a long time, the competitive community around them was extremely niche.” But times are changing. Now, with tournaments like Evo attracting more participants and even top streamers flocking to play Street Fighter 6, the paradigm has shifted.

Under Matsumoto’s oversight, Street Fighter 6 strikes a careful balance between complexity and simplicity, making it more approachable for those who might shy away from spending hours mastering intricate combos. “Players now have access to modern controls and dynamic schemes that allow for a multiplayer experience that’s both competitive and enjoyable,” he noted.

While Matsumoto celebrates the classic titles, he acknowledges that simplifying mechanics doesn’t equate to losing substance. As he so eloquently stated, “Modern fighting games should have systems that are easy to understand, allowing players to focus more on their matches rather than the mechanics themselves.”

The Reason for Removing Roll Canceling

Delving into the details of CvS2, Matsumoto discussed why specific techniques, namely roll canceling, were excluded from the remaster. Despite its historical significance, the development team classified roll canceling as a glitch—a decision that led to heated discussions within the community.

The game’s developers believed that such complicated mechanics could deter new players. “We want to ensure that everyone can enjoy CvS2 ranked matches without needing to learn this intricate technique,” Matsumoto remarked. “Understanding the community’s history with CvS2, this was a tough decision, but we believe it’s for the best.”

He is optimistic about the future, stating, “While we see roll canceling as a glitch now, it is a technique with legacy importance. We’ll continue to explore ways to keep the spirit of these classics alive in future games.”

Will We Get a New Capcom vs SNK Game?

With fighting games experiencing a renaissance, thanks to recent titles like Tekken 8 and the buzz surrounding City of the Wolves, it’s clear that older games are making a comeback. Capcom Fighting Collection 2 showcases these classic games, providing a platform for both nostalgia and new interest.

Interestingly, Matsumoto expressed a strong desire within the Capcom team for a new Capcom vs. SNK title. “Every member of the fighting game development team, including myself, has wanted this for a long time. It would truly be a dream come true,” he shared enthusiastically.

The crossovers, such as Terry and Mai from the Fatal Fury series appearing in Street Fighter 6, have attracted new players to the franchise. Matsumoto hopes that these new fans will explore the deep history of these characters through titles like Capcom Fighting Collection 2.

As we look ahead, Matsumoto’s insights suggest an encouraging trajectory for the fighting game genre, blending the beloved mechanics of the past with innovative features for the future. The conversation is shifting, and the stage is set for a more inclusive gaming experience.

For more insights on Capcom and their classic titles, check out our pieces on Street Fighter’s journey, the evolution of fighting games, and Capcom’s exciting history of character crossovers in gaming.