Arcade1Up Street Fighter 2 Legacy Edition Review

The Arcade1Up Street Fighter 2 Legacy Edition is a nostalgic nod to one of the most iconic fighting games of all time. This review delves into the features, design, and overall gameplay experience of this arcade machine, providing a comprehensive look at what makes it a standout addition to any game room or collector’s collection.

Design and Build Quality
The Street Fighter 2 Legacy Edition by Arcade1Up stands out with its impressive design that pays homage to the classic 1991 arcade cabinet. It features authentic artwork from the original game, including the vivid graphics and colorful characters that fans remember fondly. The cabinet's build quality is robust, constructed with sturdy materials that mimic the feel of an original arcade machine, while being lightweight enough for easy setup. The control panel is adorned with a beautiful graphic of Ryu and Ken, and the joystick and buttons are designed to offer a responsive and tactile gaming experience.

Screen and Display
One of the most notable aspects of the Legacy Edition is its 17-inch LCD screen, which provides a crisp and clear display of the game graphics. The screen size strikes a good balance between being large enough to enjoy the game without overwhelming the space it occupies. The resolution is well-suited for the pixel art style of Street Fighter 2, and the color reproduction is vibrant, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the game.

Gameplay Experience
The gameplay experience on the Arcade1Up Street Fighter 2 Legacy Edition is both engaging and nostalgic. The cabinet includes the original Street Fighter 2 Championship Edition, which is widely regarded as one of the best versions of the game. The controls are responsive, and the joystick and buttons provide a satisfying click with each press, which is crucial for performing combos and special moves. The inclusion of multiple games in the series adds value, offering players access to Street Fighter 2: Turbo and Street Fighter 2: Hyper Fighting, further enriching the gaming experience.

Audio Quality
Audio quality is another strong point of the Legacy Edition. The built-in stereo speakers deliver clear and immersive sound, allowing players to hear the iconic sound effects and music of Street Fighter 2 in high fidelity. The volume controls are easy to adjust, ensuring that players can set the sound level to their preference without any hassle.

Assembly and Setup
Setting up the Arcade1Up Street Fighter 2 Legacy Edition is relatively straightforward. The cabinet comes with clear instructions and all the necessary tools for assembly. It typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes to put together, depending on your experience with assembling similar products. The assembly process involves attaching the legs, screen, and control panel, and it does not require any special skills or additional tools.

Additional Features
The Legacy Edition also includes a light-up marquee that adds to the overall aesthetic and enhances the arcade vibe. The marquee is a nice touch that not only looks great but also helps in creating an authentic arcade experience. Additionally, the cabinet has adjustable volume settings and a coin door that adds to the classic arcade feel, even though it does not actually accept coins.

Pros and Cons
Pros:

• Authentic design and artwork that captures the essence of the original arcade game.
• High-quality controls that provide a responsive and enjoyable gaming experience.
• Clear and vibrant display that enhances the visual appeal of the game.
• Built-in audio that delivers immersive sound.
• Easy assembly with clear instructions and all necessary tools included.

Cons:

• Limited screen size compared to full-sized arcade machines.
• No online multiplayer, which may be a drawback for those looking for modern features.
• Limited game selection with only a few versions of Street Fighter 2 included.

Conclusion
Overall, the Arcade1Up Street Fighter 2 Legacy Edition is an excellent choice for fans of the classic game and those who appreciate arcade nostalgia. Its thoughtful design, solid build quality, and engaging gameplay make it a worthwhile addition to any game room or collector’s space. While it has a few limitations, such as the screen size and lack of modern features, it delivers on its promise of offering a genuine arcade experience. For anyone who cherishes the legacy of Street Fighter 2, this cabinet is a fantastic way to relive the excitement and challenge of the original game.