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Review of Pocket Fighter on PlayStation

by Max Rathon Max Rathon photo Aug 1998
Cover image of Pocket Fighter on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 7.5
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 03 Aug 1998
Genre: Fighting
Developer: Capcom
Publisher: Capcom

Introduction

Imagine a world where your favorite street fighters hang out in a cartoonish universe, and instead of fighting for their lives, they're just kicking butt in the most adorable way possible-Welcome to Pocket Fighter! This fighting game wears its cute factor on its sleeve while packing a punch that can rival a protein shake on a Monday morning. Launched by Capcom, this gem mixes traditional fighting mechanics with a hefty dose of humor and accessibility.

Gameplay

The gameplay is an adorable mashup of amusing mechanics and light-hearted fun. Players can pick from a roster containing familiar faces from Capcom's other franchises like Street Fighter and Darkstalkers, and step into battles that feel less intense than a family game night. The game introduces collectible gems during fights, giving your character some power-ups that would make any gym rat jealous. Watch as you can throw elemental orbs that can freeze, turn your opponent into stone, or even send them packing! Seriously, who wouldn't want to freeze Chun-Li mid-kick? The interface is a riot! You have two main bars-the life bar (which we all know and love) and the super bar-that tracks how many Mighty Combos you can unleash upon your unsuspecting enemy. The best part? These combos are as wild as they are entertaining, allowing you to shoot gems at your opponent for that extra flair of humor. Plus, each character has their animated stock icon that shifts emotions throughout the match. If you ever wanted to see Ryu look sad because he lost a round, well, now you can! Special moves are simple to execute, keeping the frantically complicated commands of traditional fighting games at bay. Newbies can jump into the action without spending hours learning move lists, while veterans can still find ways to extend their combos and show off those flashy skills. Don't forget about the taunts! Yes, there's a dedicated button for those hilarious moments when you just want your opponent to know you're having more fun than them (it's basically a Mario Kart 'in-your-face' moment).

Graphics

Graphically, Pocket Fighter is a delight. Those super deformed character models seriously amplify the cuteness factor. The cartoonish art style is a breath of fresh air compared to the hyper-realistic trend of today's fighting games. Each stage is loaded with charm and personality, often resembling a vibrant street fair more than a battleground. Plus, who can forget those fabulous costume changes during 'Flash Combos'? Watching your character switch to an alternate outfit mid-combo is not just practical, it's a fashion show extravaganza! You might even wonder if Ryu could pull off a floral bikini if push came to shove.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pocket Fighter is a whimsical fighting game that delivers a unique blend of humor and charm, perfect for those who may feel intimidated by traditional fighters. While it might not have the depth of Street Fighter or Tekken, that's precisely what makes it so accessible and fun. Grab a friend, throw in a few snacks, and prepare for a gaming session full of giggles and ridiculous antics. Just don't be surprised if you find yourself barking orders at your screen as you try to perfect those Mighty Combos. Capcom proves that being adorable doesn't mean you can't kick some serious butt. So go play Pocket Fighter and let the cuteness take you down a hilariously fun path!

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