Virtua Fighter’s Evolution: Insights from the Creators
▼ Summary
– Virtua Fighter’s return at Evo 2025 generated excitement, with showcases for both Virtua Fighter 5 REVO and the upcoming new game.
– VF5 REVO World Stage introduces cross-platform play and a new single-player mode, addressing player feedback for more customization items.
– Community engagement efforts include polls and tournaments, revealing regional character popularity differences (e.g., Aoi and Brad favored in the West vs. Akira and Pai in Japan).
– The new Virtua Fighter Project features older character designs, a timeline progression, and a focus on realism while retaining the series’ essence.
– The upcoming game aims for accessible controls and a stronger narrative, blending gameplay and storytelling more prominently than past titles.
The fighting game community is buzzing with excitement as Virtua Fighter makes a triumphant return at Evo 2025. After years of anticipation, both Virtua Fighter 5 REVO and the upcoming new installment stole the spotlight, reigniting passion among longtime fans and newcomers alike. We sat down with Seiji Aoki, head of Sega’s Legacy Virtua Fighter team, and Riichiro Yamada, producer of the New Virtua Fighter Project, to discuss the series’ revival and future.
One major announcement was the rebranded VF5 REVO World Stage, coming soon to PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. This isn’t just a simple port—it introduces cross-platform play and a dedicated single-player Quest Mode, addressing fan requests for deeper solo content. Aoki confirmed that while classic customization items from Final Showdown will return via in-game tournaments, entirely new cosmetics aren’t currently planned.
Community feedback has played a pivotal role in shaping the game’s direction. The team launched an official Discord, hosted global tournaments, and even ran polls on character popularity and stage preferences. Interestingly, regional tastes vary sharply: Aoi, Brad, and Eileen dominate Western polls, while Akira, Jacky, and the Bryant sisters top Japan’s lists. Balance adjustments, like recent tweaks to Taka-Arashi, aim for parity without diluting each fighter’s uniqueness. “We’re not nerfing anyone—just elevating others,” Aoki explained, though further updates remain on hold for now.
When asked about a potential Capcom Fighting Collection-style compilation for Sega’s classic fighters like Fighting Vipers or Last Bronx, Aoki admitted it’s an appealing idea. “It could reconnect older fans while attracting new players,” he mused.
The real showstopper, however, was the New Virtua Fighter Project’s gameplay trailer, met with roaring applause at Evo. Producer Riichiro Yamada revealed that the sequel advances the timeline beyond VF5’s 2006 setting, aging characters like Akira and Wolf. This time, designs focus on lifestyle and motivations rather than just combat styles. The trailer showcased stunningly fluid animations, with unique guard reactions for each attack. “We’re aiming for flashy realism—keeping the essence but making it visually thrilling,” Yamada said, drawing inspiration from classic kung-fu films.
Controls stay faithful to the series’ arcade roots—simple inputs with depth. Yamada emphasized accessibility: “Anyone should pick it up stress-free.” While tight-lipped on specifics, he hinted at a stronger narrative focus, a departure from past titles’ minimal storytelling. “Expect a fresh take on blending plot and gameplay,” he teased.
With VF5 REVO World Stage bridging the gap and a bold new chapter on the horizon, Virtua Fighter’s future has never looked brighter. The team’s commitment to evolution without compromise ensures the series will continue to captivate fighters worldwide.
(Source: gamespot)