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{{Short description|1996 video game}}
{{Infobox VG
{{Infobox video game
| title = Street Fighter Alpha 2
| title = Street Fighter Alpha 2
| image = [[Image:Street Fighter Alpha 2 flyer.png]]
| image = Street Fighter Alpha 2 flyer.png
| developer = [[Capcom]]
| developer = [[Capcom]]
| publisher = {{collapsible list|title={{nobold|Capcom}}|{{vgrelease|PAL|[[Virgin Interactive]] (PS1, Saturn, PC)}}{{vgrelease|NA/PAL|[[Nintendo]] (SNES)}}}}
| publisher = [[Capcom]]
| producer =
| designer =
| designer =
| programmer =
| released ='''Arcade''' <br> {{flagicon|Japan}} [[February 27]], [[1996 in video gaming|1996]] <br> {{flagicon|United States}} [[March 6]], [[1996 in video gaming|1996]] <br> '''PlayStation''' <br> {{flagicon|Japan}} [[1997]] <br> {{flagicon|United States}} 1997 <br> '''Super Nintendo''' <br> {{flagicon|Japan}} 1996 <br> {{flagicon|United States}} 1996
| artist =
| genre = [[Versus fighting game|Versus Fighting]]
| composer = Setsuo Yamamoto<br />Syun Nishigaki<br />Tatsuro Suzuki
| modes = Up to 2 players simultaneously
| series = ''[[Street Fighter]]''
| cabinet = Upright
| platforms = [[Arcade game|Arcade]], [[PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]], [[Sega Saturn]], [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|SNES]], [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]]
| arcade system = [[CPS-2]]
| released = {{collapsible list|title={{nobold|March 25, 1996}}|'''Arcade'''<br />{{vgrelease|JP|March 25, 1996<ref>{{cite web |title=ヒストリー ストリートファイター35周年記念サイト |url=https://www.streetfighter.com/ja/35th/history.html |website=[[Capcom|Capcom JP]]}}</ref>|NA|March 1996}}'''PlayStation'''<br /> {{vgrelease|JP|August 9, 1996|NA|November 1, 1996<ref name="release">{{Cite web |date= |title=The Buzz -- October - November News |url=http://www.gamepen.com/news/buzzoctnov.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970331195536/http://www.gamepen.com/news/buzzoctnov.html |archive-date=March 31, 1997 |access-date=December 25, 2023 |website=Escapade}}</ref>|AU|October 18, 1996|EU|November 16, 1996}} '''Sega Saturn'''<br /> {{vgrelease|JP|September 14, 1996|NA|November 1, 1996<ref name="release"/>|EU|November 16, 1996}} '''SNES''' <br />{{vgrelease|NA|October 28, 1996<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Street Fighter Alpha 2 for Super NES to Hit October 28th |url=http://www.gameinformer.com/news/sep96/091196b.html |magazine=[[Game Informer]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990218164712/http://www.gameinformer.com/news/sep96/091196b.html |archive-date=February 18, 1999 |date=September 11, 1996}}</ref>|EU|December 19, 1996|JP|December 20, 1996|}} '''Windows''' <br />{{vgrelease|NA|November 1, 1997|JP|March 12, 1998|EU|1998}} <!-- Do not list emulated releases here (i.e. Virtual Console) per [[Template:Infobox video game#platforms]] -->}}
| display = [[Raster graphics|Raster]], 384 x 224 pixels (Horizontal), 4096 colors
| genre = [[Fighting game|Fighting]]
| input = 8-way [[Joystick]], 6 [[Button (control)|Buttons]]
| modes = [[Single-player]], [[multiplayer]]
| platforms = [[Arcade game|Arcade]]<br>[[PlayStation]]<br>[[PlayStation 2]]<br>[[Sega Saturn]]<br>[[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|SNES]]<br>[[Microsoft Windows|Windows]]
| arcade system = [[CP System II]]
}}
}}


'''''Street Fighter Alpha 2''''', known as {{nihongo|'''''Street Fighter Zero 2'''''|ストリートファイターZERO 2|Sutorito Faita Zero 2}} in [[Japan]], [[Asia]], [[South America]] and [[Spain]], is a [[fighting game]] by [[Capcom]], seen as an overhaul of the first game rather than an actual sequel.<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/features/vgs/universal/sfhistory/games_10_02.html GameSpot:Video Games PC Xbox 360 PS3 Wii PSP DS PS2 PlayStation 2 GameCube GBA PlayStation 3<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> The game featured a number of improvements over the original, such as new endings, stages, moves and gameplay systems.
'''''Street Fighter Alpha 2''''', known as {{nihongo foot|'''''Street Fighter Zero 2'''''|ストリートファイターZERO/2|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} in Japan, Asia, South America, and Oceania, is a [[1996 in video gaming|1996]] [[fighting game]] originally released for the [[CP System II|CPS II]] arcade hardware by [[Capcom]]. The game is a [[Video game remake|remake]] of the previous year's ''[[Street Fighter Alpha|Street Fighter Alpha: Warriors' Dreams]]''<!-- <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/features/vgs/universal/sfhistory/games_10_02.html |access-date=February 12, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060702021359/http://www.gamespot.com/features/vgs/universal/sfhistory/games_10_02.html |archive-date=July 2, 2006 }}</ref> --> and features a number of improvements, such as new attacks, stages, endings, and gameplay features. It was [[ported]] to the [[PlayStation]], [[Sega Saturn]] and [[Super Nintendo]] home consoles globally in 1996, and later a [[Windows]] port. It was followed by ''[[Street Fighter Alpha 3]]'' in 1998.


==New features==
==Gameplay==
''Street Fighter Alpha 2'' retains most of the new features introduced in the original ''Street Fighter Alpha'', such as the three-level Super Combo gauge, Alpha Counters, Air-Blocking, and Fall Breaking. The main new feature in the game is the inclusion of the Custom Combo system (Original Combo in Japan), which replaces the Chain Combos from the first ''Alpha''.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Street Fighter Alpha 2: The Latest SF Comes Home to the PlayStation |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]|issue=88 |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]|date=November 1996 |page=220}}</ref> If the Super Combo gauge is on Lv. 1 or above, the player can initiate a Custom Combo pressing two punch buttons and a kick or one punch button and two kicks.<ref name="EGM85">{{cite magazine|title=Street Fighter Alpha 2 |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=85|publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=August 1996 |pages=48–49}}</ref> The player can then perform any series of basic and special moves to create a Custom Combo until the Timer Gauge at the bottom of the screen runs out. The characters Guy and Gen can still perform Chain Combos, but only to a limited extent. Additionally, each character now has two Alpha Counters instead of just one: one that can be performed with a kick button and another with a punch button.<ref name="SatMag13">{{cite magazine |last=Bright|first=Rob |title=Return to Alpha|magazine=[[Sega Saturn Magazine]] |issue=13|publisher=[[Emap International Limited]]|date=November 1996|pages=36–42}}</ref>
All characters from the first game return with all-new background stages and endings. The overall gameplay is more balanced while a new Custom Combo feature replaces Chain Combos (Custom Combos allow players to exchange super levels for a brief period of time where any attack they do can combo; the more levels used the more time gained). Each character now has their own unique stage as opposed to ''Alpha's'' small pool of stages shared amongst all characters as well as remixed theme music for everyone. Five more characters were also added to the roster, bringing the total number of characters to eighteen (although Cammy would eventually be added later on).


The single-player mode, much like the original ''Street Fighter Alpha 2'', consists of eight matches against computer-controlled opponents, including a fixed final opponent whose identity depends on the player's selected character. Each character also has a secret "rival" whom they can face during the course of the single-player mode. After meeting certain requirements, the rival will interrupt one of the player's matches and exchange dialogue with the player's character, and the player character will then fight the rival instead.<ref name="EGM85" /> With [[Akuma (Street Fighter)|Akuma]] now a regular character, a more powerful version of the character dubbed "Shin Akuma" replaces him as a secret opponent. Unlike ''Super Turbo'' and the original ''Alpha'', Shin Akuma challenges the player before the player's final opponent, rather than as an alternate final boss.
==Characters==
While five characters where added to the game, only one is an original character. Like Birdie and Adon before him, Gen returns from ''Street Fighter'' as a playable character for the first time. Rolento, another character from ''Final Fight'' makes his fighting game debut while Zangief and Dhalsim return from ''Street Fighter II''. Sakura, schoolgirl who modeled her fighting style after her idol Ryu, is the only original character created specifically for the game. The game also makes Akuma, Dan and Bison into standard characters.


===Characters===
Street Fighter Zero 2 features an alternate version of Chun-Li as a hidden character wearing her original ''Street Fighter II'' outfit. When the game was released overseas, Evil Ryu (an alter-ego of Ryu that has mastered the same power as Akuma) was added as a hidden character as well, along with alternate versions of Zangief and Dhalsim that played like their counterparts from ''Street Fighter II': Champion Edition''. All regional releases of the arcade game feature "Shin Akuma" as a hidden non-playable final boss.
The game brings back all thirteen characters from ''[[Street Fighter Alpha]]'', with [[M. Bison]], [[Akuma (Street Fighter)|Akuma]], and [[Dan Hibiki|Dan]] now being immediately selectable as playable characters. In addition to the ''Alpha'' roster, ''Alpha 2'' includes [[Dhalsim]] and [[Zangief]], both from ''[[Street Fighter II]]'', [[Gen (Street Fighter)|Gen]], an assassin from the original ''[[Street Fighter (video game)|Street Fighter]]'', [[Rolento]], a member of the Mad Gear gang who originally appeared in ''[[Final Fight (video game)|Final Fight]]'', and newcomer [[Sakura Kasugano|Sakura]], a Japanese schoolgirl who takes up street fighting after witnessing one of [[Ryu (Street Fighter)|Ryu]]'s battles.<ref name="SatMag12">{{cite magazine |title=Street Fighter Alpha 2|magazine=[[Sega Saturn Magazine]]|issue=12 |publisher=[[Emap International Limited]]|date=October 1996|pages=16–18}}</ref> The game also features a "classic-style" alternative version of Chun-Li where she is wearing her outfit from the ''[[Street Fighter II]]'' series.

==Development==
According to Capcom senior planner [[Shinji Mikami]], "When we were trying to get the balance of Alpha 2 right we only concentrated on Alpha 2. That's the one that's important. We don't really have to get the actual same damage as Alpha. In Alpha 2 some new characters were introduced, so in order to maintain the game balance we had to increase the damage for the normal hits. In addition, this time for Alpha 2 we wanted to focus on the importance of the normal hits and not just the specials."<ref name=SatMag12int>{{cite magazine |title=The Capcom Interview|magazine=[[Sega Saturn Magazine]]|issue=12 |publisher=[[Emap International Limited]]|date=October 1996|page=19}}</ref>

''Street Fighter Alpha 2'' was first unveiled at the February 1996 AOU show in [[Tokyo]].<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Model 3: Sega Affirms Arcade Supremacy |magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=17|publisher=[[Imagine Media]]|date=May 1996|page=17}}</ref>

Both [[Manga Entertainment]]/[[A.P.P.P.]] and [[Group TAC]] developed OVA adaptations based on the game, titled ''[[Street Fighter Alpha: The Animation]]'' (2000) and ''[[Street Fighter Alpha: Generations]]'' (2005), which were both co-produced by [[Kaoru Mfaume]]. All of the characters except Gen and Dan also have roles in the Canadian-American cartoon ''[[Street Fighter (TV series)|Street Fighter: The Animated Series]]''.

==Versions==

===Arcade===
''Street Fighter Alpha 2'' was released under the title ''Street Fighter Zero 2'' in Japan, Asia, and South America. The North American and European versions of ''Alpha 2'' feature three additional characters who were not in the ''Zero 2'' version: Evil Ryu and alternative versions of Dhalsim and Zangief known as EX versions, where they use their movesets from the ''[[Street Fighter II]]'' series and do not have access to the Super Combo gauge.<ref name="SatMag12"/> These three characters were selected by Capcom USA.<ref name="SatMag12int"/>

Capcom also released an updated version of ''Zero 2'' titled '''''Street Fighter Zero 2 Alpha''''' in Japan, Asia, and South America, which features all the additional characters from ''Alpha 2'', as well as other changes to the game. In addition to Zangief and Dhalsim, ''Zero 2 Alpha'' also features EX versions of Ryu, Ken, Chun-Li (where she is wearing her outfit from the ''[[Street Fighter II]]'' series, similarly to the "classic-style" version of her), Sagat, and M. Bison, all of whom were characters from ''[[Street Fighter II: Champion Edition]]''. Custom Combos are now executed by pressing a punch and kick button of the same strength simultaneously and now require half ({{frac|1|1|2}} level) of the Super Combo gauge filled to perform them. Some of the characters have gained new moves such as Ryu's ''Shakunetsu Hadouken'' and Dhalsim's Yoga Tempest. ''Zero 2 Alpha'' also features a survival mode, as well as a 2-on-1 Dramatic Battle mode similar to the hidden "Ryu and Ken vs. Bison mode" in the original ''Alpha''. In this version, Evil Ryu has different dialogue exchanges and a different ending from his regular counterpart.

===Home versions===
* ''Street Fighter Alpha 2'' was ported to the [[PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]] and [[Sega Saturn]] in 1996. The PlayStation version features an arranged soundtrack (in the form of [[CD-ROM|XA-Audio]]), while the Saturn version uses an arranged soundtrack in a streaming ADPCM format (which looped properly like in the arcade version). Both versions feature Shin Akuma as a selectable character via a secret code (which differs between the two versions; the PlayStation version requires players to move the cursor in a pattern which forms the letter Z on the character select screen; the Saturn version requires a pattern that forms an X), in addition to the "classic-style" Chun-Li. The Saturn version is the only one of the two versions to feature the characters Evil Ryu, EX Dhalsim, and EX Zangief from the North American and European arcade versions. The Saturn version also features an exclusive survival mode, as well as an art gallery.<ref name=SatMag13/> The PlayStation version of ''Street Fighter Alpha 2'' was re-released for the [[PlayStation Portable|PSP]] and [[PlayStation 3]] via the [[PlayStation Network]] on June 4, [[2009 in video gaming|2009]] in North America.
* The [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|SNES]] version was also released in 1996. Since third-party publishers such as Capcom were increasingly concentrating on CD-based consoles, outside of Japan this version was published by Nintendo instead of Capcom.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=16-Bit's Final Hurrah|magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=88 |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=November 1996|pages=21–22}}</ref> It makes use of the [[S-DD1 chip]] for on-the-fly graphic decompression.<ref name="Univision">{{cite web|url=https://www.univision.com/entretenimiento/cultura-pop/repasamos-10-juegos-de-snes-que-necesitaron-de-cartuchos-especiales|title=Repasamos 10 juegos de SNES que necesitaron de cartuchos especiales|work=[[Univision]]|publisher=[[Univision Communications]]|date=August 18, 2016|language=es|access-date=2024-02-08|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230129093216/https://www.univision.com/entretenimiento/cultura-pop/repasamos-10-juegos-de-snes-que-necesitaron-de-cartuchos-especiales|archive-date=2023-01-29|url-status=live}}</ref> Despite the graphics decompression chip, this version has loading times when entering matches while sounds are loaded onto the sound chip. Unlike the PlayStation and Saturn versions, the only secret characters available to the player are the "classic-style" Chun-Li and Shin Akuma.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.destructoid.com/stories/shin-akuma-pops-up-in-snes-street-fighter-alpha-2-thanks-to-newly-discovered-code-615767.phtml |title=Shin Akuma pops up in SNES Street Fighter Alpha 2 thanks to newly discovered code |date=5 January 2021 |publisher=Destructoid |access-date=5 January 2021}}</ref> This version was re-released for the Virtual Console in North America on December 7, 2009<ref name="VC NA">{{cite web |url=https://www.nintendo.com/whatsnew/detail/ddQH48likFQNfbvryziHBw2_iPQeYVGA |title=Classic Rayman and Street Fighter Games Lead a Luminous December Lineup |date=7 December 2009 |publisher=Nintendo of America |access-date=7 December 2009}}</ref> and in the PAL region on January 29, 2010 for the [[Wii]], and in North America on May 22, 2014, and in the PAL region on October 2, 2014 for the [[Wii U]].
* A Windows PC version was also released; based on the PlayStation version (but using the arcade soundtrack in 22&nbsp;kHz WAV format) in 1997. This version was sold as a bundle with the original ''Alpha'' in Japan. The Windows PC version was re-released on [[GOG.com]] in 2012.
* A home console version of ''Street Fighter Zero 2 Alpha'' was released under the title '''''Street Fighter Alpha 2 Gold''''' in North America, '''''Street Fighter Alpha 2 (Prime)''''' in Europe{{cn|date=November 2024}}, and '''''Street Fighter Zero 2 (Dash)'''''<ref>Like the Japanese versions of ''Street Fighter II Dash'' and ''Street Fighter II Dash Turbo'', the word "Dash" is represented by a [[prime (symbol)|prime symbol]] ({{prime}}).</ref> in Japan, as part of the ''[[Street Fighter Collection]]'', a compilation released on the [[PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]] and [[Sega Saturn]] that also includes ''[[Super Street Fighter II]]'' and ''[[Super Street Fighter II#Super Street Fighter II Turbo|Super Street Fighter II Turbo]]''. ''Alpha 2 Gold'' features most of the same changes, features, and game modes as the arcade version of ''Zero 2 Alpha'', only omitting the 2-on-1 Dramatic Battle mode from that version. In addition to all of the characters featured in previous versions of ''Alpha 2'' (including the console-exclusive Shin Akuma), ''Gold'' features a version of [[Cammy]] based on her rendition from ''[[X-Men vs. Street Fighter]]'', who appears as a hidden character selectable only in the game{{'}}s Versus and Training modes (the latter only in the Saturn Version, as it is absent from the PlayStation version). The game also features an "Akuma Mode", where the player can fight against Shin Akuma immediately. This version was re-released in Japan as a standalone game in the PlayStation the Best and Satakore budget games lines.
* The [[2006 in video gaming|2006]] [[PlayStation 2]] compilation ''[[Street Fighter Alpha Anthology]]'' features a version of the original ''Alpha 2'' based on the arcade game, as well as a revised version of ''Alpha 2 Gold'' which features Cammy as a selectable character in the game{{'}}s arcade mode (with her own storyline and ending). Both games feature Dramatic Battle and Survival modes in addition to the Arcade, Versus, and Training modes. The Japanese version of the compilation (''Street Fighter Zero: Fighters' Generation'') features the arcade versions of ''Zero 2'' and ''Zero 2 Alpha'', as well as the US version of ''Alpha 2'' and the revised version of ''Zero 2 (Dash)'' with the playable Cammy as hidden games.
* ''Street Fighter Alpha 2'' was ported to the [[PlayStation 4]], [[Xbox One]], [[Steam (service)|Steam]], and [[Nintendo Switch]] as part of the ''[[Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection]]'' released in May 2018. This version is arcade-perfect and does not carry over the coding used in earlier home console versions. Save states are available to allow the player to resume from where they left. The ''Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection'' does not include the ''Alpha 2 Gold'' update.


==Reception==
==Reception==
{{Video game reviews
Numerous game magazines at the time voted ''SFA2'' one of the best arcade games of the year, the relatively minor changes to the fundamentals of the game and the extensive polishing of the same winning formula gained general approval from competitive fans also.
| PS = true
| SNES = true
| SSAT = true
| GR_SSAT = 87% (4 reviews)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/saturn/198818-street-fighter-alpha-2/index.html|title=Street Fighter Alpha 2 Sega Saturn Review Score|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120623030816/http://www.gamerankings.com/saturn/198818-street-fighter-alpha-2/index.html|archive-date=2012-06-23}}</ref>
| GR_PS = 82% (4 reviews)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/ps/198817-street-fighter-alpha-2/index.html|title=Street Fighter Alpha 2 PlayStation Review Score|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111207141729/http://www.gamerankings.com/ps/198817-street-fighter-alpha-2/index.html|archive-date=2011-12-07}}</ref>
| Allgame_PS = {{rating|2.5|5}}<ref>{{cite web |last=Kanarick |first=Mark |url=http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=12039 |title=Street Fighter Alpha 2 - Overview - allgame |website=[[Allgame]] |date=2014-12-10 |access-date=2016-03-11 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141210231929/http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=12039 |archive-date=December 10, 2014 }}</ref>
| Allgame_SNES = {{rating|3|5}}<ref>{{cite web |last=Alan |first=Brett |url=http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=2616 |title=Street Fighter Alpha 2 - Overview - allgame |website=[[Allgame]] |date=2014-12-10 |access-date=2016-03-11 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141210231928/http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=2616 |archive-date=December 10, 2014 }}</ref>
| Allgame_SSAT = {{rating|4|5|score=4.1/5 stars}}<ref>{{cite web |last=Williamson |first=Colin |url=http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=1960&tab=review |title=Street Fighter Alpha 2 - Review - allgame |website=[[Allgame]] |date=2014-12-12 |access-date=2016-03-11 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141212045558/http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=1960&tab=review |archive-date=December 12, 2014 }}</ref>
| CVG_PS = {{rating|5|5}}<ref name="cvg"/>
| CVG_SNES = {{rating|4|5}}<ref name=CVGSN>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/stream/Computer_and_Video_Games_Issue_182_1997-01_EMAP_Images_GB#page/n75/mode/1up |title=Computer and Video Games - Issue 182 (1997-01)(EMAP Images)(GB) |website=Archive.org |date=January 1997 |access-date=2016-03-11}}</ref>
| CVG_SSAT = {{rating|5|5}}<ref name="cvg">{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/stream/Computer_and_Video_Games_Issue_181_1996-12_EMAP_Images_GB#page/n61/mode/2up |title=Computer and Video Games - Issue 181 (1996-12)(EMAP Images)(GB) |website=Archive.org |date=December 1996 |access-date=2016-03-11}}</ref>
| EGM_SNES = 21/40<ref name=EGM90>''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]'', issue 90 (January 1997), page 74</ref>
| EGM_SSAT = 36.5/40<ref name="EGM89">''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]'', issue 89 (December 1996), page 84</ref>
| Fam_PS = 32/40<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=6997 |title=ストリートファイターZERO2 まとめ [PS] / ファミ通.com |website=Famitsu.com |date=2014-02-22 |access-date=2016-03-11}}</ref>
| Fam_SSAT = 32/40<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=883 |title=ストリートファイターZERO2 まとめ [セガサターン] / ファミ通.com |website=Famitsu.com |date=2014-02-22 |access-date=2016-03-11}}</ref>
| GameFan_SNES = 228/300<ref>''GameFan'', volume 5, issue 1 (January 1997), page 18</ref>
| GameFan_SSAT = 281/300<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Street Fighter Alpha 2 |magazine=[[GameFan]] |date=November 1996 |volume=4 |issue=11 |pages=18, 122–3 |url=https://retrocdn.net/images/9/9f/GameFan_US_0411.pdf#page=20}}</ref>
| GI_PS = 7.75/10<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.gameinformer.com/oct96/sfa2.htm |title=Street Fighter Alpha 2 |date=1997-01-17 |access-date=2016-03-11 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970117181649/http://www.gameinformer.com/oct96/sfa2.htm |archive-date=January 17, 1997 }}</ref>
| GI_SNES = 8.75/10<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Legacy Review Archives |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/legacyreviews |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181214131120/https://www.gameinformer.com/legacyreviews |url-status=dead |archive-date=December 14, 2018 |magazine=[[Game Informer]] |access-date=3 October 2021}}</ref>
| GMaster_PS = 86%<ref>''GamesMaster'', issue 49 (December 1996), pages 40-41</ref>
| GMaster_SNES = 87%<ref>''GamesMaster'', issue 52 (February 1997), page 63</ref>
| GSpot_SSAT = 8.1/10<ref name="GSSAT">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/street-fighter-alpha-2-review/1900-2534122/ |title=Street Fighter Alpha 2 Review |website=GameSpot |date=1996-12-01 |access-date=2016-03-11}}</ref>
| GSpot_PS = 7.8/10<ref name="GSPS">{{cite web|last=Gerstmann |first=Jeff |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/street-fighter-alpha-2-review/1900-2549537/ |title=Street Fighter Alpha 2 Review |website=GameSpot |date=2013-10-10 |access-date=2016-03-11}}</ref>
| IGN_PS = 8.5/10<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ign.com/articles/1996/12/12/street-fighter-alpha-2-2 |title=Street Fighter Alpha 2 |website=IGN |date=1996-12-11 |access-date=2016-03-11}}</ref>
| PSM_PS = 8/10<ref>Review, Issue 13, December 1996</ref>
| rev1 = ''[[Mean Machines]]''
| rev1_SSAT = 94%<ref>{{cite web|url=http://segaretro.org/index.php?title=File:MeanMachinesSega50UK.pdf&page=66 |title=MeanMachinesSega50UK |publisher=Sega Retro |date=2015-08-02 |access-date=2016-03-11}}</ref>
| NGen_SSAT = {{rating|4|5}}<ref name="NGen24">{{cite magazine|title=Street Fighter Alpha 2|magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=24|publisher=[[Imagine Media]] |date=December 1996|page=266}}</ref>
| rev3 = ''[[Sega Saturn Magazine]]''
| rev3_SSAT = 95%<ref name="SatMag13rev">{{cite magazine |last=Automatic|first=Rad |title=Review: Street Fighter Alpha 2|magazine=[[Sega Saturn Magazine]]|issue=13 |publisher=[[Emap International Limited]]|date=November 1996|pages=66–67}}</ref>
| award1Pub = [[:jp:ゲーメスト大賞|10th ''Gamest'' Awards]] (Winner)
| award1 = [[List of Game of the Year awards|Best Game of 1996]], <br /> Best Fighting Game, <br /> Top Character ([[Dan Hibiki|Dan&nbsp;Hibiki]])<ref name=gamest10th/>
| award2Pub = [[:jp:ゲーメスト大賞|10th ''Gamest'' Awards]] (Nominee)
| award2 = Best Graphics (#9), <br /> Best Direction (#6), <br /> Best VGM (#4)<ref name=gamest10th/>
| award3Pub = ''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]''
| award3 = Arcade Game of the Year, <br /> Saturn Game of the Year (Runner-Up), <br /> Fighting Game of the Year (Runner-Up)<ref>''Electronic Gaming Monthly'', issue 92 (March 1997), pages 82-91</ref>
| award4Pub = [[GameFan#Golden Megawards|''GameFan'' Megawards]]
| award4 = Fighting Game of the Year, <br /> Coin-Op Game of the Year (Runner-Up)<ref>''GameFan'', volume 5, issue 2 (February 1997), pages 34-36</ref>
| award5Pub = [[GamePro|''GamePro'' Readers' Choice Awards]]
| award5 = 5th Best Arcade Game, <br /> 5th Best Fighting Game<ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/stream/GamePro_Issue_106_Volume_09_Number_07_1997-07_IDG_Publishing_US#page/n31/mode/2up |title=GamePro - Issue 106 Volume 09 Number 07 (1997-07)(IDG Publishing)(US) |website=Archive.org |date=July 1997 |access-date=2016-03-11}}</ref>
| GR_SNES = 75% (5 reviews)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/snes/588699-street-fighter-alpha-2/index.html |title=Street Fighter Alpha 2 (SNES) on Gamerankings |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209014725/http://www.gamerankings.com/snes/588699-street-fighter-alpha-2/index.html |archive-date=9 December 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
}}


==Ports==
===Arcade===
In Japan, ''Game Machine'' listed ''Street Fighter Zero 2'' on their May 1, 1996 issue as being the most-successful arcade game of the month, outperforming titles such as ''[[Virtua Fighter 2]]''.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Game Machine's Best Hit Games 25 - TVゲーム機ーソフトウェア (Video Game Software)|magazine=[[:ja:ゲームマシン|Game Machine]]|issue=517|publisher=[[:ja:アミューズメント通信社|Amusement Press, Inc.]]|date=1 May 1996|page=25|lang=ja}}</ref> ''Street Fighter Zero 2'' went on to be the highest-grossing [[1996 in video games|arcade game of 1996]] in Japan.<ref>{{cite magazine |script-title=ja:第10回 ゲーメスト大賞 |trans-title=10th Gamest Awards |magazine=[[Gamest]] |date=December 27, 1996 |volume=188 (January–February 1997) |pages=46–63 |lang=ja}} [http://www.netlaputa.ne.jp/~dummy/gamest/magazine/gamest/v188.html alternate url]</ref> ''Game Machine'' also listed ''Street Fighter Zero 2 Alpha'' on their October 1, 1996 issue as being the second most-successful arcade game of the month.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Game Machine's Best Hit Games 25 - TVゲーム機ーソフトウェア (Video Game Software)|magazine=[[:ja:ゲームマシン|Game Machine]]|issue=527|publisher=[[:ja:アミューズメント通信社|Amusement Press, Inc.]]|date=1 October 1996|page=25|lang=ja}}</ref>
The game was ported to both the Sony PlayStation and the Sega Saturn. Unlike the previous game, the Saturn version was superior to it's PlayStation counterpart. The Saturn version featured fluid animation closer to the Arcade, featured all the hidden characters plus a special version of Sakura, and had faster loading times. A Windows version was also released, but was based on the PlayStation version of the game.


A reviewer for ''[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]'' gave the arcade version 3 out of 5 stars, praising the large number of characters, smooth animation, innovative backgrounds, and "wonderful" character design. He deemed the custom combos "an unprecedented, new, and complex innovation in ''Street Fighter'' gameplay", though he found some points of their implementation to be odd. He concluded, "Although it's just another 2D fighter for those who aren't paying attention, this is a fine new addition for true hard-core gameplayers."<ref>{{cite magazine|title=2D or Not 2D? |magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=18|publisher=[[Imagine Media]] |date=June 1996|page=129}}</ref>
Surprisingly, Capcom ported the game onto the [[Super NES]]. This was possible thanks in part to the [[S-DD1 chip]], a chip used for graphic decompression. Despite doubts from fans that it could be done, it is a competent port; featuring all 18 characters featured in the Arcade version. With the exception of Classic Chun-Li, no other secret characters are available. Shin Akuma, however, can be fought against. Also, some graphic down-scaling was done, making characters look smaller and the animations are less fluid. The gameplay, however, is in tact and the game is regarded as one of the best Super NES fighting games.


In the Japanese arcade magazine ''[[:jp:Gamest|Gamest]]'', ''Street Fighter Zero 2'' was voted [[List of Game of the Year awards|Best Game of 1996]] in the [[:jp:ゲーメスト大賞|Tenth Annual Grand Prize]]. ''Zero 2'' was also No. 1 in the category of "Best Fighting Game", No. 9 in "Best Graphics", No. 6 in "Best Direction", and No. 4 in "Best VGM (Video Game Music)". [[Dan Hibiki]] and [[Sakura Kasugano]] were depicted on the cover of this issue, who were placed No. 1 and No. 3 respectively on the Top 50 Characters of 1996, with [[Ryu (Street Fighter)|Ryu]] at No. 13, [[Zangief]] at No. 18 (sharing the spot with [[Mature (The King of Fighters)|Mature]] from ''[[The King of Fighters '96]]''), [[Guy (Final Fight)|Guy]] at No. 26, [[Chun-Li]] at No. 32, [[Akuma (Street Fighter)|Akuma]] at No. 37 (sharing the spot with two other characters), [[Rolento]] at No. 45 (sharing the spot with the Elf from ''[[Dungeons & Dragons: Shadow over Mystara]]'') and [[Ken Masters|Ken]] at No. 49 (sharing the spot with two other characters).<ref name=gamest10th>{{cite journal |last=Ishii |first=Zenji |date=December 1996 |title=第10回ゲーメスト大賞 |journal=Gamest Magazine |volume=188 |page=46 |url=http://www.netlaputa.ne.jp/~dummy/gamest/magazine/gamest/v188.html |access-date=2008-12-28 }}</ref>
==Updates==
===''Street Fighter Zero 2 Alpha''===
''Street Fighter Zero 2 Alpha'' was released in Japan, Asia, South America and Spain in [[1996]] due to the presence of the additional characters in the English localization of '''Street Fighter Alpha 2''. The game features new moves for some characters, and includes an improved version of Dramatic Battle, a Shin Gouki Mode, and a Survival Mode. In addition Zangief and Dhalsim having alternate versions that played like their classic counterparts, the game also included classic versions of [[Ryu]], [[Ken]], [[Chun-Li]], [[Sagat]], and [[M. Bison]]. Evil Ryu makes his Japanese debut in this game.


===Ports===
===''Street Fighter Alpha 2 Gold''===
The Saturn and PlayStation ports both received praise for their faithfulness to their arcade counterpart,<ref name="EGM89"/><ref name="GSSAT"/><ref name="GSPS"/><ref name="GProPS">{{cite magazine|title=PlayStation ProReview: Street Fighter Alpha 2|magazine=[[GamePro]]|issue=98|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]] |date=November 1996|page=108}}</ref><ref name="GProSAT">{{cite magazine|title=Saturn ProReview: Street Fighter Alpha 2|magazine=[[GamePro]]|issue=98|publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|date=November 1996|page=120}}</ref> large selection of characters,<ref name=EGM89/><ref name=SatMag13rev/><ref name=GProPS/><ref name=GProSAT/> and replacement of the easily exploited chain combo system from the original ''Street Fighter Alpha''.<ref name=EGM89/><ref name=GSPS/><ref name=NGen24/><ref name=GProPS/><ref name=GProSAT/> Some critics, while acknowledging that the 2D fighting game genre was outdated, held ''Street Fighter Alpha 2'' to be equal or even superior to any of the 3D fighting games then on the market.<ref name="EGM89"/><ref name="GSPS"/> The Saturn version tied with the PlayStation version of ''[[Tomb Raider (1996 video game)|Tomb Raider]]'' for ''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]''{{'}}s "Game of the Month".<ref name=EGM89/> Though ''EGM'' never reviewed the PlayStation version of ''Alpha 2'', in an overview of fighting games released in 1996 Sushi-X commented, "Both the Saturn and PlayStation versions are great, but the Saturn version has a few advantages", citing frames of animation that were missing from the PlayStation version and the Saturn-exclusive illustrations mode.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Sushi-X's Guide to Domestic Violence: In Other Words the Best Home System Fighting Games of 1996|magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]|issue=91|publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=February 1997|page=91}}</ref> The following year, ''EGM'' named the Saturn version the 36th best console video game of all time, saying they chose the Saturn version specifically due to its superior graphics.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=100 Best Games of All Time |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]|issue=100 |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=November 1997|page=136}} Note: Contrary to the title, the intro to the article (on page 100) explicitly states that the list covers console video games only, meaning PC games and arcade games were not eligible.</ref>
''Street Fighter Zero 2 Alpha'' was soon ported over to home consoles under the name ''Street Fighter Zero 2 Dash'' in Japan. The game was eventually released North America and PAL versions as a part of the ''[[Street Fighter Collection]]'' as ''Street Fighter Alpha 2 Gold'' for the PlayStation and Saturn. With the exception of ''Dramatic Battle'', all the new features of the Arcade version made it onto the home consoles. [[Cammy]] was also added a playable character in Versus Mode.


The Saturn port was also a commercial success, selling over 400,000 units in Japan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://segaretro.org/index.php?title=File%3ASSM_JP_19971114_1997-39.pdf&page=69|title=Sega Saturn Magazine (JP)}}</ref>
===Differences between versions===
* The English localization of the Arcade was the first version of the game to feature Evil Ryu, EX Dhalsim and EX Zangief. These characters also made an appearance on the Saturn version. However, these characters originally did not appear in Street Fighter Zero 2 and the PlayStation version.
* Unlike the first game, the PlayStation and Saturn version of the game features all remixed music. These remixes would eventually be used as the main music on the [[Street Fighter Alpha Anthology]] version of '''Street Fighter Alpha 2 Gold'''. The Arcade version of the opening theme is on the Saturn version of the game as Track 2 when put in a CD player.
* Although the PlayStation and Saturn versions of the game feature the same remixed music, Sakura's theme sounds slightly different when compared (The Saturn version of the theme is also used in [[Street Fighter Alpha Anthology]]).
* As with the previous game, the Windows version of '''Street Fighter Alpha 2''' is based on the PlayStation version. This includes the lower animation framerate. The music, however, is taken straight from the Arcade.
* The Windows version of '''Street Fighter Alpha 2''' also featured the same wav. file trick.
* Along with the lack of hidden characters, the Super NES version lacks the Venezuela stage.
* Because of graphical limitations, some characters feature modified or completely different introductions on the Super NES version (i.e. Dhalsim warps in rather than remove his turban; Zangief runs in and grunts rather than removing his cape; etc.).
* Cammy's Theme song in '''Street Fighter Alpha 2 Gold''' differs between consoles. The Saturn version plays the Arcade version of her theme from ''[[X-Men vs. Street Fighter]]''. The PlayStation version, on the other hand, is a remixed version of that same song.


The Super NES version was much less well-received, with reviews commenting that the sound quality is exceptionally poor,<ref name=EGM90/><ref name=GProSN>{{cite magazine|title=Super NES ProReview: Street Fighter Alpha 2|magazine=[[GamePro]]|issue=101 |publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]]|date=February 1997|page=86}}</ref> the animation is choppy,<ref name=CVGSN/><ref name=EGM90/><ref name=GProSN/> and the overambitious graphics cause the game to play at an agonizingly slow speed, compounded by bouts of slowdown when performing special moves.<ref name=CVGSN/><ref name=EGM90/><ref name=GProSN/> Shawn Smith and Dan Hsu of ''Electronic Gaming Monthly'' deemed it the worst ''Street Fighter'' game for the Super NES.<ref name=EGM90/> Most critics were more forgiving, concluding that, despite the port's flaws, it was a decent buy for gamers who did not own a Saturn or PlayStation.<ref name=CVGSN/><ref name=EGM90/><ref name=GProSN/> ''[[IGN]]'' ranked the game 96th on their "Top 100 SNES Games of All Time" saying the game pushed the limits of the SNES and so had to make some compromises, and concluded: "But it's hard to fault the effort, and that's why it deserves this rank and recognition."<ref>{{Cite web|title=Top 100 SNES Games of All Time |website=IGN|url=https://www.ign.com/lists/top-100-snes-games|language=en|access-date=2022-01-27}}</ref> In 2018, [[Complex Networks|Complex]] listed the game 71st in their "The Best Super Nintendo Games of All Time" saying the game had loading times before the fights and graphics that were not as good as on the other ports, concluding, "Nonetheless, the gameplay was still on point, and the bells and whistles were pretty amazing for an SNES game. We loved it."<ref>{{Cite web|last=Knight|first=Rich|date=April 30, 2018|title=The Best Super Nintendo Games of All Time|url=https://www.complex.com/pop-culture/the-100-best-super-nintendo-games/|access-date=2022-01-28|website=Complex|language=en}}</ref>
==External links==

*{{KLOV game|id=9804|name=Street Fighter Alpha 2}}
{{Clear}}
*{{StrategyWiki|Street Fighter Alpha 2}}

==Notes==
{{notelist}}


==References==
==References==
{{reflist}}
{{Reflist|30em}}

==Sources==
*{{cite book|title=Street Fighter Alpha 2 Strategy Guide|first1=Jason |last1=Cole | first2=Jeff |last2=Schaefer |first3=Matt |last3=Taylor | first4=Mike | last4=Watson |first5=Graham | last5=Wolfe|year=1996|publisher=Empire 21 Publishing, Inc.}}
*{{cite book|title=All About Capcom Head-to-Head Fighting Games 1987-2000|language=ja|date=Sep 2000|isbn=4-88554-676-1|series=A.A. Game History Series (Vol. 1)|author=Studio Bent Stuff|publisher=Dempa Publications, Inc.}}

==External links==
*{{KLOV game|id=9804|name=Street Fighter Alpha 2}}


{{Street Fighter series}}
{{Street Fighter series}}
{{Authority control}}


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Latest revision as of 02:58, 30 December 2024

Street Fighter Alpha 2
Developer(s)Capcom
Publisher(s)
Capcom
Composer(s)Setsuo Yamamoto
Syun Nishigaki
Tatsuro Suzuki
SeriesStreet Fighter
Platform(s)Arcade, PlayStation, Sega Saturn, SNES, Windows
Release
March 25, 1996
  • Arcade
    • JP: March 25, 1996[1]
    • NA: March 1996
    PlayStation
    • JP: August 9, 1996
    • NA: November 1, 1996[2]
    • AU: October 18, 1996
    • EU: November 16, 1996
    Sega Saturn
    • JP: September 14, 1996
    • NA: November 1, 1996[2]
    • EU: November 16, 1996
    SNES
    • NA: October 28, 1996[3]
    • EU: December 19, 1996
    • JP: December 20, 1996
    Windows
    • NA: November 1, 1997
    • JP: March 12, 1998
    • EU: 1998
Genre(s)Fighting
Mode(s)Single-player, multiplayer
Arcade systemCP System II

Street Fighter Alpha 2, known as Street Fighter Zero 2[a] in Japan, Asia, South America, and Oceania, is a 1996 fighting game originally released for the CPS II arcade hardware by Capcom. The game is a remake of the previous year's Street Fighter Alpha: Warriors' Dreams and features a number of improvements, such as new attacks, stages, endings, and gameplay features. It was ported to the PlayStation, Sega Saturn and Super Nintendo home consoles globally in 1996, and later a Windows port. It was followed by Street Fighter Alpha 3 in 1998.

Gameplay

[edit]

Street Fighter Alpha 2 retains most of the new features introduced in the original Street Fighter Alpha, such as the three-level Super Combo gauge, Alpha Counters, Air-Blocking, and Fall Breaking. The main new feature in the game is the inclusion of the Custom Combo system (Original Combo in Japan), which replaces the Chain Combos from the first Alpha.[4] If the Super Combo gauge is on Lv. 1 or above, the player can initiate a Custom Combo pressing two punch buttons and a kick or one punch button and two kicks.[5] The player can then perform any series of basic and special moves to create a Custom Combo until the Timer Gauge at the bottom of the screen runs out. The characters Guy and Gen can still perform Chain Combos, but only to a limited extent. Additionally, each character now has two Alpha Counters instead of just one: one that can be performed with a kick button and another with a punch button.[6]

The single-player mode, much like the original Street Fighter Alpha 2, consists of eight matches against computer-controlled opponents, including a fixed final opponent whose identity depends on the player's selected character. Each character also has a secret "rival" whom they can face during the course of the single-player mode. After meeting certain requirements, the rival will interrupt one of the player's matches and exchange dialogue with the player's character, and the player character will then fight the rival instead.[5] With Akuma now a regular character, a more powerful version of the character dubbed "Shin Akuma" replaces him as a secret opponent. Unlike Super Turbo and the original Alpha, Shin Akuma challenges the player before the player's final opponent, rather than as an alternate final boss.

Characters

[edit]

The game brings back all thirteen characters from Street Fighter Alpha, with M. Bison, Akuma, and Dan now being immediately selectable as playable characters. In addition to the Alpha roster, Alpha 2 includes Dhalsim and Zangief, both from Street Fighter II, Gen, an assassin from the original Street Fighter, Rolento, a member of the Mad Gear gang who originally appeared in Final Fight, and newcomer Sakura, a Japanese schoolgirl who takes up street fighting after witnessing one of Ryu's battles.[7] The game also features a "classic-style" alternative version of Chun-Li where she is wearing her outfit from the Street Fighter II series.

Development

[edit]

According to Capcom senior planner Shinji Mikami, "When we were trying to get the balance of Alpha 2 right we only concentrated on Alpha 2. That's the one that's important. We don't really have to get the actual same damage as Alpha. In Alpha 2 some new characters were introduced, so in order to maintain the game balance we had to increase the damage for the normal hits. In addition, this time for Alpha 2 we wanted to focus on the importance of the normal hits and not just the specials."[8]

Street Fighter Alpha 2 was first unveiled at the February 1996 AOU show in Tokyo.[9]

Both Manga Entertainment/A.P.P.P. and Group TAC developed OVA adaptations based on the game, titled Street Fighter Alpha: The Animation (2000) and Street Fighter Alpha: Generations (2005), which were both co-produced by Kaoru Mfaume. All of the characters except Gen and Dan also have roles in the Canadian-American cartoon Street Fighter: The Animated Series.

Versions

[edit]

Arcade

[edit]

Street Fighter Alpha 2 was released under the title Street Fighter Zero 2 in Japan, Asia, and South America. The North American and European versions of Alpha 2 feature three additional characters who were not in the Zero 2 version: Evil Ryu and alternative versions of Dhalsim and Zangief known as EX versions, where they use their movesets from the Street Fighter II series and do not have access to the Super Combo gauge.[7] These three characters were selected by Capcom USA.[8]

Capcom also released an updated version of Zero 2 titled Street Fighter Zero 2 Alpha in Japan, Asia, and South America, which features all the additional characters from Alpha 2, as well as other changes to the game. In addition to Zangief and Dhalsim, Zero 2 Alpha also features EX versions of Ryu, Ken, Chun-Li (where she is wearing her outfit from the Street Fighter II series, similarly to the "classic-style" version of her), Sagat, and M. Bison, all of whom were characters from Street Fighter II: Champion Edition. Custom Combos are now executed by pressing a punch and kick button of the same strength simultaneously and now require half (1+1⁄2 level) of the Super Combo gauge filled to perform them. Some of the characters have gained new moves such as Ryu's Shakunetsu Hadouken and Dhalsim's Yoga Tempest. Zero 2 Alpha also features a survival mode, as well as a 2-on-1 Dramatic Battle mode similar to the hidden "Ryu and Ken vs. Bison mode" in the original Alpha. In this version, Evil Ryu has different dialogue exchanges and a different ending from his regular counterpart.

Home versions

[edit]
  • Street Fighter Alpha 2 was ported to the PlayStation and Sega Saturn in 1996. The PlayStation version features an arranged soundtrack (in the form of XA-Audio), while the Saturn version uses an arranged soundtrack in a streaming ADPCM format (which looped properly like in the arcade version). Both versions feature Shin Akuma as a selectable character via a secret code (which differs between the two versions; the PlayStation version requires players to move the cursor in a pattern which forms the letter Z on the character select screen; the Saturn version requires a pattern that forms an X), in addition to the "classic-style" Chun-Li. The Saturn version is the only one of the two versions to feature the characters Evil Ryu, EX Dhalsim, and EX Zangief from the North American and European arcade versions. The Saturn version also features an exclusive survival mode, as well as an art gallery.[6] The PlayStation version of Street Fighter Alpha 2 was re-released for the PSP and PlayStation 3 via the PlayStation Network on June 4, 2009 in North America.
  • The SNES version was also released in 1996. Since third-party publishers such as Capcom were increasingly concentrating on CD-based consoles, outside of Japan this version was published by Nintendo instead of Capcom.[10] It makes use of the S-DD1 chip for on-the-fly graphic decompression.[11] Despite the graphics decompression chip, this version has loading times when entering matches while sounds are loaded onto the sound chip. Unlike the PlayStation and Saturn versions, the only secret characters available to the player are the "classic-style" Chun-Li and Shin Akuma.[12] This version was re-released for the Virtual Console in North America on December 7, 2009[13] and in the PAL region on January 29, 2010 for the Wii, and in North America on May 22, 2014, and in the PAL region on October 2, 2014 for the Wii U.
  • A Windows PC version was also released; based on the PlayStation version (but using the arcade soundtrack in 22 kHz WAV format) in 1997. This version was sold as a bundle with the original Alpha in Japan. The Windows PC version was re-released on GOG.com in 2012.
  • A home console version of Street Fighter Zero 2 Alpha was released under the title Street Fighter Alpha 2 Gold in North America, Street Fighter Alpha 2 (Prime) in Europe[citation needed], and Street Fighter Zero 2 (Dash)[14] in Japan, as part of the Street Fighter Collection, a compilation released on the PlayStation and Sega Saturn that also includes Super Street Fighter II and Super Street Fighter II Turbo. Alpha 2 Gold features most of the same changes, features, and game modes as the arcade version of Zero 2 Alpha, only omitting the 2-on-1 Dramatic Battle mode from that version. In addition to all of the characters featured in previous versions of Alpha 2 (including the console-exclusive Shin Akuma), Gold features a version of Cammy based on her rendition from X-Men vs. Street Fighter, who appears as a hidden character selectable only in the game's Versus and Training modes (the latter only in the Saturn Version, as it is absent from the PlayStation version). The game also features an "Akuma Mode", where the player can fight against Shin Akuma immediately. This version was re-released in Japan as a standalone game in the PlayStation the Best and Satakore budget games lines.
  • The 2006 PlayStation 2 compilation Street Fighter Alpha Anthology features a version of the original Alpha 2 based on the arcade game, as well as a revised version of Alpha 2 Gold which features Cammy as a selectable character in the game's arcade mode (with her own storyline and ending). Both games feature Dramatic Battle and Survival modes in addition to the Arcade, Versus, and Training modes. The Japanese version of the compilation (Street Fighter Zero: Fighters' Generation) features the arcade versions of Zero 2 and Zero 2 Alpha, as well as the US version of Alpha 2 and the revised version of Zero 2 (Dash) with the playable Cammy as hidden games.
  • Street Fighter Alpha 2 was ported to the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Steam, and Nintendo Switch as part of the Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection released in May 2018. This version is arcade-perfect and does not carry over the coding used in earlier home console versions. Save states are available to allow the player to resume from where they left. The Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection does not include the Alpha 2 Gold update.

Reception

[edit]

Arcade

[edit]

In Japan, Game Machine listed Street Fighter Zero 2 on their May 1, 1996 issue as being the most-successful arcade game of the month, outperforming titles such as Virtua Fighter 2.[44] Street Fighter Zero 2 went on to be the highest-grossing arcade game of 1996 in Japan.[45] Game Machine also listed Street Fighter Zero 2 Alpha on their October 1, 1996 issue as being the second most-successful arcade game of the month.[46]

A reviewer for Next Generation gave the arcade version 3 out of 5 stars, praising the large number of characters, smooth animation, innovative backgrounds, and "wonderful" character design. He deemed the custom combos "an unprecedented, new, and complex innovation in Street Fighter gameplay", though he found some points of their implementation to be odd. He concluded, "Although it's just another 2D fighter for those who aren't paying attention, this is a fine new addition for true hard-core gameplayers."[47]

In the Japanese arcade magazine Gamest, Street Fighter Zero 2 was voted Best Game of 1996 in the Tenth Annual Grand Prize. Zero 2 was also No. 1 in the category of "Best Fighting Game", No. 9 in "Best Graphics", No. 6 in "Best Direction", and No. 4 in "Best VGM (Video Game Music)". Dan Hibiki and Sakura Kasugano were depicted on the cover of this issue, who were placed No. 1 and No. 3 respectively on the Top 50 Characters of 1996, with Ryu at No. 13, Zangief at No. 18 (sharing the spot with Mature from The King of Fighters '96), Guy at No. 26, Chun-Li at No. 32, Akuma at No. 37 (sharing the spot with two other characters), Rolento at No. 45 (sharing the spot with the Elf from Dungeons & Dragons: Shadow over Mystara) and Ken at No. 49 (sharing the spot with two other characters).[39]

Ports

[edit]

The Saturn and PlayStation ports both received praise for their faithfulness to their arcade counterpart,[23][32][33][48][49] large selection of characters,[23][38][48][49] and replacement of the easily exploited chain combo system from the original Street Fighter Alpha.[23][33][37][48][49] Some critics, while acknowledging that the 2D fighting game genre was outdated, held Street Fighter Alpha 2 to be equal or even superior to any of the 3D fighting games then on the market.[23][33] The Saturn version tied with the PlayStation version of Tomb Raider for Electronic Gaming Monthly's "Game of the Month".[23] Though EGM never reviewed the PlayStation version of Alpha 2, in an overview of fighting games released in 1996 Sushi-X commented, "Both the Saturn and PlayStation versions are great, but the Saturn version has a few advantages", citing frames of animation that were missing from the PlayStation version and the Saturn-exclusive illustrations mode.[50] The following year, EGM named the Saturn version the 36th best console video game of all time, saying they chose the Saturn version specifically due to its superior graphics.[51]

The Saturn port was also a commercial success, selling over 400,000 units in Japan.[52]

The Super NES version was much less well-received, with reviews commenting that the sound quality is exceptionally poor,[22][53] the animation is choppy,[21][22][53] and the overambitious graphics cause the game to play at an agonizingly slow speed, compounded by bouts of slowdown when performing special moves.[21][22][53] Shawn Smith and Dan Hsu of Electronic Gaming Monthly deemed it the worst Street Fighter game for the Super NES.[22] Most critics were more forgiving, concluding that, despite the port's flaws, it was a decent buy for gamers who did not own a Saturn or PlayStation.[21][22][53] IGN ranked the game 96th on their "Top 100 SNES Games of All Time" saying the game pushed the limits of the SNES and so had to make some compromises, and concluded: "But it's hard to fault the effort, and that's why it deserves this rank and recognition."[54] In 2018, Complex listed the game 71st in their "The Best Super Nintendo Games of All Time" saying the game had loading times before the fights and graphics that were not as good as on the other ports, concluding, "Nonetheless, the gameplay was still on point, and the bells and whistles were pretty amazing for an SNES game. We loved it."[55]

Notes

[edit]
  1. ^ Japanese: ストリートファイターZERO/2

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "ヒストリー ストリートファイター35周年記念サイト". Capcom JP.
  2. ^ a b "The Buzz -- October - November News". Escapade. Archived from the original on March 31, 1997. Retrieved December 25, 2023.
  3. ^ "Street Fighter Alpha 2 for Super NES to Hit October 28th". Game Informer. September 11, 1996. Archived from the original on February 18, 1999.
  4. ^ "Street Fighter Alpha 2: The Latest SF Comes Home to the PlayStation". Electronic Gaming Monthly. No. 88. Ziff Davis. November 1996. p. 220.
  5. ^ a b "Street Fighter Alpha 2". Electronic Gaming Monthly. No. 85. Ziff Davis. August 1996. pp. 48–49.
  6. ^ a b Bright, Rob (November 1996). "Return to Alpha". Sega Saturn Magazine. No. 13. Emap International Limited. pp. 36–42.
  7. ^ a b "Street Fighter Alpha 2". Sega Saturn Magazine. No. 12. Emap International Limited. October 1996. pp. 16–18.
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Sources

[edit]
  • Cole, Jason; Schaefer, Jeff; Taylor, Matt; Watson, Mike; Wolfe, Graham (1996). Street Fighter Alpha 2 Strategy Guide. Empire 21 Publishing, Inc.
  • Studio Bent Stuff (Sep 2000). All About Capcom Head-to-Head Fighting Games 1987-2000. A.A. Game History Series (Vol. 1) (in Japanese). Dempa Publications, Inc. ISBN 4-88554-676-1.
[edit]
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