Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. Review – The Final Round

Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. Review

Originally released in 2006, Virtua Fighter 5 returns once again, this time with a fresh coat of 4K visuals, refined balance tweaks, and the long-awaited addition of rollback netcode. This latest update aims to deliver the definitive edition of Sega’s revered fighter, but nearly two decades later, does Virtua Fighter 5 still pack a punch?

Virtua Fighter is a brawler that strikes a rare balance between accessibility and depth, letting you test your skills across a diverse roster of iconic martial artists. With just three core buttons, punch, kick, and block, you must weave together attacks in a brutal ballet of precise strikes and counterplays. Each combination unlocks unique attack sequences, further shaped by directional inputs. While the mechanics may seem simple on the surface, the depth is staggering. Success demands careful attention to positioning, distance, and timing. Sidesteps add another layer of strategy, allowing you to evade attacks and exploit openings. Mastering these maneuvers, along with height and angled strikes, creates a well-rounded combat system that remains one of the finest in the genre.

The Art of Fighting

R.E.V.O. not only includes revisions that link to balancing, it also adds more options to attack. New and returning maneuvers flesh out each character’s repertoire which helps to make each battle a unique affair. Not only does this improve matches but it also successfully celebrates the franchise’s rich history and hints at its promising and exciting future.

For newcomers, Virtua Fighter 5 represents the pinnacle of the series, blending the best elements from its predecessors. Players can employ a variety of strategies, from relentless rush down to calculated counterattacks, adapting their approach to gain the upper hand. The diverse roster reflects this flexibility, with each fighter specializing in a distinct martial art. Larger combatants carry their weight with devastating power, while smaller fighters rely on speed, evasion, and rapid counterattacks. However, no one is confined to a single playstyle as adaptability is key to victory. This authenticity allows fans to live out dream matchups, settling age-old debates about which discipline reigns supreme.

The World Warrior

One of the biggest updates with R.E.V.O. is the inclusion of a rollback netcode. The importance of this for online, competitive matches is paramount as this allows for a stronger, stable connection to test your skill with players around the world. Although I did encounter some slow down when competing online, generally, it was a smooth experience and a significant upgrade compared to previous iterations. In addition, certain versions come bundled with all the DLC cosmetic items allowing you to select characters cosplaying as icons from Yakuza or even revert to the blocky aesthetics of Virtua Fighter 2. You can also customize their appearance further with an array of items to create a unique look personalized to your preference. While it doesn’t offer the same level of depth and variety as Tekken 8, it’s a nice feature that allows you to take ownership of the characters.

Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. shows its age with a limited selection of modes. Beyond offline multiplayer and the traditional arcade mode, online play is available but restricted to scheduled tournaments. Players can refine their skills through tutorials, command training, and free training, covering the essentials for competitive play. While these options provide the necessary tools for improvement, the overall package feels bare compared to modern fighters, which often include expansive single-player content, story modes, and deeper progression systems to keep players engaged.

Marginal Gains

It’s instantly clear to see that the visuals have been refined and reworked with touch-ups on textures which are complemented with the 4K resolution upgrade. Although the design is minimalist in comparison to modern fighters, it still manages to look great due to its signature art direction that surpasses its age.

Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. isn’t a revolutionary overhaul, but it refines an already exceptional fighter with sharper visuals, rollback netcode, and improved combat. While these enhancements make for a smoother and more competitive experience, especially online, some players may be disappointed by the lack of new game modes. That said, this remains one of the finest 3D fighters ever made, standing as both a tribute to its legacy and a reminder of what awaits the series’ future. At its budget price, it’s an easy recommendation for both newcomers and veterans.

***PC code provided by the publisher for review***