In the world of esports, there’s a special place for fighting games and the passionate community that surrounds them. As an esports fanatic, I couldn’t help but be drawn to the electrifying world of the Fighting Game Community (FGC) and its legendary figures like Daigo Umehara and Justin Wong. The allure of their skill and the rich history of games like Street Fighter propelled me to take a leap into the latest instalment of the series, Street Fighter 6.

As a newcomer with little fighting game experience, my journey into the world of Street Fighter 6 was filled with excitement, challenges, and unexpected discoveries.

Initial Thoughts

The first time I stepped into the virtual arena of Street Fighter 6, I realized that mastering the game would require more than button-mashing. Combos, fast reflexes, and precise execution were the hallmarks of success. As someone with a less-than-perfect memory, I struggled with memorizing the moves and executing them accurately. It was disheartening at first, but the more I immersed myself in tutorials and watched exhilarating tournaments, the stronger my determination grew.

It should be noted that I opted for the Classic controls as numpad notations were just easier for me to read. But in spite of that, memorizing moves and executing them with finesse was a hurdle I had to overcome. Hours of practice and trial-and-error slowly honed my muscle memory, leading to incremental improvements. The path to mastery may be long, but progress came with each session spent in the training room. Even now, I’m still learning to do certain moves consistently. But what can I expect?

With no prior experience in fighting games, Street Fighter 6 introduced me to a whole new realm of gameplay. The online resources became my lifeline, as I devoured guides and tutorials on YouTube. Learning from experienced players and streamers provided valuable insights into character matchups, strategies, and advanced techniques. It was a community built on sharing knowledge and fostering growth.

World Tour

Beyond the exhilarating gameplay, Street Fighter 6 surprised me with its World Tour mode—a captivating blend of an RPG and a fighting game career. Customizing my own character and interacting with the vibrant Street Fighter universe added an extra layer of immersion. The mode offered a unique sense of progression and connection to the game’s legacy.

Choosing a main character was a pivotal decision in my journey. Jamie, a footsie character with an intricate drinking mechanic, caught my attention. Despite the initial complexity, I was drawn to his play style. However, during the World Tour mode, I found myself gravitating toward Ken’s fighting style, which felt more intuitive. Experimentation and adaptation played a crucial role in finding the right fit.

Along my journey, I discovered the importance of defensive play and blocking—a skill I had neglected in previous button-mashing sessions. Understanding the nuances of defence not only improved my survivability in matches but also deepened my appreciation for the intricacies of the game.

While I was eager to test my skills against other players online, my initial attempts left me battered and bruised. Recognizing that I needed more practice and confidence, I chose to focus on refining my abilities before venturing into the competitive realm.

Street Fighter 6 has surpassed my expectations, not only as a fighting game but also as a vessel for the game’s rich legacy. From the moment I laid my hands on the controller, I was captivated for ten straight hours—a testament to the game’s immersive and enjoyable nature. It is a testament to the dedication of the developers and the passion of the community that continues to carry the torch.

For anyone interested in getting into Street Fighter 6 or fighting games in general, my advice is simple: practice. It’s never too late to join in on the fun and experience the thrill of competitive battles.

The fighting game community is a haven of passionate players who are always willing to share their knowledge and help newcomers improve. Don’t be discouraged by the learning curve; every combo mastered and every victory earned is a testament to your growth as a player.

My journey into Street Fighter 6 has not only led me to appreciate the game itself but has also expanded my horizons within the fighting game genre. Inspired by my experience, I delved into Tekken 7 and Super Smash Bros. Melee, discovering new challenges and different playstyles. I even invested in a GameCube controller to fully immerse myself in the world of Super Smash Bros. Melee.

To deepen my connection with the fighting game community, I attended a Street Fighter 6 launch tournament. Witnessing high-level players in action, their swift and precise movements with their fighting sticks was awe-inspiring.

The dedication and years of practice poured into their craft were evident, and it reminded me of the boundless potential that lies within the realm of fighting games.

Getting into Street Fighter 6 in 2023 has been a thrilling journey of growth, learning, and unearthing the joy of competitive gaming. From the initial challenges of memorizing moves to finding the right character and discovering the intricacies of gameplay, every step has been a testament to the enduring legacy of the Street Fighter series. With an ever-welcoming community and a game that transcends generations, Street Fighter 6 stands as a testament to the enduring power and timeless appeal of fighting games.