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When it comes to fighting games, I have put up with a lot from Capcom. When Super Street Fighter 4: Arcade Edition came out, I hoped that any updates to Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds would be made available as downloadable content.
Then Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 was announced.
This latest entry leaves me conflicted. My educated-consumer side feels cheated, but my avid-fan side wants to shell out the money because of the hype.
It's worth noting that Ultimate is coming out less than a year after the original. What's the need for such a fast turnaround? Some of the initial feedback for Fate of Two Worlds might have been harsh, but making it obsolete so quickly seems worse than just tweaking the balance.
On the other hand, Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 promises 12 new characters, and it's likely that several mechanics, like X-Factor, will be refined. We're also getting spectator mode. Nearly every other fighter offers players something to watch while they're waiting for their matches to begin. Currently, additional characters for Fate of Two Worlds have been priced around $5. Using this rough metric, the 12 new fighters in the upcoming edition would be worth around $60, but we're getting these new combatants and gameplay updates for $39.99.
If Capcom stays the course, does that mean a third iteration is inevitable? Will fans accept Ultimate? Will new criticisms lead to the creation of another version in an even shorter amount of time? I can only spend so much money.
Who am I kidding, it's all about the characters when it comes to Marvel. The thought of surrendering my money to another one of Capcom's schemes makes me want to cry, but I'm sold. Not only are Frank West and Strider returning to the Versus series, Phoenix Wright is making his fan-requested debut. Rocket Raccoon will be fighting as well.
A raccoon? Shut up and take my money, Capcom.