SVC Chaos: A Surprise Comeback on PC, Switch, and PS4

SNK's surprise announcement at EVO 2024 sent shockwaves through the fighting game community: SNK vs. Capcom: SVC Chaos is back! Now available on Steam, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation 4, this classic crossover fighter returns with modern enhancements. Xbox fans, however, will have to wait.

Modernized Mayhem

This re-release features a roster of 36 characters, a dream team from both SNK and Capcom universes. Expect familiar faces like Terry Bogard and Mai Shiranui (Fatal Fury), the Mars People (Metal Slug), Tessa (Red Earth), and Capcom stalwarts Ryu and Ken (Street Fighter), amongst others.

The Steam page highlights key improvements: rollback netcode for smooth online play, tournament modes (single, double elimination, and round-robin), a hitbox viewer for advanced players, and a gallery boasting 89 pieces of artwork.

A Legacy Resurrected

SVC Chaos's return is especially significant given its 2003 origins and SNK's subsequent challenges. The company's bankruptcy and acquisition by Aruze, combined with the difficulties transitioning from arcades to home consoles, delayed the game's resurgence for over two decades. Yet, the dedicated fanbase persevered, ensuring this re-release is a testament to the game's enduring appeal.

Capcom's Crossover Future

In a recent interview with Dexerto, Street Fighter 6 producer Shuhei Matsumoto revealed Capcom's ambitions: a potential new Marvel vs. Capcom entry or even a new Capcom/SNK collaboration. While these are long-term goals, Matsumoto emphasized the importance of reintroducing classic titles to a new audience on modern platforms first. Discussions with Marvel, fueled by the enthusiasm surrounding EVO and community tournaments, finally paved the way for the revival of past Marvel titles.

The re-release of SVC Chaos is more than just a nostalgic trip; it's a strategic move, building anticipation for future crossover projects and demonstrating the power of community passion in reviving beloved gaming legacies.