The "Street Fighter" franchise has delivered some of the most iconic characters in video game history. While fighters like Ryu, Ken, and Chun-Li get the lion’s share of the limelight, there are numerous characters in the series who have been tragically overlooked. These fighters, despite their unique abilities and captivating backstories, have often faded into the shadows of the franchise’s more famous faces. In this article, we take a closer look at some of the most underrated fighters in "Street Fighter" history—characters whose skills and stories deserve a second chance in the spotlight.
1. Elena
Elena, hailing from Kenya and first introduced in "Street Fighter III: New Generation," is a character who embodies grace and fluidity in her fighting style. With her unique healing abilities and exceptional range, she can be a formidable opponent in the right hands. Despite her built-in advantages, Elena has often been dismissed in favor of more mainstream characters. Her distinct style, which combines elements of African dance with martial arts, offers a refreshing alternative.
Why She’s Underrated:
Elena’s healing ability, which allows her to recover health during combat, adds an interesting strategic layer to her gameplay. However, this feature leads to misconceptions about her effectiveness, with many believing it makes her weak or easy to counter. Players who take the time to master her can truly showcase her potential, but she often gets overlooked in competitive play.
2. Oro
Introduced in "Street Fighter III," Oro is an ancient warrior with a backstory steeped in mysticism and lore. Sporting a signature one-armed fighting style, he presents a unique challenge to both opponents and players. His moveset includes a range of powerful techniques, and his ability to use a mystical totem adds a layer of strategy to his gameplay.
Why He’s Underrated:
Despite his intriguing design and compelling lore, Oro often takes a backseat to more popular characters. The complexity of his fighting style can be daunting for newcomers, leading to his underutilization in both casual and competitive settings. However, those who invest time in mastering him can unveil a powerful character capable of surprising comebacks.
3. Haggar
The former mayor of Metro City and a professional wrestler, Haggar first made his debut in "Final Fight" before crossing over into the "Street Fighter" universe. With his robust build and grappling techniques, he brings a unique blend of brawler and wrestling skills that can turn the tide of any match.
Why He’s Underrated:
Though Haggar is a fan favorite in certain circles, his presence in competitive play has been sporadic. His heavy-hitting style can be challenging to maneuver effectively against quicker opponents, which often leads players to choose more agile fighters. His true potential lies in his mix-up game and command grabs, but many overlook him in favor of more conventional characters.
4. Ibuki
Ibuki, the kunoichi (female ninja) introduced in "Street Fighter III," combines speed and agility with a diverse set of techniques that showcase her unique ninja training. While she has found some popularity over the years, many players still fail to grasp the depth of her abilities, favoring characters who appear easier to master.
Why She’s Underrated:
Ibuki’s intricate combo opportunities and advanced mix-ups can provide a steep learning curve, which can deter casual players. When utilized effectively, she is a powerhouse with devastating combos and unique tools. However, the difficulty in mastering her makes her underappreciated in competitive circles, despite her potential.
5. Rufus
Rufus made his debut in "Street Fighter IV" as a brash and flamboyant fighter, towering over many of his opponents. While his over-the-top personality and comedic flair garnered some attention, they often overshadow his fighting prowess, leading many to dismiss him as a joke character.
Why He’s Underrated:
Rufus may appear cartoonish, but he boasts a unique skill set that includes rapid movement and devastating dive kicks. His ability to control space and link together powerful combos puts him in a strong position against a variety of opponents. Unfortunately, many players overlook him in favor of more serious characters, leaving him underestimated.
Conclusion
While "Street Fighter" boasts a rich roster of characters, many fighters like Elena, Oro, Haggar, Ibuki, and Rufus deserve recognition for their unique contributions to the series. These underrated fighters bring depth, diversity, and distinctive styles that can add excitement to any match. It’s time for players to rediscover these hidden gems in the "Street Fighter" universe, embracing their potential and the stories that make them truly special. Stepping outside the mainstream can not only enhance one’s personal gaming experience but also breathe new life into the competitive scene, making it richer and more varied than ever before.