Virtua Fighter 4 / JAP

Virtua Fighter 4 is a realistic 3D fighting game from SEGA that impresses on the PlayStation 2 with precise technology and sophisticated gameplay. As the fourth installment in the legendary Virtua Fighter series, the game focuses on authentic martial arts fights and places particular emphasis on technique, reaction speed and strategic thinking.

In contrast to many other fighting games, Virtua Fighter 4 largely dispenses with exaggerated special effects or weapons and instead concentrates on realistic fighting styles and movement sequences. Each of the more than a dozen fighters - including well-known characters such as Akira, Pai, Jacky or Lau - masters their own real fighting style, such as karate, judo or jeet kune do. Two new characters, Vanessa (Vale Tudo) and Lei-Fei (Shaolin Kung Fu), expand the squad and bring a breath of fresh air to the selection of fighters.

A particular highlight of the PS2 version is the extensive Kumite mode, in which players can compete against a variety of AI opponents, climb the rankings and customize their character with individual outfits and accessories. The fights are fast, tactical and reward precise inputs - button mashing is unlikely to lead to success.

Technically, the game impresses with clean graphics, smooth animations and a realistic physics feel. The minimalist but stylish design fits perfectly with the sober, sporty atmosphere of the game.

Virtua Fighter 4 is not a casual arcade fighting game - it is a serious competitive title that will delight fighting game enthusiasts who appreciate depth and technical gameplay.