Backwards Compatible #9 - Super Street Fighter 2: The New Challengers (SNES)

In episode 9 of "Backwards Compatible: A Generation 'S' Podcast," Lou makes his triumphant return as we jump into the world of "Street Fighter II," focusing on "Super Street Fighter II: The New Challengers" for the SNES—the definitive way to experience this iconic fighter on home consoles. We explore the various iterations of the game, discussing how each version contributed to its legacy, but we give special attention to "Super Street Fighter II" for its refined mechanics and expanded roster of fighters.

As we dissect what made "Street Fighter II" a cornerstone of the 2D fighting genre in the early '90s, we share our favorite characters, stages, and notably, the unforgettable stage music that remains unmatched in its energy and ability to set the tone for battle. We also delve into why subsequent entries like "Street Fighter III" and the "Alpha" series didn't capture the same widespread allure, despite their technical advancements and deeper mechanics. As always, we sprinkle in some pop culture notes from July 1993 to paint a full picture of the era when "Street Fighter II" was king of the arcade and home console scene. Join Lou and me as we celebrate the game that truly defined a genre and continues to influence the world of fighting games today.