Street Fighter EX2 Plus is a 2.5D fighting game developed by Arika and published by Capcom for the PlayStation in 1999. An enhanced version of the arcade title Street Fighter EX2, it expands the roster, introduces powerful new combo mechanics, and remains one of the most beloved entries in the Street Fighter EX series. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
What is Street Fighter EX2 Plus?
:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} combines classic Street Fighter gameplay with fully polygonal 3D character models while keeping combat on a traditional 2D plane. It offers fast-paced battles, strategic combo systems, and a large cast featuring both iconic Street Fighter characters and original fighters created by Arika. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Gameplay Overview
Classic 2D Fighting with 3D Graphics
Although the characters and stages are rendered in 3D, matches take place on a two-dimensional fighting plane, preserving the precise gameplay that Street Fighter fans expect.
Excel Combos
The signature Excel Combo system allows players to cancel attacks into extended combo strings, opening the door to creative and high-damage sequences.
Meteor Combos
New to EX2 Plus, Meteor Combos are devastating Level 3 Super Combos that consume the entire Super Combo Gauge and can dramatically turn the tide of a match. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Playable Characters
The game features more than 20 fighters, including legendary Street Fighter veterans and original EX characters.
- Ryu
- Ken
- Chun-Li
- Guile
- Sagat
- M. Bison
- Zangief
- Dhalsim
- Skullomania
- Garuda
- Vulcano Rosso
- Area
- Sharon
- Nanase
- Pullum Purna
- Darun Mister
The PlayStation version also includes Hayate as a secret unlockable character. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Game Modes
- Arcade Mode
- Versus Mode
- Practice Mode
- Director Mode
- Bonus Games
The exclusive Director Mode lets players edit and replay fights from different camera angles, offering a unique feature not commonly seen in fighting games of the era. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Graphics and Sound
Street Fighter EX2 Plus pushes the original PlayStation with detailed polygonal character models, smooth animations, and colorful arenas. While maintaining the feel of classic Street Fighter gameplay, it delivers a fresh visual style that distinguished the EX series.
The soundtrack features energetic themes composed by Takayuki Aihara, Shinji Hosoe, and Ayako Saso, perfectly complementing the game’s fast-paced action. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Why Street Fighter EX2 Plus Is Still Popular
- One of the best entries in the EX series
- Large roster of classic and original fighters
- Deep Excel and Meteor Combo systems
- Fast and responsive gameplay
- Exclusive PlayStation content and modes
- Excellent local multiplayer battles
Tips for New Players
- Master Excel Combos to maximize damage.
- Save your full Super Combo Gauge for Meteor Combos.
- Practice character-specific combo routes.
- Learn Guard Break techniques to pressure defensive opponents.
- Experiment with different fighters to find a style that suits you.
Legacy
Street Fighter EX2 Plus is widely regarded as the high point of the Street Fighter EX series. Its polished mechanics, expanded roster, and unique blend of 3D visuals with classic 2D fighting helped it earn a lasting reputation among PlayStation and arcade fighting game fans. It also laid the groundwork for its successor, Street Fighter EX3 on the PlayStation 2.