Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium
- July 21, 2022
- CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
- 38h median play time
A densely-packed compilation that helps fill the void left behind by the death of retro arcades.
"Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium" is a collection of 32 classic arcade games from Capcom, including popular titles such as "Final Fight," "Strider," and "Ghouls 'n Ghosts." This anthology allows players to experience these iconic games with added features such as save states, display options, and online leaderboards. Both seasoned gamers and newcomers can enjoy the nostalgia and challenge of Capcom's arcade legacy.
Reviews
- Great selection of classic Capcom arcade games that evoke nostalgia for fans of the genre.
- The emulation is strong, and many games hold up well, providing a fun experience for both new players and those revisiting old favorites.
- Options to purchase games individually or as a collection, along with various gameplay and visual customization features, enhance the overall experience.
- The addition of Enigma DRM after purchase has frustrated many players, leading to performance issues and compatibility problems, especially on the Steam Deck.
- The pricing is considered unreasonable by many, with complaints that the collection should have been offered at a lower price or as DLC for the first Stadium.
- Technical issues, including crashes and problems accessing purchased DLC, have marred the experience for several users, making the game feel unplayable at times.
- music5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- -20 % neutral mentions
- 60 % negative mentions
The music in the compilation has received mixed reviews; while some users appreciate the overall soundtrack and consider it a valuable addition, others criticize the theme song for not capturing the essence of the arcade era. Additionally, there are complaints about the redundancy of new music and content, suggesting that it could have been integrated into the original release instead of being presented as a separate experience.
“Probably the best retro arcade gaming compilation in existence; the music video makes this compilation totally worth the purchase.”
“The music really enhances the overall experience and brings back nostalgic feelings.”
“The soundtrack is a fantastic blend of retro vibes and modern twists, making it enjoyable for both old-school fans and new players.”
“The theme song is garbage.”
“It sounds nothing like the music from the arcade era.”
“In regards to the stadium itself, I feel it to be a redundancy, especially since pretty much the entirety of its content, new menu music, backgrounds, emojis, and in-game unlockables like the borders and screen options could have all very well have been added to the first one.”
- gameplay4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- -25 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The gameplay offers a diverse collection of genres with extensive options for customization and display, catering to various player preferences. Helpful how-to-play sections and instruction manuals enhance accessibility, while online leaderboards add a competitive edge. However, the overall package may not appeal to everyone.
“There is a good variety of genres represented, with helpful how-to-play sections and instruction manuals, as well as online leaderboards for every title and plenty of display and gameplay options.”
“The option to buy as a collection or individually offers plenty of gameplay and visual options, making it a diverse collection.”
“After 38 hours of gameplay, I can say that this package might not be for everyone.”
“The gameplay options are plentiful, but the overall experience feels disjointed and lacks cohesion.”
“While there is a good variety of genres represented, the execution of gameplay mechanics often feels clunky and unrefined.”
- optimization3 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The optimization of the game selection is significantly hindered by poor performance issues, largely attributed to problematic DRM that not only fails virus checks but also negatively impacts system performance. Despite having a promising lineup of games, the retroactive addition of performance-degrading DRM has led to widespread dissatisfaction among users.
“A great selection of games marred by terrible performance.”
“DRM fails multiple virus checks, impacts system performance (would explain the sudden issues I've been having of late), and acts as malware.”
“There are some cool games here, but since Capcom retroactively added performance-killing DRM to a game that has already been out for a couple of years, I can't recommend this.”
- graphics3 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The graphics in these games show minimal improvement, leading some users to feel they could have been released as DLC for Capcom Arcade Stadium rather than standalone titles. While the variety of gameplay is appreciated, the lack of enhanced visuals and customization options detracts from the overall experience.
“These games could have been released as extras for Capcom Stadium 1 since there are little to no improvements in graphics, customization, or playability.”
“Both of the stadiums provide great variety and a reminder that playability wins over fancy graphics.”
“There are no improved visuals; this should have been DLC for Capcom Arcade Stadium.”
- humor1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is highlighted by amusing glitches, such as a knocked-out player landing awkwardly above the ground, which adds a lighthearted touch to the overall experience.
“The emulation appears to be solid so far, save for an embarrassing SF glitch where the knocked-out player lands two screen inches above the ground - funny stuff!”
Critic Reviews
Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium review
Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium is a beautifully presented package which includes a decent strike rate of two thirds bangers to a third of borderline unplayable turds.
70%Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium Review – History Lesson
Fans of arcade games, and especially of Capcom's arcade lineage, will find a lot to find in Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium, which stands as a great testament to just how far video games have come as a medium.
70%Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium Review
Last year, we declared Capcom Arcade Stadium to be “one of the best retro collections ever made.”
80%