The Fighting Force Collection sent me straight back to the ’90s, flaws and all

February 1, 2026 - 04:27

The recent release of a classic PlayStation fighting game collection has proven to be a potent time capsule, transporting players directly back to the 1990s with all its rough edges intact. For many, the experience is less about graphical fidelity or refined gameplay and more about a powerful wave of nostalgia.

These remastered titles faithfully preserve the original pixelated visuals, the distinctive soundtracks, and the sometimes-janky mechanics that defined the era. While this authenticity is commendable, it highlights how far game design has evolved. Input lag, dated control schemes, and simplistic modes that were once standard can feel glaringly archaic by today's benchmarks.

Yet, this is precisely where the collection's magic lies. It doesn't attempt to overly modernize or sanitize the experience. Instead, it offers an unfiltered portal to a specific moment in gaming history. The emotional resonance of revisiting these digital arenas, with all their original flaws, often outweighs any technical disappointment. For long-time fans, it’s a heartfelt tribute to the foundational titles that shaped the fighting game community, serving as a reminder of where the genre began and sparking appreciation for its journey.