"Evolution has never been so simple"

Many thought that Virtua Fighter 4 was already perfect. Turns out it can get better. This game is perfect in every way. So lets start out.

Gameplay - 10/10
With the addition of Brad Burns and Goh Hinogami, two new fighting styles (Judo and Kickboxing) are added to the Virtua Fighter group. And all of the returning characters have been modified. The formidable Jacky was toned down after many complained about his speed combined with his power. Arcade mode is brilliant, as usual, but dont look for ending sequences. Versus is still great, but you can't change that too much. Now on to quest. Many remember the Kumite mode from the original VF4. Now, it has been changed. You win tournaments and matches to get items, emblems, and additional wallpaper. This mode will keep you playing this game alone for ages. Not to mention that you have 15 characters to complete it with. Training mode has improved. IT gives you a nice rundown of combos, strategies, and tips for all players: from the person who is playing his/her first Virtua Fighter to the seasoned veteran. The only real thing missing is the A.I. mode, but with what you gain, it isn't too much of a loss.

Sound - 10/10
Well, you really can't get too complex with sounds in a fighting game. But they sure have tried. Different sounds for jabs, hooks, uppercuts, throws and kicks are nice touches. Different sounds depending on whether a character lands on his back or his side are also very good. The background music can get repetitive at times, but it rarely does. Although many complained about Lion's voice, its fits him well. The sound effects in the menus have changed very little.

Video - 10/10
This is the bread and butter of the game. Nearly all of the jaggies from the original VF4 have been fixed. Blemishes aren't noticeable unless you look for them hard. Everythin glooks perfect. The colors are vibrant, not to mention the way that the rain falls on Lau's stage. Words can't describe exactly how good this game looks.

Replay Value - 10/10
The best part of this game is that it doesn't rely on the arcade mode as most fighters do. The quest mode has you searching for items, winning tournaments, and other things. Then you finish that one character by getting all of his/her items and emblems and colors. Then you realize, that there are 14 other characters left to master. This game will have you in its grasp for a VERY long time.

Overall - 10/10
You can't really get tired of this game. There's always something left to do. Experimentation with combos and moves will be the bread and butter for the vets, while the beginner can be proud in winning items in Quest. Everyone is happy. Although it lost the A.I. mode, we gained a lot more things to cherish. Perfection is hard to achieve. The people at Sega know this; they have tweaked this game many times. But now, perfection has evolved. Virtua Fighter 4:Evolution is a must buy.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 08/13/03