Product Review: Street Figher Starter

Ever since HeroClix switched to figures with character cards, they have regularly put out one new starter a year. This year has been a bit different because WizKids (under their new owners NECA) have been doing some experimentation with the way they release products. So this year we've already gotten a couple of "Fast Force packs" which have been dubbed "mini-starters" by the regular players. As such, they've come with 6 figures, dice and a double-sided map.

With this product, we've gotten 6 figures, 2 smaller double-sided maps, the full rule book, and a new Powers and Abilities Card. The strange part is that it does NOT contain dice, which usually isn't a big deal, but it's a strange switch from the Fast Force packs which do contain dice, but no rules and PAC. The big problem for new players is that NONE of these products contain the object tokens and markers that have traditionally come in past starters. True a player could "print and play" these items, but that, in my opinion, is an unfortunate precedent to sent for new players, which presumably this product was created to foster.

Now, looking specifically at what does come in the starter, the new maps are great, especially for the new one on one format available in this starter. All four maps were created to simulate actual Street Fighter levels and grant a great variety of terrains to play on. Some veteran players may find the maps a bit claustrophobic, but they are excellent for those that want to play some quick games and really enjoy getting into each others faces and really slugging it out.

With the figures, they chose the six most logical fighters to highlight with the inclusion of Ryu, Ken, Chun-Li, Guile, Dhalsim, and my personal favorite Blanka. WizKids chose to make 50 point versions of each character, which considering some of the best Martial Artist in HeroClix come in at 58 point, seems like a logical choice both for the one on one format, and standard team building. That said, on first look all of the dials seem underwhelming, until one considers the figures' team ability. The Street Fighter team ability (which all the figures have) allow them to always have the ability to take a Power Action and move up to 3 squares to make a close combat attack Sure it's limited to a quick dash punch, but considering they'll usually be able to move their full 3 even out of hindering (because it's not changing their movement value, just limiting their movement) it's a pretty strong ability. Sure these figures aren't going to be the stars of the team, but they're likely to be a nuisance for the points, if you play them smart.

Ultimately, should you buy this product? Personally, I'd buy it for the updated Rules and PAC alone. However, if you're a fan of Street Fighter and/or you're looking forward to the smaller maps for quicker games, then the answer is, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR!?!?!