Street Fighter Alpha 3

What is Street Fighter Alpha 3?

Street Fighter Alpha 3 is a classic 2D fighting game that serves as a prequel to the iconic Street Fighter II. Released in 1998, it expands the series' lore with younger versions of fan-favorite characters while introducing new fighters. Set in a vibrant anime-inspired art style, the game deepens the personal stories of warriors like Ryu, Ken, and Chun-Li as they hone their skills before the events of Street Fighter II. With its fast-paced combat and dramatic special moves, it's celebrated for refining the fighting formula with new mechanics while staying true to the series' competitive roots.

Game Features

• Expanded Roster: Choose from 34 playable characters, including classics like Ryu and Zangief, newcomers like Sakura and Cody, and crossover fighters from Final Fight
• Three Fighting Styles (ISMs): Customize your approach with A-ISM (traditional Super Combos), X-ISM (streamlined classic moves), or V-ISM (advanced parrying and custom combos)
• Dramatic Battles: Experience 2-vs-1 fights where teams coordinate special attacks against overpowered bosses
• World Tour Mode: Build your fighter's stats through RPG-like progression across global tournaments
• Guard Crushes & Alpha Counters: Break through defenses or counterattack mid-block with precise timing
• Custom Combos: Chain together flashy, improvised attack sequences that reward creative play

How to Play Street Fighter Alpha 3?

1. Movement: Use arrow keys or WASD to move your fighter – tap forward/backward to walk, down to crouch, and up to jump
2. Basic Attacks:
   • Light Punch: Z key
   • Medium Punch: X key
   • Heavy Punch: C key
   • Light Kick: A key
   • Medium Kick: S key
   • Heavy Kick: D key
3. Special Moves: Execute character-specific techniques like Hadoukens or Shoryukens using directional inputs combined with attack buttons (e.g., Down → Down-Forward → Forward + Punch)
4. Super Combos: Fill your Super Combo gauge by fighting aggressively, then unleash devastating finishers with complex input sequences
5. Defense: Hold Back to block high attacks or Down-Back to block low attacks; press Forward + Medium Punch during block for Alpha Counters
6. ISM Selection: Choose your fighting style at character select – each offers unique mechanics like Custom Combos (V-ISM) or powered-up specials (A-ISM)

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Alpha 3 different from other Street Fighter games?
It introduces the revolutionary ISM system, allowing players to choose distinct fighting styles that dramatically alter gameplay strategy, plus features the largest roster in the Alpha series with deep character backstories.

How do I perform Custom Combos in V-ISM?
Activate V-ISM mode when your gauge is full (usually Medium Punch + Medium Kick + Heavy Punch), then freely chain normal attacks into specials during the timed sequence for massive damage.

Can I play with a friend locally?
Yes! The game supports two-player versus mode where you can battle head-to-head using separate controllers or keyboard setups for competitive matches.