Street Fighter 6 is getting an exciting new feature that allows players to reduce input lag. In short, this means that the time between when you press a button and when the action happens in the game is shortened, which is a huge boon for any fighting game where reflexes are key.
While this obviously applies to all platforms, it’s best to use a PS5 or Xbox Series X/S with a 120hz monitor so input lag and overall gaming performance will be at its best. Capcom dropped the mic for this, setting a standard for other types of developers and establishing the current generation of consoles as the competitive standard for gaming.
But why is it so important? Especially for those unfamiliar with the genre, it’s easy to see that less latency is better, but the broader implications of this development may not be clear. First, in the hearts of fighters at the peak of competition, the platform with the best performance is the most important. If the PS5 or Xbox Series X/S had the least amount of input lag, it would force the most influential players from the previous generation to the current one, which would gradually affect the entire community.
It’s worth noting that this input lag option will also be available on PC by turning off V-Sync and adjusting the refresh rate to at least 120hz. Those with powerful rigs that can handle it will be able to perform at the same level, but for those taking the leap from previous generation consoles, the PS5 or Xbox Series X/S are the most affordable options.
It also affects tournaments, with games like Street Fighter 6 coming alive after its release month. It is in the best interest of tournament organizers to provide platforms with the least amount of input lag within their budget. They obviously can’t set up dozens of computers packing a 3080, so wider adoption of current-generation consoles is likely in the near future.
“Frankly, I think we’re going to be on PS4 for a while,” former Minneapolis tournament organizer Brian wrote via Twitter private message. “Sony’s ownership of the EVO (which in the eyes of many sets the standard for competition) makes it difficult to justify moving to something cheaper like the S-series, as console differences can be a big problem” they continued: “Even with Smaller events might also find it easier to stick with the PS4 for the time being, as most controllers either work with it or are on sale with it in mind, and there’s already a collection of games and DLC. If the PS5 wasn’t so scarce, expensive and Oddly shaped mass storage, I think a lot of TO’s who offer physical consoles would choose to switch.”
Arturo Sanchez, a well-known American fighting game player, tournament organizer, and recent champion of high-refresh-rate monitors, echoes the idea that competitive-minded players in Street Fighter 6 will collectively move to newer consoles. They followed the news to tweet their thoughts:
Capcom forced a change to the 120hz option in SF6. I’m pretty sure no one taking the game seriously will play the PS4 version. How will the event organizers respond? Will they upgrade?
– bc 480hz Reactions Sabin (@nycfurby) December 1, 2022
It’s impossible to think about moving between console generations without paying attention to the burden of doing so. Not only are they expensive, but getting your hands on a PS5 is a real struggle even now. If you’re planning to play Street Fighter 6 at your best and you’re not rocking gear that would make Digital Foundry blush, you might want to start looking for upgrades.
For more Street Fighter 6 content, check out our coverage of the Street Fighter 6 online experience, the game setting a new gold standard for players, and Capcom’s financial report showing that the game won’t be released in 2023. Published months ago.
