As Street Fighter 3: 3rd Strike turns 20, we remember why it's one of the greatest fighting games of all time

Street Fighter 3: 3rd Strike turns 20 tomorrow, 12th May, but since it is tomorrow, 12th May in Japan, where it first launched in arcades, it seems appropriate to now remember why it's considered one of - if not the - greatest fighting games of all time.

Third Strike is the third and final and unquestionably best iteration of Street Fighter 3. 3rd Strike was notable for being complex, with tricky systems and, well, a lot going on for a Street Fighter game. But once it clicked, the satisfaction that came from outwitting your opponent was incredible. It just felt good to play - responsive, silky smooth and bristling with energy.

3rd Strike added the Red Parry, which was, basically, parrying for showoffs, but it wasn't just the parry system that set the game apart. It also looked and sounded better than any previous Street Fighter. The gorgeous and vibrant 2D sprites were a joy to behold. They still are. The animation work is impeccable and the character design is up there with Capcom's best. And the stages! Well, just look at the way everything moves.

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