When considering the very notion of the greatest arcade fighting game off all time, thoughts quickly turn to the big hitters in this storied arcade genre. Mortal Kombat, Tekken, Virtua Fighter. They all come to mind, I mean, how could they not? But there’s one game who’s shadow loom larger over them all. You know the one. Today, I reflect on Street Fighter II how it might be the best fighting game ever created. It's a bold claim, but one that I believe has merit.

So, lets kick off this powder keg, and jump straight into the case For Street Fighter II.

First, lets just say it: Street Fighter II's gameplay mechanics are unmatched. Simple. Fight me if you think I’m wrong. The game introduced the concept of special moves, sure that might seem old hat by todays standards, but back then it was game changing. It not only added depth to the gameplay but also rewarded players for their skill and practice. The game also had a perfect balance of offence and defence, making matches tense and unpredictable, even for the most ardent button masher!

The game's characters are also some of the most iconic in gaming history. Ryu, Chun-Li, Guile, these are characters that have penetrated the very heart of the cultural zeitgeist, and we’ve all benefited as a result. The diverse cast of characters helped to broaden the game's appeal, making it accessible to players from all walks of life.

But what truly sets Street Fighter II apart is its impact on the gaming industry and culture itself. The game created a massive fan base that has followed the franchise for over three decades. Sure there had been sequels in gaming before, but the way in which Street Fighter II kept reinventing itself with new releases adding additional characters and gameplay play modes was truly ahead of its time. One need only look at the way modern games release new characters as DLC to see the influence it has had to this very day.

Speaking of which, lets take minute to talk about the most modern of gaming phenomena, namely, E-Sports! Well, its fair to say the seed was planted with Street Fighter II. Street Fighter II single handedly created the modern competitive scene, one that is still thriving today. The game's balance and depth made it a obvious choice for gamers looking to go head to head, and it was this competitive nature that lead to the rise of arcade tournaments and professional gaming, making it undoubtedly,  a pioneer in the esports industry.

In conclusion, Street Fighter II is more than just a fighting game. It's a cultural phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry and pop culture. As we’ve established, Its gameplay mechanics are unmatched, and its characters iconic. The game's legacy continues to inspire new generations of gamers, and its competitive scene is still thriving. All of these factors make it a strong contender for the title of the best fighting game ever created!

Tune in next week for our the next entry in this red hot debate when we’ll be looking at the controversy courting 90’s upstart: Mortal Kombat!