Capcom needs PC gamers’ help to test online Street Fighter V fixes

Enlarge / Wanna try out SFV's latest fighter, Kolin, for free? Capcom's week-long online-update beta, starting next week, will let you do just that.

Ars' review of Street Fighter V in February of last year began with this simple declaration: "Definitely good, definitely unfinished." Now 13 months later, Capcom is finally tiptoeing toward the fighting game's complete state as one of the game's most crucial elements will get a major unveil next weekend: a full netcode rehaul.

"We understand that Street Fighter V’s server performance has been a less than optimal experience for many of our players," a Capcom staffer frankly admitted at the company's official blog on Thursday. That comment was followed by an announcement of the "Capcom Fighters Network" (basically, the game's underlying matchmaking and connectivity system) receiving a full overhaul—and a week-long freebie to put money where Capcom's mouth is.

To prove the upgrades out, Capcom will unlock the game's online modes for everyone in the world as a separate, free download via Steam starting Tuesday, March 28. If you already own the game, the beta will carry over your current online stats; if you don't, you'll start fresh. Either way, it's free for all Windows Steam gamers until the beta closes on Monday, April 3, and all current characters from both SFV seasons will be unlocked for free as well. The beta will simultaneously test the latest balance tweaks set to reach the official game.