The atmosphere at Red Bull Kumite 2023 was truly electric as 16 of the best Street Fighter 6 players gathered in Pretoria, South Africa for a high-stakes, single-elimination tournament. It was the perfect stage for some of the game’s biggest names, including Leffen, Problem X, Oil King, and Mister Crimson.
But it was the local hero, JabhiM, who stole the show and proved that your choice of controller doesn’t matter when it comes to playing at the top level. JabhiM, representing the home turf, faced off against Hajime Taniguchi (aka Tokido) in the first round. At first, it seemed like an easy victory for Tokido as he effortlessly claimed the first set with his fighter of choice, Ken.
However, with the support of the home crowd, JabhiM’s Chun-Li fought back and secured a stunning victory, winning five sets to Tokido’s three. And the most surprising part? JabhiM achieved this incredible feat using a DualSense Wireless Controller, showing aspiring players around the world that fancy hardware is not a necessity to excel in Street Fighter 6.
The tournament was already filled with surprises from the start, with players like Benjamin ‘Problem X’ Simon and Adel ‘Big Bird’ Anouche showcasing the competitive potential of characters considered lower down in tier lists. Every match was a nail-biter, showcasing the intense and no-holds-barred nature of the tournament.
Despite many players opting for leverless Hit Box-style controllers or top-of-the-line fight sticks like the Qanba Obsidian, JabhiM’s use of the DualSense made waves and proved that your choice of input device is not a determining factor in your success. In fact, both JabhiM and Problem X emphasized the importance of using whatever controller or stick feels most comfortable for the individual player.
Capcom has gone to great lengths to make Street Fighter 6 accessible to players of all backgrounds and budgets. With modern controls that streamline complex inputs and the introduction of the Drive Gauge system, the game offers a balanced and exciting experience. The Drive Gauge, in particular, plays a pivotal role in determining the flow of the game, rewarding careful decision-making over precise execution.
JabhiM highlights the Drive Impact as his favorite new mechanic, using it strategically to catch opponents off guard. His performance against Tokido perfectly showcased the power and satisfaction of landing this move. Ultimately, Street Fighter 6 is a game that rewards players who can balance smart play with risk-taking, regardless of the input device they choose.
JabhiM’s success with a DualSense controller is a testament to the level playing field that Capcom has created in Street Fighter 6. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, the game offers a wealth of opportunities for growth and improvement. So, take it from the pros: your choice of controller doesn’t define your potential in Capcom’s latest installment.
