Description
In the fighting games industry, the term 'roster' is pivotal. It encompasses the entire collection of fighters that players can choose from to engage in battles. A well-crafted roster offers a diverse range of characters, each with unique abilities, fighting styles, and backstories, enhancing the game's depth and replayability. Developers often put significant effort into balancing the roster to ensure no single character dominates, maintaining fair competition. Rosters can vary greatly in size, from a handful of characters in indie titles to dozens in major franchises. Over time, rosters can expand through downloadable content (DLC), keeping the game fresh and engaging for the community.
Examples
- In 'Street Fighter V', the initial roster included 16 characters at launch, each with distinct fighting styles and special moves. This roster has since expanded to over 40 characters through various updates and DLCs.
- The 'Super Smash Bros. Ultimate' roster is one of the largest in fighting game history, featuring over 80 characters from different franchises, including Mario, Pikachu, and even non-Nintendo characters like Sonic and Mega Man.
Additional Information
- A diverse roster can attract a broader audience by offering characters that appeal to different playstyles and preferences.
- Balancing a large roster is a challenging task for developers, as each character needs to be competitive but not overpowered.