Power Stone | February 25, 1999
Power Stone is an arcade fighting game developed and published by Capcom in 1999. It was released on the Sega NAOMI arcade board and later ported to the Dreamcast home console. The game features battles in a 3D environment where players can use objects they find to fight. Its sequel, Power Stone 2, was released the following year, and adaptations in manga and animation were also created. Both games were ported in 2006 to the PlayStation Portable as Power Stone Collection, known as Power Stone Portable in Japan. Additionally, both games are set to be re-released in 2025 as part of the Capcom Fighting Collection 2 for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Windows.
Gameplay involves selecting a character and engaging in one-on-one battles with other characters in various locations. The 3D fighting features special attacks, and players can pick up objects such as tables, chairs, rocks, and bombs to use in combat. During fights, colored gem-like "Power Stones" appear in the arena. When a character collects three Power Stones, they transform into a stronger version of themselves. In this state, characters can perform one of two super special attacks, typically involving large-range or close-range attacks. The enhanced mode lasts until the Power Bar is completely depleted, during which players can use special attacks that drain the entire Power Bar or other less powerful attacks that consume a small amount of power. Each match continues until one character's life bar is completely drained.
Set in the 19th century, the game features individuals who strongly believe in legends, myths, and superstitions, all pursuing fame, wealth, and glory. Among them is a particularly sought-after legend about a treasure that can fulfill any dream. Believers from around the world set off to find this treasure, fighting each other in the process while pursuing the legendary Power Stone.
The Dreamcast version of Power Stone received "positive reviews" according to GameRankings. However, the Power Stone Collection received "average" ratings on Metacritic. Blake Fischer from NextGen noted that "every Dreamcast owner must have this title. It's unique, fast, and above all, really fun." Famitsu in Japan gave the Dreamcast version 34 out of 40, while the PSP version received 29 out of 40.
In Japan, arcade machines ranked the game as the 18th successful arcade game in May 1999. The game sold 200,000 units.
In the UK, Computer and Video Games gave the Dreamcast version a perfect score of 5, calling it "fantastic." Edge rated the Japanese import version on the same console 9 out of 10, calling it "the crown jewel of the Dreamcast." Larry "Major Mike" Hryb from GamePro praised the game, stating, "Power Stone is a fantastic game. It’s an exciting twist on fighting games for fans and non-fans alike. While it may lack the technical depth of Soul Calibur or Marvel vs. Capcom, the fun and thrilling gameplay is hard to beat." Other reviews noted, "[For those looking for something new in fighting games], look no further. Power Stone may not be intense kung fu action, but it’s a lot of fun. Bring a friend and enjoy Power Stone." A Severed Head mentioned the PSP version, stating, "While these games from Power Stone Collection are a generation old, experiencing these two relatively underrated titles won't make you feel like you’re playing an outdated game. Not trying this game means missing out on one of Capcom's best fighting series since Street Fighter." Retro Gamer’s Darren Jones rated the same PSP version 90 points, stating, "The original Power Stone games were overlooked at launch, but now you have a chance to experience these two nearly perfect transformations. The first (and best) game plays especially well on the PSP's beautiful screen, and both games run at great speeds via Wi-Fi connectivity. Buy this excellent collection and save yourself before it's too late." GameZone rated the PSP version 7.5 out of 10, saying it offers "fast, intense, and very fun gameplay. Power Stone 2 is less interesting. The sequel is worth playing, but not worth buying as a 'collection.' If you love the original, buy it for that."
AllGame's Colin Williamson rated the Japanese Dreamcast import version 4.5 out of 5, saying it’s "fast and fluid, and really fun to play, especially in versus mode." Scott Allen Marriott later rated the US version 4 out of 5, noting, "The only real issue with Power Stone is that besides running around the room and dodging attacks, the character count is low. There are only 10 characters available after unlocking the boss, which is too few compared to other fighting games. Also, if they had doubled the size of the play field and offered 4-player simultaneous play, it could have provided a truly intense fighting experience. Aside from these small issues, Power Stone shines brightly in a genre filled with mediocre titles."
