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VF5 also offers a version of the VF.TV option that appeared in Japanese arcades. Unfortunately, the game lacks any kind of online supoport whatsoever, so all VF.TV does is allow the player to save and view replays and watch various videos.  This is a far cry from the Japanese arcade version of the feature which actually broadcasts intense VF battles to arcades all over the country.

Apparently we won't find any ground-breaking changes in the VF control scheme or fighting system, but there is a much wider variety in the fighting environments than ever before.  The environments look amazing and offer a wide assortment - wide open spaces, tight walled arenas, and everything in between to make the player adjust strategies according to the environment.

Eye candy may be the best new feature that VF5 has going for it as the game looks absolutely gorgeous and clearly takes advantage of the PS3's advanced capabilities.  In terms of playability, the VF series has always had a fairly high learning curve and Virtua Fighter 5 seems to be no exception.  If it's like VF4 and VF4 Evo it isn't impossible to learn or master, but be prepared to get your ass handed to you a few times before you make any serious progress.

All in all, VF5 looks to be the first great fighting experience of the now robust next generation - until someone finally decides to make a new version of Karate Champ anyway.  We'll know more when the game releases on February 20.