The last Capcom fighter to land on the PSP, Darkstalkers Chronicle: The Chaos Tower, brought some much needed fighting spirit to the launch lineup, considering that there wasn't much to pick from at the time. Longtime fans of 2D fighters should start their rejoicing then, because the progenitor to all those dopey, wannabe cartoon-type brawlers just found its way to the handheld.Street Fighter Alpha 3 Max may not necessarily be the granddaddy of the franchise, but according to the reviews out for it, it certainly shows its pedigree off in a meaningful way. And despite the painful bouts of thumb blisters and hand cramps you'll likely experience with this fighter on the PSP's capable but awkward controller layout, the game's faithful translation, and its extensive roster of extras, make the suffering well worth it.
GamePro [4 out of 5] – "...Besides for the controls, Street Fighter Alpha 3 Max has a lot going for it. Strong graphics mixed with an amazing selection of fighters, along with tons of modes and a wifi connection for wireless fighting make this, for sheer lack of competition, the best fighting game on the PSP."
Gamespy [3.5 out of 5] – "If for some reason your PSP responds beautifully to your commands, then not only are you blessed with a freakish handheld that should be treasured, (or magical hands perfectly made for using the system), but you've got a special treat in store for you here with what may be the best game in your collection. Street Fighter Alpha 3 Max is a pixel-perfect rendition of the arcade game, and a pleasure to behold on the PSP."
GameSpot [8.2] – "Street Fighter Alpha 3 Max is more or less a perfect translation of what's presumably the last game in Capcom's Street Fighter II spin-off series...Pulling off certain special moves and combos using the PSP's controls can be difficult, but that's really the only reason you couldn't wholeheartedly recommend this game to PSP-carrying Street Fighter fans."
