GameSpot News recently had the opportunity to sit down with Arika, developer of Street Fighter EX3 for the PlayStation2. We talked with the company's PR spokesperson Keiko Kobayashi regarding the development of the game.

　　GSNews: We're quite excited about Street Fighter EX3 for the PlayStation2. We played it at the Capcom booth. What percentage of the game is complete at this point?

　　Arika: The game is 100 percent complete, ready for the March 4 launch.

　　GSN: How long did it take to develop the game?

　　Arika: Although we can't give you a specific time span, we'd say it wasn't too long.

　　GSN: How many people worked on the game?

　　Arika: That we can't give you the specific numbers either, but around 10-20 people.

　　GSN: Any difficulties during the development?

　　Arika: We wanted to display more than two characters onscreen, so we had a hard time balancing the graphics quality and the movements of each character. We ended up being able to play one-on-two or one-on-three in the game aside from the normal one-on-one match. These characters can also be controlled through AI instead of a human player.

　　GSN: What are some highlights of the game?

　　Arika: Up to four players can play the game simultaneously using the Multitap. It's a great game when you have a crowd in your house, and even if you're not into fighting games. I think the game can be enjoyed by novice players as well. The previous Street Fighter EX series has always been an arcade port, and this will be the first time the game is an original. Players can train and raise their own original character called Ace. You can let Ace learn new moves and have his own playing style. That character can then be used in other play modes as well.

　　GSN: Are you working on other PlayStation2 titles currently?

　　Arika: We have nothing definite yet at this point, but we're sure we will be working on future titles. Whether they will be network compatible, or using a PlayStation2-compatible arcade board, the possibilities are infinite. Of course, we will also be working on other platforms as well.

　　GSN: Lastly, any message for the American gamers?

　　Arika: Although no official plans have been made, I hear the Street Fighter EX series is also popular in the US. I hope they will enjoy the game when it is officially announced and released in the States.

　　GSN: Thank you for your time.