Charlie Nash returns as ‘starring role’ in Street Fighter V

Capcom announced today the planned return of fan favorite fighter Charlie Nash in Street Fighter V, "although noticeably a little.. different."

For those unfamiliar with Street Fighter lore — particularly the Street Fighter Alpha series — Capcom has provided a nice little history lesson on Nash, the originator of the Sonic Boom.

First mentioned in Street Fighter II: The World Warrior (1991) by Guile during his quest for revenge; Nash was a lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and one of Guile’s best friends. Although it was hinted that M.Bison was involved in Charlie’s disappearance in the past, it was never really fully explained…

…until the Street Fighter Alpha series, that is. In Street Fighter Alpha II (1996) we see firsthand that a helicopter controlled by M.Bison’s forces make quick work of Nash as M.Bison gets away. Initially presumed to be dead by both friends and foes alike, Nash’s return shows that his story is far from over.

Capcom teased Nash as a "starring role" in the upcoming fighting game, but details surrounding his return will become clear "later on." For now we'll have to settle for a kickass trailer and news on Street Fighter V's beta.

Capcom also announced plans to perform "the largest and most ambitious" online beta program in franchise history with Street Fighter V on PS4 and PC. "These tests will be essential to collect your feedback and to ensure that Street Fighter V is the best iteration yet," Capcom said, revealing that players in North America who pre-order the game will be automatically enrolled into the beta program.

As a reminder, Street Fighter V is only coming to PS4 and PC.