THE BUZZ: Sega has sent over some new screenshots for the upcoming Virtua Fighter 5: Final Showdown.

The game is a re-release of Virtua Fighter 5 set to launch on XBLA and PSN later this year. with new characters such as Taka-Arashi and Jean Kudo, as well as some new mechanics. Extra stages and interactive environments will also be included.

“Virtua Fighter 5: Final Showdown is the definitive version of the Vertua Fighter 5 series, incorporating all of the enhancements the arcade team has rolled out since 2007,” says Sega. ”Final Showdown makes significant improvements to the fighting mechanics and adds new single-player and online modes while maintaining the series’ classic balance and precision.”

EGM’s TAKE: It seems odd that after all this time Sega would choose a re-release of such an old game with new characters over releasing a brand new Virtua Fighter title. Could this mean that they lack some faith in the brand? It makes sense not to risk it especially with all the major fighting titles set for release this year. Hopefully sales of Final Showdown will encourage the publisher to consider a full on sequel, but if sales are bad then expect this to be the end of the franchise.