For its fourth consecutive year at Evo Vegas, the fighting game community is abuzz with excitement as Guilty Gear -Strive- takes center stage. The popular title has solidified its place in the tournament circuit since its debut in 2022, and its competitive scene is more intense than ever.
This year’s Arc World Tour is led by Strive, and Evo remains a flagship Platinum event for the series. The winner of this year’s Evo champion will secure direct qualification to the Arc World Tour finals next year. Notably, Daru I-No, who won the Evo Japan trophy last year, aims to claim the title again and solidify his reputation as one of the most dedicated character specialists in fighting game history.
RedDitto, the defending Arc World Tour champion, is also looking to make a comeback after a close defeat by Daru at Evo Japan. The reigning champion has been a dominant force in Ramlethal’s meta for years and will stop at nothing to claim his second Evo title.
Other notable competitors returning to Strive’s bracket this year include Leffen, the 2023 Evo champion from North America, who is seeking revenge after an impressive showing at CEO last June. Kshuewhatthemoo, a rising star in North American fighting games, aims to build on his recent success with a strong result at Evo.
International competition will be fierce as well, with Saudi Arabian specialist Slash and Senegalese champion Verix returning to the fray alongside their trusty Nagoriyuki and Johnny. Despite their impressive resumes, none can match the intimidation factor of Happy Chaos’s Jack, who has been on the cusp of a win domestically.
As Strive approaches its fourth season, it’s essential to acknowledge the game’s lasting impact on the fighting game community. With the final character of Season 4, Cyberpunk Edgerunners’s Lucy, set to appear at Evo, fans can expect another high-energy year filled with thrilling matches and memorable moments.
Source: https://evo.gg/news/evo-2025-viewer-s-guide-guilty-gear-strive