Darkstalkers represents one of Capcom's earliest forays into character-driven fighting games, featuring expressive character designs and animations as well as storylines and the beginnings of a larger universe. Based on the Street Fighter II engine, the game features a menagerie of gothic horror-themed characters lined up to defend Earth from invading demon Pyron. The fighting system is similar to that of Street Fighter II but adds features such as Air Blocking, Crouch Walking and Chain Combos as well as a Special meter players can charge up for powerful attacks. The game would spawn an enduring franchise including numerous arcade and console sequels, comics, animated TV series and more.