Street Fighter 6 weaves its narrative through a unique blend of a central World Tour mode starring a customizable avatar, individual character Arcade stories, and character interactions throughout the game. While the World Tour focuses on a new protagonist and their journey, it also heavily involves and develops the stories of the established cast.

Here’s a breakdown of what each playable character is up to in Street Fighter 6:

The Core Roster & Their Current Paths:

 * Ryu:

The wandering martial artist continues his relentless pursuit of true strength. Having overcome the Satsui no Hado, he now seeks a higher plane of understanding in his fighting style. He often serves as a mentor figure in World Tour, guiding the player on their path.

 * Chun-Li:

Having seemingly retired from Interpol, Chun-Li has embraced a role as a sifu, running a martial arts school in Metro City. She’s a central figure in the World Tour, teaching the player and helping them navigate the city’s challenges, all while keeping an eye on the emerging threats.

 * Luke:

A former MMA fighter and a central figure in the World Tour, Luke runs a private military contractor (PMC) and acts as the player’s initial mentor. He’s trying to find a new purpose beyond just fighting and trains the player to become stronger, inadvertently getting them involved in the larger conflict.

 * Ken Masters:

Framed for a terrorist attack by JP, Ken has been forced into hiding, losing his wealth, business (the Masters Foundation), and his public standing. He’s now working incognito as a construction worker, trying to clear his name and reunite with his family. His old friends, like Ryu and Guile, are trying to help him from afar, despite his reluctance.

 * Guile:

The stoic U.S. Air Force pilot remains dedicated to justice and protecting his family. He’s still investigating the remnants of Shadaloo and the rising threats in the world, often finding himself intertwined with Ken’s predicament.

 * Blanka:

Blanka continues to embrace his unique lifestyle in the Amazon, now monetizing his “Blanka-chan” merchandise. He’s largely removed from the central conflict but is always ready to lend his strength to his friends when needed.

 * Dhalsim:

The peaceful yogi master continues to impart wisdom and spiritual guidance. He’s a beacon of tranquility, offering the player character insights into inner strength and the balance of fighting.

 * E. Honda:

The sumo wrestler has opened his own Chanko restaurant, bringing his passion for food and sumo to the world. He remains a jovial and welcoming figure, always ready to share his culture and fighting spirit.

 * Zangief:

The “Red Cyclone” continues his pursuit of ultimate strength through wrestling, believing in the power of the human body. He’s always eager to train and prove himself, often inspiring those around him with his sheer will.

 * Cammy:

The former Shadaloo Doll now works with British intelligence, striving to atone for her past and protect others. She’s focused on dismantling criminal organizations and finding a place for herself in a peaceful life.

 * Juri:

The sadistic thrill-seeker continues to revel in chaos and fighting. With M. Bison gone, she’s somewhat directionless, but her love for inflicting pain remains, making her a dangerous wildcard in any conflict.

 * Jamie:

A young, charismatic martial artist from Hong Kong who mixes drunken boxing with breakdancing. He looks up to the legendary Yun and Yang and strives to bring peace and good vibes to his community, often through his unique fighting style.

 * Kimberly:

A talented and energetic ninja prodigy from the Bushinryu lineage, she incorporates graffiti art and music into her fighting. She’s seeking to carry on the legacy of her master, Guy, and is investigating the disappearance of a family member, which has ties to JP’s activities.

 * Manon:

A French supermodel and a judoka, Manon seeks to become the strongest and most beautiful in the world, striving for perfection in both her career and her martial arts. She’s a new face in the fighting world, eager to make her mark.

 * Marisa:

A powerfully built Roman warrior and artist, Marisa embodies strength and a love for the arts. She seeks to push the boundaries of her physicality and express herself through both combat and her creative endeavors.

 * JP:

The enigmatic and powerful new antagonist of Street Fighter 6. He is a sophisticated, manipulative individual who wields Psycho Power, much like M. Bison, and is behind many of the game’s central conflicts, including Ken’s framing and the unfolding events in Nayshall. He aims to establish a new world order under his control.

 * Lily:

A member of the Thunderfoot tribe from Mexico, connected to T. Hawk. She’s a spirited young warrior who communicates with spirits and uses her unique connection to nature in her fighting style, often seen wielding her signature clubs.

Year 1 DLC Characters:

 * Rashid:

The “Turbulent Wind” returns, continuing his quest for the latest technology and fighting techniques. He’s always seeking new adventures and ways to push his abilities, often with a cheerful and optimistic demeanor.

 * A.K.I.:

A mysterious and dangerous new character, A.K.I. is an apprentice of F.A.N.G. and specializes in poison techniques. Her motivations are shrouded in secrecy, but she embodies a sinister elegance and a desire to spread her toxins.

 * Ed:

The former Shadaloo test subject, now free from Bison’s influence, is trying to build a new life and understand his own unique Psycho Power abilities. He’s often accompanied by Balrog, who acts as a sort of protector and manager, albeit with his own agenda.

 * Akuma:

The master of the Satsui no Hado continues his relentless pursuit of martial arts perfection, seeking to challenge the strongest fighters and push the limits of his own demonic power. His path often crosses with Ryu’s, as he represents the darker side of their shared fighting style.

Year 2 DLC Characters (as of current information):

 * M. Bison:

The notorious leader of Shadaloo, believed to be defeated in previous installments, seemingly makes a return. His resurrection or the nature of his presence in SF6 is a major plot point, bringing back the threat of Psycho Power.

 * Terry Bogard:

The legendary “Lone Wolf” from Fatal Fury and King of Fighters makes his way to Street Fighter. Terry is a seasoned street fighter who champions justice and helps those in need, always looking for a good fight and an honest challenge.

 * Mai Shiranui:

The iconic Kunoichi and a member of the Shiranui ninja clan, Mai brings her flamboyant fighting style and fiery personality to the roster. She’s typically searching for Andy Bogard and proving her skills against formidable opponents.

 * Elena:

The graceful and free-spirited Capoeira practitioner from Kenya. Elena embraces life and connects with others through dance and fighting. She often seeks to bring harmony and understanding through her unique approach to martial arts.

Future DLC Characters (Announced):

 * Sagat: The “King of Muay Thai” and Ryu’s former rival. Sagat, having sought a more honorable path after his defeat by Ryu, continues to hone his skills and seek out worthy opponents, driven by a newfound respect and a desire for inner peace.

 * C. Viper: The cunning and resourceful S.I.N. agent returns. Her motivations are often shrouded in mystery, as she navigates the dangerous world of corporate espionage and black operations, often with her own daughter’s well-being in mind.

 * Alex: The powerful brawler from New York. Alex is a determined fighter who seeks to prove his strength and find his own place in the fighting world, often driven by a sense of responsibility and a desire to protect his friends and family.

 * Ingrid: A mysterious character whose past is linked to the destructive power of the “Psycho Drive.” Her story often revolves around the remnants of Shadaloo and the potential for a catastrophic future if her power is misused.

Each character’s story, whether deeply intertwined with the main World Tour narrative or explored through their individual Arcade Mode paths, offers a glimpse into their current struggles, aspirations, and connections within the rich Street Fighter universe.