'Street Fighter 5' news: New gameplay trailer revealed; Akuma confirmed to return

Akuma will join "Street Fighter 5" and will be playable starting Dec. 20, Capcom recently confirmed. A new season pass will also be available to preorder, allowing players to access Akuma and five other characters.

As seen in the gameplay footage, Akuma went through a small visual transformation since his previous appearance in the game's fourth installment. He still wears his dark blue Gi, but he is now sporting a longer hairstyle. Classic moves including his air fireball can be seen, but his dive kick has been tweaked. It now has an EX version that starts off with a somersault that can cause damage when connected with an enemy. Also included in his moves are Raging Demon and a version of the Misogi — a move he did back in Capcom Vs. SNK 2.

"Akuma returns to Street Fighter 5, displaying his mastery of Ansatsuken and while he has become burlier than previous games, he possesses quick footwork and devastating combos," Capcom states on its official website. It further added: "He has a wide array of destructive tools and is able to completely out-class opponents with his oppressive pressure. His moves and stances often strike poses reminiscent of Buddhist statues and Ukiyo-e paintings."

When Akuma is released, players can also get their hands on a new Holiday Content featuring B-Boy Ryu and B-Girl Chun-Li. Nostalgia costumes, Akuma's Story as well as Premium Battle will be released on Dec. 20. In addition, the 2017 Character Pass will be available when Akuma arrives. Capcom confirmed that it will grant pass holders the said character, along with five brand new fighters as they are launched throughout 2017.

According to the company, the pass will also come with "Premium Battle Costumes with colors 3-10 unlocked and default costume colors 3-10 for each character. Additionally, 2017 Character Pass holders will receive an exclusive PS4 theme."