'Street Fighter 5' DLC release date news: Akuma, holiday content to arrive on Dec. 20

Capcom has officially announced the highly-anticipated arrival of Akuma to "Street Fighter V." The powerful warrior will be the first season 2 downloadable content (DLC) character for the fighting video game.

Akuma has been an important character in the "Street Fighter" series since his debut in "Super Street Fighter II Turbo" back in 1994. He is obsessed with Satsui no Hado and serves as a cautionary tale for Ryu if he is unable to master control over the said energy force.

According to Capcom, Akuma comes to "Street Fighter V" with several improvements. He has a huskier build compared to previous games and he also arrives with mastery of Ansatsuken. He is equipped with devastating combos and destructive tools. His quick footwork and oppressive pressure will also make him difficult to beat.

Akuma's V-Skill is called the Rakan. This defensive move is said to be similar to Ryu's Mind Eye. The Rakan can be followed by either an upward kick or a long-reaching palm strike. Meanwhile, his V-Trigger is known as Dohatsu Shoten. When this mode is activated, Akuma is enveloped by ki. His Gohadokens are more powerful and can be unleased while he is jumping backwards.

There are also two Critical Arts for Akuma. Sekia Koretsuha is when Akuma channels a massive amount of ki onto his palm and drives it into the ground. The opponent will be hit with an explosive surge of power. On the other hand, Shun Goku Satsu is accessible only during Dohatsu Shoten mode. It is Akuma's most powerful attack as he glides across the arena to grab his opponent to dole out devastating strikes in mere seconds.

Akuma will become playable on Dec 20. The upcoming update will also include holiday-themed content as well as B-Boy Ryu, B-Girl Chun-Li, Akuma's Story, Premium Battle, and Nostalgia costumes.

Capcom also introduced the 2017 Character Pass which will be released on the same day. For $29.99, players will gain access to Akuma and five other fighters coming next year. Aside from different costumes and color options, the pass also comes with an exclusive PlayStation 4 theme.

"Street Fighter V" is available for the PlayStation 4 and Microsoft Windows PC.