The gameplay is consistent with the Street Fighter II sub-series, with several changes from the original World Warrior edition.

In addition to the eight main characters, the four Shadaloo Bosses (Balrog (Boxer), Vega (Claw), Sagat, and M. Bison (Dictator)), are now playable characters. The Shadaloo Bosses were toned down considerably from the previous iterations, but remain relatively strong compared to the standard eight fighters. The returning eight main characters' techniques and priorities were further balanced for competition between different characters. Ryu's and Ken's common fighting techniques were further differentiated.

In World Warrior, both players are not allowed to choose the same character. This restriction has been eliminated in Champion Edition, allowing for "mirror matches".

Minor graphical changes include color improvements, particularly for background stages. The portraits for all the characters and endings of some of the returning characters were redrawn. There is new music for the end credits sequence.