Summary
- Release Year: 1999
- Genres: Arcade, Fighting
- Platforms: Android, Arcade, Dreamcast, iOS, Neo Geo AES, Neo Geo MVS, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Xbox 360
- Developers: SNK
- Publishers: SNK
Garou: Mark of the Wolves (1999): The Definitive 2D Fighting Experience
Originally released in 1999, Garou: Mark of the Wolves is a 2D fighting game developed by SNK. It is the eighth installment in the Fatal Fury series, and is considered by many to be one of the best fighting games ever made.
Gameplay
Garou: Mark of the Wolves features a unique three-line battle system, which allows players to move their characters freely between the foreground, midground, and background. This adds an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay, as players must now consider not only their opponent’s position, but also their own position in relation to the three lines.
In addition to the three-line battle system, Garou: Mark of the Wolves also features a number of other innovative gameplay mechanics, including the Just Defend system. This system allows players to parry their opponent’s attacks by pressing the appropriate button just before the attack lands. Just Defends can be used to cancel out even the strongest attacks, and can be a very effective way to turn the tide of battle.
Characters
Garou: Mark of the Wolves features a roster of 12 characters, each with their own unique fighting style. The characters include:
- Terry Bogard: The main protagonist of the Fatal Fury series, Terry is a powerful fighter who specializes in close-range combat.
- Andy Bogard: Terry’s younger brother, Andy is a skilled martial artist who uses a variety of projectile attacks.
- Joe Higashi: A former Muay Thai champion, Joe is a powerful striker who excels at close-range combat.
- Mai Shiranui: A kunoichi from Japan, Mai is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of ninjutsu techniques.
- Kim Kaphwan: A taekwondo master from Korea, Kim is a powerful fighter who specializes in long-range combat.
- Geese Howard: The main antagonist of the Fatal Fury series, Geese is a powerful fighter who uses a variety of dark powers.
- Billy Kane: Geese’s right-hand man, Billy is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of weapons.
- Ryuji Yamazaki: A former member of the Bogard family, Ryuji is a powerful fighter who uses a variety of dirty tactics.
- Hokutomaru: A young Japanese fighter who is seeking revenge against Geese Howard.
- Hotaru Futaba: A kunoichi from Japan, Hotaru is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of ninjutsu techniques.
- Gato: A Brazilian capoeira fighter, Gato is a powerful fighter who excels at close-range combat.
- Kevin Ryan: An American wrestler, Kevin is a powerful fighter who specializes in grappling.
Modes
Garou: Mark of the Wolves features a variety of different game modes, including:
- Arcade Mode: The main single-player mode, in which players fight their way through a series of opponents to reach the final boss.
- Versus Mode: A two-player mode in which players can fight against each other.
- Training Mode: A mode in which players can practice their combos and techniques.
- Survival Mode: A mode in which players fight against an endless stream of opponents.
- Boss Challenge Mode: A mode in which players fight against all of the game’s bosses in a row.
Legacy
Garou: Mark of the Wolves is considered by many to be one of the best fighting games ever made. It was praised for its innovative gameplay mechanics, beautiful graphics, and memorable characters. The game has been ported to a number of different platforms, and is still played by a dedicated community of fans today.
Conclusion
Garou: Mark of the Wolves is a truly exceptional fighting game. It is a must-play for any fan of the genre, and is sure to provide hours of enjoyment.
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
