Summary
- Release Year: 2009
- Genres: Fighting
- Platforms: Arcade, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
- Developers: SNK Playmore
- Publishers: Ignition Entertainment, SNK Playmore
The King of Fighters XII: A Reinvention of a Classic Fighting Franchise
The King of Fighters XII, released in 2009, marked a significant turning point for the long-running fighting game franchise. As the twelfth installment in the series and a celebration of its 15th anniversary, KOF XII underwent a massive reinvention, rebuilding the game from the ground up both technically and visually.
Gameplay Reinvention
One of the most noticeable changes in KOF XII was the streamlining of its battle system. The tag system introduced in the previous game, KOF XI, was removed, returning to the traditional 3-vs-3 format that the series is known for. This simplified the gameplay, making it more accessible to newcomers while still retaining the depth and complexity that veteran players enjoyed.
Another significant gameplay change was the introduction of the “Active Guard” system. This new defensive mechanic allowed players to parry incoming attacks by pressing the guard button just before impact. Successful Active Guards not only negated the damage but also gave the player a brief window of opportunity to counterattack. This added a new layer of strategy to the game, rewarding players with quick reflexes and precise timing.
Visual Overhaul
In addition to the gameplay changes, KOF XII also received a complete visual overhaul. The game’s character sprites and backgrounds were redesigned in high resolution, giving the game a stunning new look that pushed the limits of the aging Neo Geo hardware. The character animations were also greatly improved, resulting in more fluid and realistic movements.
Character Roster
KOF XII featured a total of 22 fighters, all of whom were returning combatants from previous titles. This included fan favorites such as Kyo Kusanagi, Iori Yagami, Terry Bogard, and Mai Shiranui. Two additional characters, Elisabeth Blanctorche and Oswald, were exclusive to the home release of the game.
Game Modes
KOF XII offered a variety of game modes to cater to different types of players. The arcade mode featured a five-round “time attack” mode, where players had to defeat all of the CPU opponents within a certain time limit. The game also included online and local versus modes, as well as practice and replay modes. Additionally, there was an unlockable art gallery that showcased character artwork and concept sketches.
Reception
The King of Fighters XII received generally positive reviews from critics upon release. The game’s streamlined gameplay and stunning visuals were praised, although some reviewers criticized the lack of innovation and the removal of the tag system. Despite this, KOF XII was considered a solid entry in the series and a worthy celebration of its 15th anniversary.
Legacy
The King of Fighters XII marked a turning point for the franchise, not only in terms of its gameplay and visuals but also in terms of its development. The game was the last KOF title to be released on the Neo Geo hardware, and it signaled the series’ transition to more modern platforms. KOF XII also laid the foundation for future KOF games, with its streamlined gameplay and Active Guard system becoming staples of the franchise.
Conclusion
The King of Fighters XII is a significant installment in the KOF franchise, representing a major reinvention of the series both technically and visually. Its streamlined gameplay, stunning visuals, and solid roster of characters make it a worthwhile entry for both newcomers and veteran fans alike. While it may not be the most innovative or groundbreaking KOF game, it remains a solid and enjoyable fighting experience that celebrates the franchise’s rich history.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
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