Publisher: SNK

Art of Fighting 3: The Path of The Warrior (1996)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Art of Fighting 3: The Path of The Warrior (1996)

Introduction

Art of Fighting 3: The Path of The Warrior is a fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade and home console. It was released in 1996 and is the third and final entry in the Art of Fighting series. The game features a roster of ten playable characters, each with their own unique fighting style. The game also introduces a new fighting system based on joystick and button combinations.

Gameplay

Art of Fighting 3’s gameplay is similar to that of its predecessors. Players control one of ten characters and fight against each other in one-on-one matches. The game’s controls are simple and easy to learn, but difficult to master. Players can perform a variety of moves, including punches, kicks, throws, and special moves.

The game also introduces a new “Guard Break” system. This system allows players to break their opponent’s guard by pressing the “Guard Break” button. This can be used to set up combos and other attacks.

Characters

Art of Fighting 3 features a roster of ten playable characters. These characters include:

  • Robert Garcia
  • Ryo Sakazaki
  • Takuma Sakazaki
  • Yuri Sakazaki
  • King
  • Mr. Karate
  • Jack Turner
  • Kasumi Todoh
  • Ryuhaku Todoh
  • Karman Cole

Each character has their own unique fighting style and special moves. This gives players a variety of options to choose from when selecting a character to play.

Story

The story of Art of Fighting 3 takes place after the events of the previous game. Robert Garcia, the protagonist of the game, receives a letter from his childhood friend, Freia Lawrence. In the letter, Freia asks Robert for help. Robert leaves without the consent of The Garcia Foundation, which sends an agent named Karman Cole to get him back.

Robert travels to Mexico to find Freia. However, he is not the only one looking for her. A mysterious organization is also searching for Freia. Robert must fight his way through hordes of enemies in order to find Freia and uncover the truth behind her disappearance.

Graphics and Sound

Art of Fighting 3’s graphics are some of the best on the Neo Geo. The characters are incredibly detailed and the backgrounds are lush and vibrant. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with a mix of rock and techno music.

Reception

Art of Fighting 3 was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its graphics, gameplay, and story. It was also a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Art of Fighting 3 is considered to be one of the best fighting games of all time. It is still played by fans today and has been ported to several different platforms. The game’s legacy is cemented in the fighting game community and it continues to inspire new generations of gamers.

Conclusion

Art of Fighting 3: The Path of The Warrior is a classic fighting game that is still enjoyed by fans today. The game’s graphics, gameplay, and story are all top-notch. If you are a fan of fighting games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Art of Fighting 3.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Art of Fighting 3: The Path of The Warrior (1996)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Art of Fighting 3: The Path of The Warrior (1996)

Introduction

Art of Fighting 3: The Path of The Warrior is a fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade and home console. It was released in 1996 and is the third and final entry in the Art of Fighting series. The game features a roster of ten playable characters, each with their own unique fighting style. The game also introduces a new fighting system based on joystick and button combinations.

Gameplay

Art of Fighting 3’s gameplay is similar to that of its predecessors. Players control one of ten characters and fight against each other in one-on-one matches. The game’s controls are simple and easy to learn, but difficult to master. Players can perform a variety of moves, including punches, kicks, throws, and special moves.

The game also introduces a new “Guard Break” system. This system allows players to break their opponent’s guard by pressing the “Guard Break” button. This can be used to set up combos and other attacks.

Characters

Art of Fighting 3 features a roster of ten playable characters. These characters include:

  • Robert Garcia
  • Ryo Sakazaki
  • Takuma Sakazaki
  • Yuri Sakazaki
  • King
  • Mr. Karate
  • Jack Turner
  • Kasumi Todoh
  • Ryuhaku Todoh
  • Karman Cole

Each character has their own unique fighting style and special moves. This gives players a variety of options to choose from when selecting a character to play.

Story

The story of Art of Fighting 3 takes place after the events of the previous game. Robert Garcia, the protagonist of the game, receives a letter from his childhood friend, Freia Lawrence. In the letter, Freia asks Robert for help. Robert leaves without the consent of The Garcia Foundation, which sends an agent named Karman Cole to get him back.

Robert travels to Mexico to find Freia. However, he is not the only one looking for her. A mysterious organization is also searching for Freia. Robert must fight his way through hordes of enemies in order to find Freia and uncover the truth behind her disappearance.

Graphics and Sound

Art of Fighting 3’s graphics are some of the best on the Neo Geo. The characters are incredibly detailed and the backgrounds are lush and vibrant. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with a mix of rock and techno music.

Reception

Art of Fighting 3 was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its graphics, gameplay, and story. It was also a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Art of Fighting 3 is considered to be one of the best fighting games of all time. It is still played by fans today and has been ported to several different platforms. The game’s legacy is cemented in the fighting game community and it continues to inspire new generations of gamers.

Conclusion

Art of Fighting 3: The Path of The Warrior is a classic fighting game that is still enjoyed by fans today. The game’s graphics, gameplay, and story are all top-notch. If you are a fan of fighting games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Art of Fighting 3.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

The King of Fighters ’96 (1996)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

The King of Fighters ’96: A Timeless Fighting Game Masterpiece

Released in 1996, The King of Fighters ’96 (KOF ’96) is a legendary fighting game that continues to captivate players with its exhilarating gameplay, iconic characters, and stunning visuals. As the third installment in the acclaimed King of Fighters series, KOF ’96 set new standards for the genre and cemented its place as one of the greatest fighting games of all time.

Gameplay Mechanics

KOF ’96 introduced several innovative gameplay mechanics that revolutionized the fighting game landscape. The most notable addition was the Advanced Guard System, which allowed players to push opponents away or counter their attacks by pressing the guard button at the precise moment of impact. This system added a new layer of depth and strategy to the game, rewarding players with quick reflexes and precise timing.

Another key gameplay mechanic was the ability to create custom teams of three fighters. Players could choose from a roster of 38 characters, each with their unique fighting styles and special moves. This allowed for a wide variety of team combinations and strategies, catering to different playstyles and preferences.

Characters and Story

KOF ’96 boasts one of the most iconic and diverse rosters in fighting game history. The game features a mix of returning characters from previous King of Fighters installments, as well as several newcomers. Some of the most popular characters include Kyo Kusanagi, Iori Yagami, Terry Bogard, and Mai Shiranui.

The story of KOF ’96 revolves around the return of Rugal Bernstein, the main antagonist from the previous game. Rugal seeks to obtain the power of Orochi, an ancient evil entity, and use it to conquer the world. The player-controlled teams must band together to defeat Rugal and prevent his sinister plans.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, KOF ’96 showcased stunning visuals that pushed the limits of the Neo Geo arcade hardware. The character sprites were incredibly detailed and animated, with fluid movements and vibrant colors. The backgrounds were equally impressive, featuring intricate designs and dynamic effects.

The game’s soundtrack is another highlight, featuring a mix of energetic rock and techno tracks that perfectly complement the fast-paced gameplay. The sound effects are also top-notch, adding to the overall immersive experience.

Legacy and Impact

Since its release, KOF ’96 has had a profound impact on the fighting game genre. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, iconic characters, and stunning visuals have set the benchmark for subsequent fighting games. The game has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, ensuring its accessibility to a wider audience.

KOF ’96 is also known for its competitive scene, with players from around the world competing in tournaments to showcase their skills and strategies. The game has spawned several sequels and spin-offs, each building upon the solid foundation established by KOF ’96.

Conclusion

The King of Fighters ’96 is a timeless fighting game masterpiece that continues to entertain and challenge players to this day. With its innovative gameplay, iconic characters, stunning visuals, and enduring legacy, KOF ’96 remains one of the most beloved and influential fighting games of all time. Whether you’re a seasoned fighting game veteran or a newcomer to the genre, KOF ’96 is an essential experience that will provide countless hours of enjoyment and excitement.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Garou: Mark of the Wolves (1999)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

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

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Crystalis (1990)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Crystalis: A Timeless SNES Classic

Released in 1990 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Crystalis is an action role-playing game (RPG) that has garnered a cult following over the years. Developed by SNK and published by Nintendo, Crystalis is known for its engaging story, memorable characters, and challenging gameplay.

Story

Crystalis is set in a post-apocalyptic world where magic has returned to Earth after a cataclysmic event. A group of benevolent sorcerers have used their newfound powers to rebuild the planet, but an evil sorcerer named Dragonia has emerged, seeking to conquer the world with his technologically advanced army.

The player takes on the role of a young man named Joel, who is chosen by a magical sword to save the world from Dragonia. Joel must travel across the world, seeking out four other mystical swords that can be combined to form the ultimate weapon: the Sword of Crystalis. Only with this legendary blade can Joel defeat Dragonia and restore peace to the world.

Gameplay

Crystalis is an action RPG that features real-time combat. The player controls Joel as he explores the world, fighting enemies, solving puzzles, and completing quests. Joel can use a variety of weapons and spells to defeat his enemies, and he can also level up his character to improve his stats.

One of the unique features of Crystalis is its “spell fusion” system. Joel can learn new spells by combining different elemental spells. For example, combining the fire spell with the ice spell creates the “blizzard” spell, which deals damage to all enemies on the screen.

Characters

Joel is a well-developed and relatable protagonist. He is a kind and compassionate young man who is determined to save the world from Dragonia. Joel is joined on his quest by a group of loyal companions, including:

  • Sara: A skilled archer and Joel’s childhood friend.
  • Aries: A powerful sorcerer who is a master of the wind element.
  • Gordo: A strong and loyal warrior who wields a mighty axe.

Legacy

Crystalis was a critical and commercial success when it was released in 1990. It was praised for its engaging story, memorable characters, and challenging gameplay. Crystalis has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, and it remains a popular game among retro gaming enthusiasts.

In 2020, Crystalis was included in the SNES Classic Edition, a mini console that features 21 classic SNES games. This release introduced Crystalis to a new generation of gamers, and it helped to solidify its status as a timeless classic.

Conclusion

Crystalis is a must-play for fans of action RPGs and retro gaming. It is a well-crafted game with a compelling story, memorable characters, and challenging gameplay. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the game, Crystalis is sure to provide you with hours of enjoyment.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Fatal Fury 3: Road to the Final Victory (1995)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Fatal Fury 3: Road to the Final Victory: The Pinnacle of 2D Fighting

Released in 1995, Fatal Fury 3: Road to the Final Victory is the third installment in the Fatal Fury fighting game series by SNK. It is widely considered to be one of the greatest fighting games of all time, and is praised for its fast-paced gameplay, gorgeous graphics, and innovative new features.

Gameplay

Fatal Fury 3 is a 2D scrolling one-on-one fighter with pseudo-3D aspects. This allows players to move their characters into the foreground and background, which adds an extra layer of depth to the gameplay. Players can also escape holds, throws, and other attacks by pressing the correct button at the right time.

The game features a roster of 13 playable characters, each with their own unique fighting styles and special moves. New characters include Bob Wilson, Franco Bash, and Sokaku Mochizuki. Terry Bogard, Andy Bogard, and Joe Higashi return from previous games, along with Geese Howard, Billy Kane, and Wolfgang Krauser.

Graphics

Fatal Fury 3 is one of the most visually impressive fighting games of its era. The sprites are large and detailed, and the backgrounds are lush and vibrant. The game also features some of the best animation in the genre, with fluid and realistic movements.

Sound

The soundtrack to Fatal Fury 3 is equally impressive, with catchy tunes and memorable sound effects. The voice acting is also top-notch, with each character having their own unique voice.

New Features

Fatal Fury 3 introduced several new features to the series, including the ability to create custom characters, a new “Line Battle” mode, and a “Dramatic Battle” mode.

  • Custom Characters: Players can create their own custom characters, choosing from a variety of different body types, hairstyles, and outfits. Custom characters can also be used in the single-player and multiplayer modes.
  • Line Battle: Line Battle is a new mode that allows players to fight against multiple opponents in a row. Players must defeat each opponent in order to progress to the next stage.
  • Dramatic Battle: Dramatic Battle is a new mode that features pre-determined cutscenes and dialogue between the characters. This mode adds a new level of storytelling to the game.

Legacy

Fatal Fury 3: Road to the Final Victory is considered to be one of the greatest fighting games of all time. It was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, gorgeous graphics, and innovative new features. The game is still popular today, and is often played in tournaments and online.

Conclusion

Fatal Fury 3: Road to the Final Victory is a masterpiece of the fighting game genre. It is a must-play for any fan of fighting games, and is still one of the most enjoyable and challenging games to play today.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Cool Cool Toon (2000)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Cool Cool Toon: A Dreamcast-Exclusive Rhythm Gem

Released exclusively for the Sega Dreamcast in 2000, Cool Cool Toon is a rhythm game that stands out from the crowd with its unique gameplay and catchy tunes. Developed and published by SNK, the game was only released in Japan, but it has since gained a cult following among rhythm game enthusiasts worldwide.

Gameplay

Cool Cool Toon’s gameplay is simple yet addictive. The player controls a marker that moves around a large circle on the screen. Letters (A, B, X, and Y) appear at the edge or in the middle of the circle, and the player must move the marker to the letter and press the corresponding button on the controller at the right time. The timing is indicated by a moving bar that scrolls around the circle.

If the player hits the button too early or too late, they will miss the note. Missing too many notes in a row will result in the player failing the song. The game features a variety of different songs, ranging from upbeat pop tunes to more traditional Japanese folk songs. Each song has its own unique rhythm and pattern, so players must be quick on their feet to keep up.

Graphics and Sound

Cool Cool Toon’s graphics are simple but effective. The game’s characters are all rendered in a colorful and cartoony style, and the backgrounds are bright and vibrant. The game’s soundtrack is also top-notch, with a variety of catchy tunes that will get your head bopping.

Reception

Cool Cool Toon received positive reviews from critics upon its release. IGN praised the game’s “addictive gameplay” and “catchy tunes,” while GameSpot called it “a must-play for any Dreamcast owner.” The game was also a commercial success in Japan, selling over 100,000 copies.

Legacy

Cool Cool Toon remains a popular rhythm game among fans of the genre. It is known for its unique gameplay, catchy tunes, and colorful graphics. The game has been featured in several rhythm game tournaments, and it continues to be enjoyed by players around the world.

Cool Cool Toon Tips

Here are a few tips to help you improve your Cool Cool Toon skills:

  • Use the analog stick. The analog stick gives you more precise control over the marker than the D-pad.
  • Keep your eyes on the moving bar. The moving bar indicates the timing of each note.
  • Don’t be afraid to miss a few notes. Missing a few notes won’t hurt your score too much. Just focus on getting back on track as quickly as possible.
  • Practice makes perfect. The more you play Cool Cool Toon, the better you will become at it.

Conclusion

Cool Cool Toon is a fun and challenging rhythm game that is sure to get your heart pumping. With its catchy tunes, addictive gameplay, and colorful graphics, it’s a must-play for any Dreamcast owner. So what are you waiting for? Grab a copy of Cool Cool Toon today and start rocking out!

Review Score

7/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Athena (1986)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Athena (1986): A Pioneering Platform Adventure with a Female Protagonist

Released in arcades in 1986 by SNK, Athena was a groundbreaking platformer that defied conventions and introduced a strong female protagonist to the gaming world. The game’s innovative gameplay, vibrant graphics, and memorable soundtrack captivated players, solidifying its place as a classic in the genre.

Gameplay and Innovation:

Athena is a side-scrolling platformer where players control the titular heroine, a skilled warrior on a quest to rescue her sister from the clutches of the evil Zeus. The game features a variety of challenging levels, each filled with enemies, obstacles, and puzzles.

One of Athena’s most notable gameplay innovations was its focus on exploration and puzzle-solving. Players had to navigate through intricate levels, using their agility and problem-solving skills to progress. The game also introduced a unique “warp” mechanic, allowing Athena to instantly teleport between different sections of the level.

Female Empowerment and Representation:

In an era dominated by male protagonists, Athena stood out as a beacon of female empowerment. The game’s protagonist was a strong, capable warrior who used her skills and determination to overcome challenges and defeat her enemies. Athena’s portrayal as a skilled and independent female character was groundbreaking at the time and helped pave the way for more diverse representation in gaming.

Visuals and Soundtrack:

Athena’s vibrant pixel art graphics were a feast for the eyes. The game’s colorful environments, detailed character designs, and fluid animations brought the world of Athena to life. The game’s soundtrack was equally impressive, featuring catchy tunes and sound effects that enhanced the overall experience.

Ports and Legacy:

After its initial arcade release, Athena was ported to a number of home consoles, including the NES, ZX Spectrum, and Commodore 64. Each port offered its own unique take on the gameplay, with some featuring exclusive levels and content.

Athena’s legacy extends beyond its initial release. The game’s innovative gameplay and strong female protagonist have influenced countless subsequent platformers and action games. Athena’s impact can still be felt today, inspiring developers to create games with diverse and empowering characters.

Critical Reception:

Upon its release, Athena received widespread critical acclaim. Reviewers praised the game’s innovative gameplay, vibrant visuals, and empowering female protagonist. The game was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Cultural Impact:

Athena’s cultural impact extended beyond the realm of gaming. The game’s iconic female protagonist became a symbol of female empowerment and inspired merchandise, fan art, and even a line of action figures. Athena’s legacy continues to inspire and empower gamers today.

In-Depth Analysis:

Level Design:

Athena’s level design is a masterpiece of platforming excellence. Each level presents a unique set of challenges, requiring players to master the game’s mechanics and use their wits to overcome obstacles. The game’s warp mechanic adds an extra layer of complexity, allowing players to skip sections or access hidden areas.

Character Development:

While Athena’s gameplay is undoubtedly its strongest aspect, the game also features a compelling narrative that drives the player forward. Athena’s quest to rescue her sister is a relatable and emotional journey, and her determination and resilience make her a truly inspiring character.

Social Commentary:

Despite its focus on action and adventure, Athena also weaves in subtle social commentary. The game’s portrayal of Athena as a strong and independent female protagonist challenges traditional gender roles and promotes female empowerment. Athena’s journey to rescue her sister can be seen as a metaphor for the struggles and triumphs of women in a male-dominated society.

Conclusion:

Athena (1986) remains a timeless classic in the platforming genre. Its innovative gameplay, vibrant visuals, empowering female protagonist, and cultural impact have solidified its place as a groundbreaking and influential title. Athena’s legacy continues to inspire and empower gamers today, proving that games can be both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Art of Fighting 2 (1994)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Art of Fighting 2: A Legendary Fighting Game with Unforgettable Characters and a Challenging AI

Introduction

Released in 1994, Art of Fighting 2 is a classic fighting game that left an indelible mark on the genre. Developed by SNK, the game is the second installment in the Art of Fighting series and features a roster of 10 playable characters, each with their own unique fighting styles and special moves.

Story

The story of Art of Fighting 2 takes place a year after the events of the original game. Geese Howard, a rising star in South Town’s criminal underworld, has called fighters to the city for a new tournament, “The King of Fighters.” Howard, who was the final boss and series villain of SNK’s other fighting game franchise Fatal Fury, seeks to use the tournament to further his own nefarious ambitions.

The player takes control of one of 10 fighters, each with their own reasons for entering the tournament. Some seek revenge against Geese Howard, while others simply wish to prove their strength. As the player progresses through the tournament, they will encounter a variety of opponents, including former allies and even members of their own family.

Gameplay

Art of Fighting 2 is a 2D fighting game with a unique gameplay system that sets it apart from other games in the genre. The game’s most notable feature is its “rage gauge,” which limits the use and effectiveness of special attacks. As the player takes damage, their rage gauge will fill up. Once the gauge is full, the player can unleash a powerful super move that can deal devastating damage to their opponent. However, using super moves too often will cause the player to become fatigued, making them more vulnerable to attack.

In addition to the rage gauge, Art of Fighting 2 also features a number of other unique gameplay mechanics. These include the ability to parry attacks, the ability to perform chain combos, and the ability to use environmental hazards to damage opponents.

Characters

Art of Fighting 2 features a roster of 10 playable characters, each with their own unique fighting styles and special moves. The characters include:

  • Ryo Sakazaki: The protagonist of the Art of Fighting series, Ryo is a skilled martial artist who seeks revenge against Geese Howard for the death of his father.
  • Robert Garcia: Ryo’s best friend and fellow martial artist, Robert is a skilled boxer who is also seeking revenge against Geese Howard.
  • Takuma Sakazaki: Ryo’s father and the founder of the Kyokugenryu karate style, Takuma is a powerful fighter who has retired from fighting but is drawn back into the tournament by Geese Howard.
  • Yuri Sakazaki: Ryo’s younger sister, Yuri is a skilled martial artist who is also seeking revenge against Geese Howard for the death of her father.
  • King: A former professional wrestler, King is a powerful fighter who is seeking to prove his strength in the tournament.
  • Mr. Big: A large and powerful fighter, Mr. Big is the final boss of the game.
  • Eiji Kisaragi: A skilled swordsman, Eiji is seeking revenge against Geese Howard for the death of his father.
  • Ryuhaku Todo: The first boss in the original Art of Fighting game, Todo is a powerful fighter who is seeking to prove his strength in the tournament.
  • Geese Howard: The main antagonist of the game, Geese Howard is a powerful fighter and the leader of the Howard Connection crime syndicate.
  • Wolfgang Krauser: A powerful fighter and Geese Howard’s right-hand man, Krauser is a secret boss who can be unlocked by fulfilling certain conditions.

Difficulty

Art of Fighting 2 is notorious for its difficulty, with many considering it to have some of the toughest opponent AI in any fighting game. The game’s AI is particularly adept at blocking and countering attacks, and it will often punish players for making mistakes. As a result, Art of Fighting 2 is a challenging but rewarding game that will test the skills of even the most experienced fighting game players.

Legacy

Art of Fighting 2 is considered to be one of the best fighting games of its era. The game’s unique gameplay mechanics, challenging AI, and memorable characters have made it a fan favorite for decades. Art of Fighting 2 has also been ported to a number of different platforms, including the Neo Geo, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch.

Conclusion

Art of Fighting 2 is a classic fighting game that deserves its place among the greats of the genre. With its unique gameplay mechanics, challenging AI, and memorable characters, Art of Fighting 2 is a game that will provide hours of enjoyment for fighting game fans of all skill levels.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Samurai Shodown 64 (1997)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Samurai Shodown 64: SNK’s Pioneering Leap into 3D

Released in 1997 for the Hyper Neo Geo 64 system, Samurai Shodown 64 stands as the fifth installment in SNK’s acclaimed Samurai Shodown series and the seventh game in the overall chronology. Notably, it marked SNK’s initial foray into the realm of 3D fighting games, a bold step that set the stage for future endeavors.

A New Dimension for Samurai Shodown

Samurai Shodown 64 represented a significant departure from its predecessors, both visually and mechanically. The game’s transition to 3D graphics introduced a fresh perspective to the series’ signature blend of fast-paced swordplay and intricate character designs. The character models were detailed and expressive, capturing the essence of the iconic warriors with remarkable precision.

The gameplay also underwent significant changes to accommodate the new 3D environment. While the core mechanics remained largely intact, the addition of a third dimension opened up new possibilities for movement and combat strategies. Players could now freely navigate the battlefield, adding a new layer of depth and complexity to the already engaging gameplay.

A Roster of Legendary Warriors

Samurai Shodown 64 featured a diverse roster of characters, each with their unique fighting styles and special abilities. The game introduced several new characters to the series, including:

  • Yagyu Jubei: A skilled swordsman from the Yagyu clan, known for his lightning-fast attacks and deadly precision.
  • Cham Cham: A young woman from Siam, who fights using a pair of hook swords and обладает exceptional agility.
  • Gaira: A massive wrestler from Russia, who relies on brute strength and powerful throws to overwhelm his opponents.

In addition to the new characters, Samurai Shodown 64 also featured a selection of returning favorites, such as Haohmaru, Nakoruru, and Galford. Each character brought their own unique strengths and weaknesses to the battlefield, ensuring a wide range of playstyles and strategies.

A Mixed Critical Reception

Upon its release, Samurai Shodown 64 received a mixed critical reception. Some reviewers praised the game’s innovative 3D graphics and expanded gameplay mechanics, while others criticized its somewhat clunky controls and occasional technical issues. Despite the mixed reviews, the game gained a cult following among fans of the series and fighting game enthusiasts alike.

A Legacy of Innovation

Despite its limited distribution outside of Japan, Samurai Shodown 64 remains an important milestone in the history of fighting games. It marked SNK’s first attempt to bring one of their flagship franchises into the 3D realm, paving the way for future 3D installments in the Samurai Shodown series and other SNK properties.

The game’s legacy also lies in its influence on the development of 3D fighting games as a whole. Samurai Shodown 64’s innovative approach to 3D combat mechanics and character design set a precedent for future titles in the genre, helping to shape the evolution of 3D fighting games.

Conclusion

Samurai Shodown 64 stands as a testament to SNK’s willingness to push the boundaries of the fighting game genre. While it may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as its predecessors, its significance lies in its role as a pioneering 3D fighting game that laid the groundwork for future advancements in the genre. Its unique blend of classic Samurai Shodown gameplay with innovative 3D mechanics continues to captivate fans to this day, ensuring its place in the annals of fighting game history.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookEmail nre-arcade with innovative 3Doldt ans 2010.com/genre/arcade/" rel="tag">Arcade, rd-cat">pgenign- to ca >pg"newp3 fema ag"new3 fema- innovative 3DamuraSilitySevebar" inch__input-1" >Search