Summary
- Release Year: 1998
- Genres: Arcade, Fighting
- Platforms: Android, Arcade, Neo Geo AES, Neo Geo CD, Neo Geo MVS, PlayStation, Wii
- Developers: SNK
- Publishers: SNK
The King of Fighters ’98: The Ultimate Dream Match
Released in 1998, The King of Fighters ’98 (KOF ’98) is a 2D fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade platform. It is the fifth installment in the King of Fighters series and is considered by many to be one of the greatest fighting games of all time.
KOF ’98 features a roster of 38 characters, the largest in the series at the time. The game introduces several new gameplay mechanics, including the “Advanced Guard System” which allows players to parry attacks and the “Roulette Team Edit” system which allows players to create their own custom teams of three characters.
KOF ’98 was a critical and commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. It has been praised for its fast-paced gameplay, stunning graphics, and huge roster of characters. The game has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, including the PlayStation, Sega Saturn, Dreamcast, and Nintendo Switch.
Gameplay
KOF ’98 is a 2D fighting game played on a 2D plane. Players control one of 38 characters and must defeat their opponent by depleting their health bar. The game features a variety of attacks, including punches, kicks, throws, and special moves.
One of the most unique features of KOF ’98 is the “Advanced Guard System”. This system allows players to parry attacks by pressing the guard button just before the attack hits. Parrying an attack will cause the attacker to be stunned, giving the defender an opportunity to counterattack.
Another new feature in KOF ’98 is the “Roulette Team Edit” system. This system allows players to create their own custom teams of three characters. Players can choose from any of the 38 characters in the game, and can even create teams of characters from different franchises.
Characters
KOF ’98 features a roster of 38 characters, the largest in the series at the time. The roster includes all of the characters from the previous KOF games, as well as several new characters.
Some of the most popular characters in KOF ’98 include:
- Kyo Kusanagi: The protagonist of the KOF series, Kyo is a Japanese martial artist who uses fire-based attacks.
- Iori Yagami: Kyo’s rival, Iori is a Japanese martial artist who uses purple flames and blood-based attacks.
- Terry Bogard: A popular character from the Fatal Fury series, Terry is an American martial artist who uses a variety of punches and kicks.
- Mai Shiranui: A kunoichi from the Fatal Fury series, Mai is known for her powerful kicks and revealing outfit.
- Athena Asamiya: A psychic from the Psycho Soldier series, Athena uses a variety of projectile attacks and telekinesis.
Graphics
KOF ’98 features stunning 2D graphics that were some of the best in the industry at the time. The characters are all beautifully drawn and animated, and the backgrounds are detailed and colorful. The game also features a variety of special effects, such as particle effects and screen-shaking, that add to the excitement of the gameplay.
Sound
KOF ’98 features a catchy soundtrack that perfectly complements the fast-paced gameplay. The music is a mix of rock, techno, and traditional Japanese music. The sound effects are also top-notch, and help to create a sense of immersion for the player.
Legacy
KOF ’98 is considered by many to be one of the greatest fighting games of all time. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, stunning graphics, and huge roster of characters have made it a favorite among fighting game fans for over two decades. KOF ’98 has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, and is still enjoyed by players today.
The King of Fighters ’98 is a true classic of the fighting game genre. It is a game that has stood the test of time and remains one of the most popular and respected fighting games in the world. If you are a fan of fighting games, then you owe it to yourself to check out KOF ’98.
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
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