General: You're looking at the newest release to the KOF series... This version includes a nice selection of BRAND new characters, as well as a few cross-overs from Garou Mark of the Wolves! ...Bad Ass...The gameplay system is 3-on-3, and now players can switch out their characters on call... That's right, a tag-system! ...It's about time SNK!!!
   Overall, the graphics have undergone a slight, yet significant improvement... First off, the backgrounds are designed very nicely, probably the best of the series. The super move effects have also been revamped, and look better than ever. Several classic characters have also been given new animations, stances, outfits, etc... So it really looks like a fresh game this time around, although the animation still isn't the "best" we've seen. The brand new characters are all good designs for the most part, and have pretty intricate move lists... A nice plus!
   The gameplay also feels noticeably "smoother" for some reason. SNK definitely tweaked the system (more than usual this time around), and the characters flow and, quite simply, "move around" a lot better. Moves also seem to register a tad faster...
Manufacturer: SNK Playmore
Platforms: Neo Geo
Year: 2003
Characters: Kyo, Benimaru, Daimon, Terry, Tizoc, Gato, Joe, Leona, Ralf, Clark, Kim, Chang, Ryo, Robert, Athena, Mai, Yuri, Malin, Ash Crimson, Duo Lon, Shen Woo, King, Iori, Yamazaki, Mary, Billy, Shingo, K', Maxima, Whip, Jhun, Chizuru, Hinako, Adelheid, Mukai
Comment: The new gameplay system definitely ups the fun factor as well as the excitement and intensity of the match. So far, I'd say it's becoming my favorite KOF of all time... It's almost as if SNK answered my concerns from KOF2002... They added a new gameplay element, improved gameplay mechanics, and put in a few of my favorite characters... Spooky. Thanks SNK.
Rating: 9.0