Introduction
Released in 1998 by SNK, The King of Fighters '98 (KOF '98) is widely regarded as one of the greatest 2D fighting games of all time. This entry in the KOF franchise refined the mechanics of previous installments, featuring a massive roster, improved balance, and fast-paced gameplay. Unlike earlier titles, KOF '98 was a non-canonical “Dream Match”, allowing fan-favorite characters from past games to return regardless of the storyline.
Design and Development
Developed by SNK, KOF '98 was built on the Neo Geo MVS hardware, showcasing detailed sprite animations, smooth gameplay, and a refined combat system. The game was designed to be the definitive competitive entry in the KOF series, fine-tuning character balance and bringing back characters that had been previously removed from the roster.
With no storyline constraints, SNK focused on delivering the ultimate roster and polished mechanics, ensuring that KOF '98 would be one of the most respected titles in the franchise.
Gameplay Video
Gameplay and Mechanics
KOF '98 enhanced the classic King of Fighters formula with several refinements:
- Two Fighting Modes – Players could choose between Advanced Mode (faster movement, power stock system) and Extra Mode (traditional charge-based mechanics).
- Expanded Roster – Featuring 38 playable characters, including returning fighters from previous KOF games.
- Refined Combat System – Improved hit detection, balanced character matchups, and streamlined mechanics for competitive play.
- Dodge and Roll Mechanics – Enhanced movement and evasion options allowed for deeper strategy in fights.
- Dream Match Format – No storyline restrictions, meaning fan-favorite fighters returned, making it a celebration of KOF history.
Characters and Teams
KOF '98 featured one of the largest rosters in the franchise at the time, bringing back classic teams and rivals:
- Hero Team – Kyo Kusanagi, Benimaru Nikaido, Goro Daimon
- Fatal Fury Team – Terry Bogard, Andy Bogard, Joe Higashi
- Art of Fighting Team – Ryo Sakazaki, Robert Garcia, Yuri Sakazaki
- Ikari Warriors Team – Ralf Jones, Clark Still, Heidern
- Psycho Soldier Team – Athena Asamiya, Sie Kensou, Chin Gentsai
- Korea Team – Kim Kaphwan, Chang Koehan, Choi Bounge
- USA Sports Team – Heavy D!, Lucky Glauber, Brian Battler
- Boss Team – Rugal Bernstein, Vice, Mature (hidden characters)
Cultural Impact and Legacy
KOF '98 is widely regarded as one of the best fighting games ever made, earning a dedicated competitive scene in arcades and tournaments worldwide. It became a staple in eSports competitions, especially in Latin America and Asia, where KOF remains one of the most beloved fighting game franchises.
Due to its popularity, the game has seen multiple re-releases and enhanced editions, including The King of Fighters '98 Ultimate Match, which introduced new characters, balance changes, and online play.
KOF '98 remains a fan-favorite and is often considered the best entry in the series, standing as a prime example of SNK’s mastery in the arcade fighting genre.
Fun Facts
- KOF '98 was the first in the series to feature a Dream Match format, meaning characters who were previously killed off could return.
- The game introduced Advanced and Extra Mode, giving players distinct fighting styles to choose from.
- KOF '98 was so popular that The King of Fighters '98 Ultimate Match was later released in 2008 with additional content.
- It remains one of the most played games in retro fighting tournaments, with a dedicated fanbase decades later.
- SNK’s balance tweaks in KOF '98 made it one of the most competitive and well-balanced fighters of its time.
Conclusion
The King of Fighters '98 is often hailed as one of the best 2D fighting games ever made, thanks to its fluid combat, diverse roster, and legendary status in competitive gaming. With its Dream Match format, balanced mechanics, and lasting influence, it continues to be a cornerstone of the KOF franchise.
Related Pages
- Fatal Fury – SNK’s original fighting game that led to KOF.
- Street Fighter II – The game that revolutionized the fighting genre.
- Tekken – One of the most iconic 3D fighters in arcade history.