After 26 Years, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves Represents a Daring Comeback for a Neglected Fighting Franchise
In a time when fighting games are ruled by prominent titles like Street Fighter, Tekken, and Mortal Kombat, the revival of Fatal Fury—a franchise that has been inactive for over two decades—takes even the most experienced genre enthusiasts by surprise. Not only is Fatal Fury returning with a new installment called City of the Wolves, but it is also doing so in a manner that challenges contemporary fighting game norms. At Summer Game Fest 2024, SNK unveiled a game that serves as both a tribute to devoted fans and a daring, clear-cut vision for the future of fighting games.
A Resurrected Icon
Fatal Fury made its first appearance in 1991, created by SNK as a direct rival to Capcom’s Street Fighter II. While it never reached the same level of worldwide fame, it garnered a dedicated fan base due to its unique characters, groundbreaking mechanics (including the two-plane fighting system), and stylish aesthetics. The series reached its peak with 1999’s Garou: Mark of the Wolves, a critically lauded title often regarded as one of the best 2D fighters in history.
And then—silence. For 26 years, Fatal Fury remained inactive, with its characters only existing within SNK’s crossover series The King of Fighters. This is why the announcement of City of the Wolves was met with a mix of excitement and skepticism. Could a franchise that had been quiet for so long truly make a significant comeback?
City of the Wolves: A Fresh Path
At first glance, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves appears to adhere to the classic fighting game template: a diverse roster of vibrant characters, spectacular special moves, and fierce one-on-one confrontations. However, a closer look reveals that this is far from just another nostalgia-fueled reboot.
City of the Wolves reintroduces several beloved characters from Garou: Mark of the Wolves, such as fan favorites like B. Jenet, Terry Bogard, and the menacing Kane. Each character showcases a unique design and playstyle, featuring exaggerated silhouettes and unforgettable personalities that stand out in a genre often criticized for its generic fighters.
What truly distinguishes City of the Wolves is its gameplay philosophy. Unlike many modern fighting games that tailor the experience for newcomers with simplified controls and cinematic single-player campaigns, Fatal Fury celebrates complexity and necessitates mastery.
A Challenging Yet Rewarding Journey
In stark contrast to the beginner-friendly approach taken by titles like Street Fighter 6, which offer expansive campaigns and easy control schemes, City of the Wolves plunges players into a rigorous challenge. Even the earliest foes in arcade mode will punish careless play, and the game’s mechanics demand high levels of precision and comprehension.
This may seem daunting, but there’s logic behind the chaos. While the game poses undeniable challenges, it is also slower and more decipherable than many of its peers. This creates an ideal environment for players eager to deeply understand the nuances of fighting games—terms such as “okizeme,” “whiff punish,” and “meaty” are not just jargon here; they represent essential tools at your disposal.
City of the Wolves features comprehensive tutorials and practice modes aimed at helping players master its mechanics. Unlike some other fighters where every character plays vastly differently, Fatal Fury’s roster adheres to a cohesive design philosophy. Once you grasp the game’s fundamental mechanics, you can apply them across the entire character lineup, simplifying the process of switching characters without starting over.
A Response to Modern Fighting Game Trends
In many aspects, City of the Wolves serves as a purposeful counter to the prevailing trend in fighting games. While other titles attempt to maximize accessibility, SNK has opted to produce a game thatvalues the player’s intellect and dedication. It prioritizes the satisfaction derived from learning, improving, and ultimately mastering a rich and rewarding system over instant rewards.
This approach may not resonate with everyone. Casual gamers seeking an immediate thrill might find the steep learning curve uninviting. However, for those willing to commit their time, City of the Wolves presents a uniquely satisfying experience that few contemporary games can rival.
A Cult Classic Reimagined
The return of Fatal Fury transcends mere nostalgia; it serves as a declaration. SNK believes there remains an audience for fighting games that challenge players instead of pampering them. Based on initial reactions, this gamble might be worthwhile.
City of the Wolves is poised to become a significant title within a saturated genre. It’s a game that dares to be distinct, honoring its legacy while paving a new way forward. For longtime supporters, it’s a dream realized. For newcomers, it’s an opportunity to unearth a forgotten treasure—and to prove their mettle along the way.
Whether it achieves mainstream success or stays a cult favorite, one fact is undeniable: Fatal Fury