Story

The King of Fighters ’97 continues the saga of the popular fighting game series, bringing to a conclusion the Orochi Saga, which began in The King of Fighters ’95. The narrative is steeped in myth and legend, revolving around the resurrection of the Orochi, an ancient evil. The tournament serves as a backdrop for an epic struggle between those who seek to resurrect Orochi and those who aim to prevent its return.

In this edition, players are introduced to the New Faces Team, consisting of Yashiro Nanakase, Shermie, and Chris, who are secretly the Four Heavenly Kings of Orochi. Their ultimate goal is to revive their master by using the energy generated from the fighting tournament. Meanwhile, the story also follows the ongoing rivalry between Kyo Kusanagi and Iori Yagami, descendants of clans tasked with sealing the Orochi’s power.

The narrative culminates in a dramatic showdown that tests the morality and alliances of its characters, making it one of the more engaging storylines in the fighting game genre at the time. The intricate plot and character development provided players with a deeper sense of connection and motivation beyond the usual tournament fighting trope.

Gameplay

The King of Fighters ’97 refines the series’ signature three-on-three team battle system, offering players more strategic depth and variety in combat. Players select three fighters to form a team, and battles are fought one-on-one until one team is entirely defeated.

Advanced and Extra Modes

The game introduces two distinct play styles: Advanced and Extra modes. Advanced Mode allows players to store multiple Power Gauges, which can be used for Super Special Moves and enhanced abilities, offering a more aggressive play style. Extra Mode, reminiscent of previous series entries, focuses on building a single gauge and provides a defensive approach with the ability to dodge attacks.

Character Roster

The roster in The King of Fighters ’97 is impressively diverse, featuring 29 characters, including series staples like Kyo Kusanagi, Iori Yagami, and Terry Bogard, as well as new entrants like the enigmatic Orochi Team. Each character has a unique fighting style and move set, allowing players to find a team that suits their play style.

Strategic Depth

The game is celebrated for its strategic depth, encouraging players to master each character’s abilities and learn how to counter their opponents effectively. The introduction of the Advanced and Extra modes added an extra layer of strategy, allowing players to adapt their tactics based on their preferred play style.

Graphics and Sound

Visuals

The King of Fighters ’97 pushed the limits of 2D graphics at the time, with detailed character sprites and dynamic backgrounds that set the stage for each fight. The animation is fluid, giving each character a distinct personality through their movements and attacks. The attention to detail in character design and stage aesthetics contributes significantly to the game’s immersive experience.

Soundtrack and Audio

The game’s soundtrack stands out as one of its most memorable features, with a variety of themes that capture the essence of each fighter and their respective backgrounds. The music ranges from intense battle tracks to more atmospheric tunes, enhancing the overall ambiance of the game. Sound effects are crisp and impactful, adding weight to each punch and kick, making the gameplay experience more visceral.

Legacy and Reception

The King of Fighters ’97 is often hailed as one of the best entries in the series, thanks to its refined mechanics, engaging story, and memorable character roster. It solidified the series’ reputation as a leading title in the fighting game genre, competing with other heavyweights like Street Fighter and Tekken.

Critical Acclaim

The game received widespread acclaim from both critics and players upon its release. Reviewers praised its deep mechanics, the inclusion of Advanced and Extra modes, and the rich narrative that concluded the Orochi Saga. The character designs and animations were also highlighted as standout features that set a new standard for 2D fighting games.

Influence on Future Titles

The King of Fighters ’97’s impact on subsequent games in the series is undeniable. It set a precedent for storytelling in fighting games and demonstrated the importance of character development and narrative depth. Its success ensured that The King of Fighters would become an annual franchise, with each subsequent release building upon the foundation laid by this installment.

Conclusion

The King of Fighters ’97 remains a landmark title in the history of fighting games, a testament to SNK’s ability to blend engaging storytelling with complex and rewarding gameplay. Its influence is still felt in today’s fighting games, where narrative and character development are given as much importance as gameplay mechanics. The game not only concluded the Orochi Saga with style but also set the stage for future installments, ensuring its legacy within the genre.

For fans and newcomers alike, The King of Fighters ’97 offers a rich experience that embodies the essence of 2D fighting games. Its strategic depth, compelling story, and unforgettable characters make it a must-play for anyone interested in the genre. Ultimately, it stands as a pillar of the fighting game community, celebrated for its contributions to the evolution of the genre and its enduring appeal.