After a 26-year absence, Fatal Fury returns with City of the Wolves, a highly anticipated entry that bridges the gap between nostalgia and innovation. SNK Corporation’s classic fighting franchise, known for its rich history and genre-defining mechanics, is set to launch on April 24, 2025. The game will continue the story from Garou: Mark of the Wolves (1999), introducing modernized features while honoring its arcade roots.
A Legacy Reborn: The Return of Fatal Fury
The Fatal Fury series has been pivotal in shaping the fighting game genre since its debut in 1991. It introduced the two-plane battle system and laid the groundwork for SNK’s larger fighting universe, including The King of Fighters. With City of the Wolves, SNK revives its flagship series, tapping into the retro appeal that long-time fans cherish while presenting fresh mechanics for modern audiences.
REV System: Dynamic, Fast-Paced Combat
One of the game’s most compelling features is the new REV System. REV, short for “Revival,” adds a layer of strategic intensity to battles. Players can utilize three key REV actions:
- REV Arts: Powerful super moves that can turn the tide of battle.
- REV Accel: Allows fighters to cancel moves mid-combo, creating opportunities for creative and extended sequences.
- REV Guard: A defensive mechanic that rewards precise timing, enabling players to counterattack during an opponent’s assault.
These mechanics ensure each fight is unpredictable, encouraging aggressive gameplay and rewarding skilled execution.
Expansive Character Roster with Fan Favorites
While SNK has revealed only part of the roster, confirmed characters include Terry Bogard, Rock Howard, and Hotaru Futaba. The developer promises a mix of returning fan favorites and new fighters, each with distinctive playstyles. The open beta test will give players access to eight characters, allowing fans to familiarize themselves with the game’s mechanics ahead of launch.
Open Beta: A Sneak Peek for Fans
An open beta is scheduled from February 20 to February 24, 2025, across PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam. This beta will feature:
- Online Modes: Ranked Match, Casual Match, and Room Match
- Offline Modes: A tutorial to help new players grasp the REV System
- Character Variety: Eight playable fighters showcasing the diverse playstyles
This early access period provides an excellent opportunity for fans to offer feedback and prepare for the competitive scene.
Cross-Platform Availability and Performance
City of the Wolves will launch on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (via Steam and the Epic Games Store). The game promises smooth cross-platform netcode, utilizing rollback technology to ensure responsive and consistent online matches—a critical feature for competitive fighters.
The Rise of Retro Fighting Games
The return of Fatal Fury isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s part of a broader revival of classic fighting games. With the success of Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, and the Mortal Kombat reboot, SNK is positioning itself to capitalize on the genre’s renewed popularity. Fighting games have seen a resurgence, thanks to accessible mechanics and the growing influence of esports events like Evo and Capcom Cup.
Pre-Orders and Special Editions
SNK has already opened pre-orders for the game, with a Special Edition that includes the base game and a Season Pass for additional characters. The company confirmed that post-launch content will include crossover fighters, such as Ken and Chun-Li from Street Fighter, marking an exciting collaboration between two iconic fighting game universes.
Mark Your Calendar: April 24, 2025
As fans gear up for the open beta, excitement builds for the official launch on April 24, 2025. Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves aims to strike a balance between classic gameplay and modern mechanics, delivering an experience that appeals to both long-time fans and newcomers.
Key Takeaways
- Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves revives the series after 26 years with new gameplay mechanics.
- The game launches on April 24, 2025 for various gaming platforms.
- Playtests have received praise for the combo system and momentum-shifting features.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves introduces innovative fighting systems and a diverse cast of characters. The game blends classic elements with modern twists to create a fresh experience for both new and returning players.
Revolutionary Combo and Battle Systems
The Rev System forms the core of City of the Wolves’ combat. This mechanic allows players to cancel special moves into other specials, opening up creative combo possibilities. Smart Style simplifies inputs for newcomers while maintaining depth for veterans.
Just Defense rewards precise blocking, granting meter and positioning advantages. Selective Potential Gear lets fighters choose unique abilities before matches, adding strategic layers. Braking enables quick stops mid-dash, enhancing movement options.
These systems work together to create dynamic fights with constant momentum shifts. Players can string together long combos or focus on footsies and punishes, adapting their playstyle to each matchup.
Dynamic Character Roster
City of the Wolves features a mix of returning favorites and fresh faces. Series mainstays Terry Bogard and Mai Shiranui return with updated movesets. Rock Howard and B. Jenet from Garou: Mark of the Wolves make their comeback.
New character Marco Rodriguez brings a unique capoeira-inspired fighting style to the mix. Each fighter has distinct strengths, weaknesses, and playstyles to master.
The roster aims for balance between offense and defense, grapplers and zoners. This variety encourages players to experiment and find their ideal match. Post-launch DLC will expand the lineup further, keeping the competitive scene evolving.
Release Information and Special Features
Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves launches on April 24, 2025. The game will be available on multiple platforms and offers various editions with bonus content. Online features aim to enhance the multiplayer experience.
Availability Across Platforms
Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves will release on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. The game supports cross-platform play, allowing users on different systems to compete against each other. This wide availability ensures players can enjoy the game on their preferred platform.
SNK Corporation has optimized the game for each system. The PS5 and Xbox Series X versions will feature enhanced graphics and faster load times. PC players can adjust settings to match their hardware capabilities.
Pre-Order and Edition Details
Pre-orders for Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves start on January 15, 2025. Players can choose between different editions:
- Standard Edition: $59.99 / €59.99
- Special Edition: Includes base game and Season Pass 1
- Deluxe Edition: Features additional bonus content
Digital pre-orders come with an exclusive Terry Bogard costume. The Season Pass 1 grants access to future downloadable content, including new characters and stages.
SNK offers a loyalty bonus for fans who pre-order through the PlayStation Store or Xbox Marketplace. These players receive early access to the “Episodes of South Town” game mode.
Online Functionality and Community Features
Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves boasts robust online features to support its competitive scene. The game uses rollback netcode for smooth online matches with minimal lag. Players can join ranked matches or create custom room matches with friends.
Other online features include:
- Leaderboards
- Replay system
- Spectator mode
- In-game tournament organization tools
The game also includes a jukebox feature, allowing players to customize the soundtrack with music from previous Fatal Fury titles. Regular online events and challenges will keep the community engaged post-launch.
SNK plans to support the game with balance updates based on community feedback and tournament results. This commitment aims to maintain a healthy competitive scene for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Players have many questions about Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves. The game’s roster, special editions, platform availability, and gameplay mechanics are hot topics among fans.
What characters are included in the Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves’ roster?
SNK has not revealed the full roster yet. Terry Bogard and Rock Howard are confirmed to return. The company promises a mix of fan favorites and new faces.
Is there a collector’s edition available for Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves?
SNK has not announced a collector’s edition. Pre-order bonuses may be revealed closer to the release date.
Will Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves have an option for a physical edition?
A physical edition is planned for consoles. Digital versions will be available on all platforms.
Can players experience Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves on PS4?
SNK has not confirmed PS4 compatibility. The game is announced for current-gen consoles and PC.
Are there any new characters introduced in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves?
SNK has teased new fighters joining the roster. Character reveals are expected in the months leading up to release.
How does the combo system in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves differ from its predecessors?
The new REV system allows for more dynamic combos. Players can chain moves together in unique ways, creating exciting gameplay possibilities.
