Neo Geo Cup '98: The Road to the Victory

Game Details:

This title inherits the best visual elements of the *Super Sidekicks* series, with player animations that are both detailed and powerful. While the game is not officially licensed by FIFA, the player names are clever variations of real players (for example, Ronaldo is changed to Rosa), which veteran fans will recognize at a glance. The game is packed with content, featuring not only a full "World Cup" mode but also tournaments for various continents (such as the European Cup, American Cup, Asian Cup, etc.).

Compared to its predecessor, the '98 edition optimizes the shooting system and goalkeeper AI, making matches more unpredictable. Furthermore, an "Incident" system has been added, where players can get injured or receive a red card during intense clashes, adding a touch of management simulation to the pure arcade experience. In terms of both visual intensity and sound design, it represented the pinnacle of 2D soccer games at the time.

Game Guide:

【Core Controls & Advanced Techniques】

• The basic controls are A (Short Pass / Tackle), B (Shoot / Long Pass / Slide Tackle), and C (Switch Player / Lob).
• Short Pass Penetration: The defensive AI in the arcade version is quite aggressive, so it's recommended to use the A button for quick one-two passes. Near the edge of the penalty box, hold a direction and press B to perform a Curve Shot, which is key to beating top-tier goalkeepers.
• Power Gauge Control: Managing the power bar when shooting is crucial. Too little power and the shot will be saved; too much and it will fly over the bar. The safest method is to dribble near the box and lightly tap B for a ground shot the moment the goalkeeper charges out.

【Team Selection & Tactics】

• Team Strategy: Although the 64 teams have different stats, traditional powerhouses like Brazil, France, and Croatia have a clear advantage in speed and shooting power. Beginners are advised to choose teams with a high Attack rating (ATK).
• Defensive Secret: Don't just blindly use the B button to slide tackle, as this can easily lead to a foul or even a red card. It's better to use 'positional defending' by pressing the A button to perform a shoulder charge or steal the ball, which is less risky and allows for a faster counter-attack.

【Handling Incidents】

If a key player gets injured during a match, their performance will drop significantly. During halftime, be sure to check player stamina on the Status screen. If you have enough funds (in some handheld versions), purchasing enhancement items like "Shin Guards" can effectively reduce the chance of injury.

【Secrets to Winning】

When the ball is dropping from the air, rapidly pressing the B button can trigger a spectacular Diving Header or a Volley Kick. These types of shots have a very high success rate and are incredibly satisfying to pull off. In the final stages, memorizing the opponent's forward movement patterns and cutting off their passing lanes is the surefire way to complete the "Road to Victory."