The King of Fighters EX: New Blood

Game Details:

This title marks the KOF series' debut on the Game Boy Advance platform, continuing the traditional team battle system of "The King of Fighters." Players can select three characters from over 20 classic fighters to form a team and participate in intense fighting matches. The game retains core mechanics such as the iconic power gauge system, special moves, and super special moves, allowing handheld gamers to experience arcade-level fighting thrills.

In terms of story, this installment is set after "KOF '99" and revolves around Kyo Kusanagi's rival, "Reiji Aran," while also introducing a brand-new original storyline for the GBA version. The art style features a detailed pixel aesthetic with excellent impact feedback, and it offers versus and training modes to enhance replayability.

Editor's Recommendation:

As a spin-off of the KOF series, "Neo Blood" performs exceptionally well on handheld platforms, retaining the essence of the arcade original. For veteran players, it's a mobile classic memory, and for new players, the compact and fluid combat rhythm, unique characters, and dazzling special moves make it easy to pick up and enjoy.

It's particularly worth mentioning that the game includes original characters and storylines, ensuring series continuity while offering fans a refreshing content experience. Achieving excellent impact feel and smooth controls despite the GBA's resource limitations is no small feat. Whether you are a loyal fan of the KOF series or a fighting game enthusiast, this title is worth trying.

Game Strategy:

I. Team Composition Strategy

• Recommended Team: Kyo Kusanagi + Iori Yagami + Chizuru Kagura
• This is a classic KOF lineup with balanced output and rich skills, suitable for various playstyles.
• Beginners can choose characters like Terry, Robert, or Leona, who have simple controls and stable moves.

II. Key Combat Techniques

• Building the Power Gauge is Key: Strategically manage the power gauge to unleash super special moves, which can turn the tide of battle at crucial moments.
• Combo Practice: Character normal attacks can be linked with special moves or super special moves to form high-damage combos.Example: Kyo's "Close Punch -> Down-Forward Light Kick -> Hyaku Shiki: Oni-Giri" is a practical combo.
• Counter-Attack: Learn to use emergency evasions (→→ or ←←) and guard counters to improve survivability.

III. Story Mode and Hidden Elements

• Clearing different difficulty levels will unlock additional characters or story cutscenes. It is recommended to challenge story mode multiple times.
• Hidden characters like Rugal require meeting specific conditions (e.g., defeating a certain opponent without taking damage) to challenge.
• Character affinity affects ending dialogues. Try to use the same team for consecutive battles.

IV. GBA-Specific Tips

• The GBA's limited button layout requires customizing key bindings to accommodate complex moves.
• Although the screen is small, you can anticipate attacks by familiarizing yourself with enemy movements, allowing for preemptive defense.