KOF EX2: Howling Blood

Game Details:

As a sequel to the previous work "Neo Blood," "Howling Blood" has significantly improved character roster, storyline presentation, and system mechanics. The game features over 20 playable characters, including popular characters like Kyo Kusanagi, Iori Yagami, and Mai Shiranui, as well as new original characters from Marvelous, such as Alba Meira and Sylphide Alcaena.

In terms of the combat system, the game retains the classic three-person team setup, the power gauge system, and super special moves, while also strengthening the combo system and character balance. Despite the limitations of the GBA platform, it still achieves excellent impact sensation and smooth control experience.

The story of this work is independent of the official KOF timeline, revolving around the conflict between the "Evil Organization Factor" and mysterious fighters, emphasizing character growth and the conflict of fate. The story mode is also deeper and more animated than the previous game.

Editor's Recommendation:

On handheld platforms, fighting games are often limited by controls and display capabilities, but "KOF EX2" can be considered a masterpiece that breaks through these limits. Compared to its predecessor, this game features more refined graphics, smoother character animations, and more dazzling special move effects. Moreover, the original storyline and characters make this work unique within the KOF series, offering a fresh experience even for long-time fans.

The controls are simple and easy to learn, but the combo system offers enough depth to suit players of all types. Whether you are a loyal KOF fan or a newcomer to fighting games, you can find fun and challenges in "Howling Blood."

Game Guide:

I. Recommended Team Combinations

• Kyo Kusanagi + Mai Shiranui + Terry Bogard: A classic combination of offense and defense, suitable for beginners.
• Alba Meira + Iori Yagami + Ramon: An offensive lineup, suitable for players who enjoy combos and pressure tactics.
• Hidden characters like Sylphide possess powerful super special moves but require completing specific conditions in story mode to unlock.

II. Core Combat Techniques

• Power Gauge Usage: Reasonable allocation of the power gauge allows for the release of MAX super special moves, instantly turning the tide of battle. It is recommended to save the power gauge for the third character as a finisher.
• Rhythm Control: On the GBA platform, with limited frame rates, rhythm control is even more crucial. Practicing "light attack start + special move finish" combinations is recommended.
• Counter Mechanism: Use "short dodges" to evade attacks and counter, which can disrupt the opponent's rhythm.

III. Hidden Features and Story Hints

• Clearing the game at different difficulties unlocks bonus images and variations in character dialogue.
• "Character Relationship Value" affects the story's ending and team ending voiceovers. Trying different character combinations can trigger hidden dialogues.
• Alba and Sylphide's opposing backgrounds result in special pre-battle cutscenes when they are in a two-person team.

IV. Example of Technical Combo (Kyo Kusanagi)

• Standing Light Punch → Crouching Light Kick → Forward + Light Punch (Combo) → Hyaku Shiki: Oniyaki
• Back + Heavy Punch → Oni Burning → MAX Gauge → Orotchinagi (Super Special Move)

The above combos are highly practical and suitable for practicing rhythm and burst damage.