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 like the iconic power gauge system, special moves, and super special moves, allowing handheld players to experience arcade-level fighting excitement.

In terms of story, this title 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 adopts a pixelated aesthetic, rendered with exquisite detail and delivering excellent impact feedback. It offers both versus and training modes, enhancing the game's replayability.

Editor's Recommendation:

As a spin-off of the KOF series, "Neo Blood" performs exceptionally well on the handheld platform, preserving the essence of the arcade original. For veteran players, this is a classic memory on a mobile platform. 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 a storyline, ensuring the series' continuity while offering fans a refreshing new content experience. Achieving excellent impact feedback and smooth controls within the GBA's resource limitations is no easy feat. Whether you are a loyal fan of the KOF series or a fighting game enthusiast, this title is worth trying.

Game Guide:

I. Team Composition Strategy

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

II. Key Combat Techniques

• Conserving the Power Gauge is Crucial: Strategically managing the power gauge to unleash super special moves can turn the tide of battle at critical moments.
• Combo Practice: A character's normal attacks can be chained with special moves or super special moves to form high-damage combos.E.g., Kyo's "Close Light Punch → Down-Forward Light Kick → Hyakushiki: Oniyaki" 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 the story mode on different difficulties will unlock additional characters or cinematic cutscenes. It is recommended to challenge the story mode multiple times.
• Hidden characters like Rugal require meeting specific conditions (e.g., defeating certain opponents without taking damage) to be unlocked for a challenge.
• Character affinity affects the ending dialogue; try to use the same team for consecutive battles.

IV. Handheld-Specific Tips

• The GBA's limited button layout requires custom key mappings to accommodate complex moves.
• Although the screen is small, by familiarizing yourself with enemy attack patterns, you can anticipate attacks and defend preemptively.