The Fight System: REV Up Your Gameplay
The standout feature of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is its REV System, which introduces a dynamic layer of strategy to battles. Players can utilize REV Arts for powerful combos, REV Guards for defensive maneuvers, and REV Blows to turn the tide of combat. The REV Meter adds a risk-and-reward element, as overusing these abilities can lead to an Overheat state, leaving players vulnerable. You will have to get adjusted to using your meter strategically, but at the same time if you don't use it you can lose it... and when you use it is up to you. You can come out powered up in hopes of getting a perfect, or save it for the middle of the road, or... save it until you need a little something to pull you from the brink of defeat when your health is almost gone.
For those seeking a tailored experience, the game offers two control schemes: the classic Arcade Style for purists and a simplified mode for casual players. This flexibility ensures that everyone can enjoy the game, regardless of skill level.
Finding Your Perfect Character
As someone still exploring the roster to find the best fit for my playstyle, the journey is part of the fun (while avoiding L's as much as possible). While Terry Bogard and Mai Shiranui may not resonate with me as much (even back in the day in terms of controls), my fingers are crossed that characters like Billy Kane and others from the past might offer the familiarity (control wise) and versatility I seek from playing with them back in the day. Just to be clear, it's not that I don't like Terry & Mai, they're the two most recognizable characters from SNK fighting games in my opinion. It all boils down to what characters work for me. By the way, Billy bossed up in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves! Outside of his new look, he is now the new kingpin of Geese Howard's organization... and he's gunning for Terry.
The diverse roster includes returning favorites and new faces, each with unique abilities and fighting styles. I like a straight forward style, so regardless of using specials... I'm able to strike and get into my groove. Ryo Sakazaki is one of my go to character's from King of Fighters with a style that almost reminds me of Ryu's from Street Fighter. Ryu + Ryo were my front runners in Capcom VS SNK (on Dreamcast). My next character to try out is Marco Rodrigues for sure (his gi grabbed my attention). So I'm testing them out slowly but sure... and I look forward to seeing who connects with who on the roster.
There are some really interesting additions to say the least, which includes the anime loving DJ... Salvatore Ganacci (that Salvatore) + Cristiano Ronaldo (yep, that one)... who looks like they both can serve up some crazy combos in a tournament.
Seeing someone else work magic with a select character is one thing... but if you aren't big on fighting games, the goal is to find the one or more that work well for you. That said, once you find a few characters, practice... practice... practice.
The Good, the Bad, and the UI
Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves shines once you make it through the tutorial, but the user interface (UI) leaves much to be desired. The eye catching home screen contrasts sharply with the clunky map navigation, which feels more suited to a mouse than a controller. A snap-and-move selection system would have been much better. The goal is to minimize the frustration and keep the cool on 10! Right?
The arcade selection screen, while functional, lacks the appeal expected from a modern fighting game. Where's the oomph? I was looking at it like... what is this?! It's 2025, there could've been movement from the character when you select them and have action in the background... based on the characters location. This gets the job done, but... it stinks and it doesn't feel cohesive:
Additionally, the dialogue screens in the Episodes of South Town mode could benefit from voiceovers to enhance immersion. While animated cutscenes after defeating the final boss could have been an option, I'm not mad at the comic-style presentation.
Up Your Game... Get A Fight stick!
For the ultimate Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves... experience, playing with an arcade fight stick is highly recommended. It enhances precision and brings the nostalgic arcade feel to your gameplay. You can find great options here. The PXN 008 Fight Stick is less than $40 right now (34% Off).
Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is available on both PC and console. Choose your platform and dive into the action!
Despite its flaws, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is a solid addition to the fighting game genre. Its innovative mechanics and diverse roster make it worth exploring, especially for fans of the series. With a few updates, this game could truly become a lovely return to the franchise. Either way, nice job overall.
