SNK Games Collection
Founded in 1978 as Shin Nihon Kikaku (New Japan Project), SNK Corporation has cemented its legacy as a legendary Japanese game developer, celebrated for its hardcore arcade classics and iconic fighting game franchises. Known for pushing technical limits with its Neo Geo hardware, SNK's influence spans generations of gamers and developers alike.
Neo Geo Era & Arcade Dominance
SNK revolutionized gaming in the 1990s with its Neo Geo MVS arcade system (1990), offering arcade-perfect ports via the AES home console. Key milestones:- Fatal Fury (1991): Introduced lane-switching combat and became Terry Bogard's debut
- Samurai Shodown (1993): Pioneered weapon-based fighting with brutal special moves
- The King of Fighters (1994): Combined characters from multiple series into annual tournaments
Signature Fighting Game Innovations
SNK redefined the genre with:- Team Battles: KoF's 3v3 format (1994) inspired later esports titles
- Dramatic Finishers: SamSho's cinematic fatalities predated modern ultimates
- Complex Inputs: Demanding motion commands created a high skill ceiling
Financial Struggles & Revival
After bankruptcy in 2001 and acquisition by Chinese investors (2015), SNK:- Rebooted classics like Samurai Shodown (2019) with Unreal Engine
- Expanded into mobile (Metal Slug Attack) and esports (KoF XV tournaments)
- Laughed the Neo Geo Mini (2018) as retro nostalgia hardware
Cultural Impact Beyond Games
SNK's legacy includes:- Anime Adaptations: The King of Fighters: Destiny (2017)
- Crossover Appearances: Terry in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (2019)
- Merchandising: Iconic character figures and arcade stick collaborations
Conclusion
For over 40 years, SNK has embodied arcade purity and fighting game excellence. Despite financial turbulence, its commitment to deep mechanics and vibrant pixel art continues to inspire. Whether through Geese Howard's ruthless counters or Mai Shiranui's fiery fans, SNK's characters remain timeless symbols of gaming's golden age.Baseball Stars
1989
SportsBaseball Stars is a groundbreaking NES baseball game that introduced franchise mode, player statistics tracking, and team customization. Players can create and manage their own baseball teams while competing in full 162-game seasons.
Fatal Fury 2
1993
FightingThe Genesis port of SNK's seminal 1992 fighting game featuring improved mechanics from the Neo Geo original. Players choose between 8 fighters (including Terry Bogard, Andy Bogard, and Joe Higashi) to compete in the King of Fighters tournament against the deadly Wolfgang Krauser.
Burning Fight
1992
Beat 'em upSNK's 1992 arcade beat 'em up ported to Genesis, featuring three playable cops battling through Osaka and New York to dismantle the Yakuza-led crime syndicate. Known for its urban crime drama aesthetic and environmental weapon usage.
The King of Fighters '94
1994
FightingThe inaugural entry in SNK's legendary fighting series. Introduces the 3v3 team battle system, combining characters from Fatal Fury, Art of Fighting, and other SNK franchises. Features Rugal Bernstein as the first final boss.
The King of Fighters '95
1995
FightingThe second installment in SNK's legendary fighting series introduces the revolutionary Team Edit system and the return of Kyo Kusanagi's rival, Iori Yagami.
The King of Fighters '96
1996
FightingThe third installment in SNK's flagship fighting series introduces the Emergency Evasion system and removes line-switching. Features new characters like Chizuru Kagura and revisits the Orochi saga with enhanced visuals and faster gameplay.
The King of Fighters '97
1997
FightingThe King of Fighters '97 is a fighting game developed and published by SNK. It is the fourth installment in The King of Fighters series and continues the storyline of the Orochi Saga. Players can choose from a variety of characters and teams to compete in intense one-on-one battles.
The King of Fighters '98
1998
FightingDubbed 'The Slugfest Without Destiny', this dream match installment features the largest roster in KOF history with 38 fighters. Introduces the groundbreaking 'Advanced' and 'Extra' combat modes.
The King of Fighters '99
1999
FightingThe NESTS Saga begins with revolutionary Striker System and 4-member teams. Features K' as the new protagonist and the debut of the iconic KOF stage 'Esaka'.
The King of Fighters 2000
2000
FightingThe climax of the NESTS Saga introduces the refined Striker System and Zero as the final boss. Features Vanessa as a new fighter and enhanced Counter Mode mechanics.
The Last Blade
SNK's 1997 weapon-based fighter set in Bakumatsu-era Japan, featuring 12 swordsmen with unique stances (Speed/Power) and supernatural abilities. Introduces the 'Super Cancel' system and atmospheric parry mechanics.
The Last Blade 2
SNK's 1998 sequel refines the weapon-based combat with 15 characters, including newcomers Kagami and Shigen. Introduces the 'Slash/Technical' system, EX special moves, and enhanced parry mechanics set in Meiji-era Japan.
Fatal Fury 2
1992
FightingFatal Fury 2 is a 1992 arcade fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo MVS system. The sequel to the original Fatal Fury introduced new gameplay mechanics including the two-line battle system, special moves for all characters, and four new fighters joining series regulars Terry Bogard, Andy Bogard, and Joe Higashi.
Art of Fighting
1992
FightingArt of Fighting is a fighting game developed and published by SNK for arcades in 1992. The game introduced many innovative features to the genre, including a spirit gauge, desperation moves, and the ability to taunt opponents.
Real Bout Fatal Fury 2: The Newcomers
1998
FightingThe final chapter in SNK's Real Bout trilogy introduces new fighters and refines the series' signature 2-plane combat system. Features enhanced graphics and the debut of fan-favorite character Li Xiangfei.
Metal Slug 2
1998
Run and GunThe explosive sequel introduces the iconic Slugs and playable female soldiers Eri and Fio. Battle through 5 missions with enhanced weapons and the debut of zombie transformations.
Metal Slug X
1999
Run and GunThe enhanced remake of Metal Slug 2 with revamped visuals, reduced slowdown, and new weapons. Features the debut of the iconic 'Slug Copter' and 'Iron Lizard' drone.
Metal Slug 3
2000
Run and GunThe pinnacle of the series with branching paths, zombie transformations, and the largest vehicle roster. Battle alien-infected soldiers across 5 epic missions with 2-player co-op.