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.Samurai Shodown
Samurai Shodown is a 1993 weapon-based fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade system. Set in 18th century Japan, it revolutionized fighting games by introducing deliberate pacing, weapon combat mechanics, and the iconic Rage Gauge system.
Samurai Shodown II
Samurai Shodown II is a 1994 weapon-based fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade system. The sequel to the groundbreaking Samurai Shodown introduced 5 new characters, refined the Rage Gauge system, and added fatalities - making it one of the most violent fighting games of its era.
Samurai Shodown III: Blades of Blood
Samurai Shodown III: Blades of Blood is a 1995 weapon-based fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade system. This radical reinvention of the series introduced a branching storyline, stance-based combat, and the revolutionary 'Rage Slash' system that dramatically altered gameplay dynamics.
Samurai Shodown IV: Amakusa's Revenge
Samurai Shodown IV: Amakusa's Revenge is a 1996 weapon-based fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade system. Serving as the climax of the original Samurai Shodown saga, it refined III's mechanics while bringing back fan-favorite elements like fatalities and a more balanced roster.
Neo-Geo Cup '98: The Road to the Victory
1998
Sports (Soccer)SNK's arcade soccer simulation featuring exaggerated super shots, tactical team management, and the signature Neo-Geo high-energy gameplay.
Soccer Brawl
1992
SportsSoccer Brawl is a 1992 arcade sports-fighting hybrid by SNK that combines soccer rules with street brawling. Players control teams of 5 players who can punch, kick, and use special moves to steal the ball and score goals. Features exaggerated violence, super shots, and international teams with unique abilities.
Super Sidekicks
1992
Sports (Soccer)SNK's revolutionary arcade soccer game that introduced the 'Power Gauge' system for special shots. Known as 'Tokuten Ou' in Japan, it set new standards for fast-paced football action.
SUPER SIDEKICKS 3 - THE NEXT GLORY
1995
Sports (Soccer)The third installment in SNK's legendary soccer series delivers arcade-perfect gameplay with 48 national teams, enhanced AI, and revolutionary 'Dramatic Mode' that intensifies matches in final minutes. Features signature Neo Geo visuals and responsive controls perfect for competitive play.
Neo Turf Masters / Big Tournament Golf
1996
SportsA fast-paced arcade golf game featuring 4 international golfers competing across 6 championship courses. Known for its intuitive 3-button control system and vibrant pixel-art visuals.
Top Hunter – Roddy & Cathy
1994
PlatformerTop Hunter is a 1994 arcade action-platformer developed by SNK, featuring two playable bounty hunters - Roddy and Cathy - as they battle through vibrant alien worlds. The game combines side-scrolling beat 'em up combat with platforming elements and special cooperative attacks.
Ghost Pilots
1991
Shoot 'em upGhost Pilots is a 1991 vertically scrolling shooter arcade game by SNK for the Neo Geo MVS. Players control fighter planes through 7 stages with a unique two-player simultaneous mode. Known for its large sprites, detailed aircraft designs, and being one of SNK's first shooters for the Neo Geo system.
Over Top
1996
RacingOver Top is an arcade racing game developed and published by SNK in 1996. Featuring fast-paced gameplay and colorful graphics, it offers an exciting racing experience with various tracks and vehicles. The game is known for its unique drifting mechanics and arcade-style action.
Last Resort
1992
Shoot 'em upLast Resort is a 1992 arcade shooter game developed by SNK for the Neo Geo platform. A side-scrolling shoot 'em up with impressive visuals and intense action, it's considered one of the best in the genre on the Neo Geo system. The game features two-player cooperative gameplay and innovative weapon power-up systems.
Sonic the Hedgehog - Pocket Adventure
1999
PlatformerA portable Sonic masterpiece blending elements from Sonic 2 and Sonic 3, optimized for NeoGeo Pocket's clicky joystick. Features 6 zones with unique gimmicks and hidden Chaos Emeralds.
METAL SLUG - 1ST MISSION
1999
Run and GunThe portable debut of SNK's iconic run-and-gun series, featuring signature cartoon-style visuals and explosive action optimized for NeoGeo Pocket.
METAL SLUG - 2ND MISSION
2000
Run and GunThe enhanced NeoGeo Pocket sequel featuring new playable characters Eri Kasamoto and Fio Germi, with expanded weapon arsenals and mission structures.
SNK vs. Capcom: The Match of the Millennium
1999
FightingThe ultimate portable crossover fighting game featuring 24 characters from Fatal Fury, Street Fighter, King of Fighters and Darkstalkers. Unique tag-team and ratio systems optimized for NeoGeo Pocket's clicky stick.
The King of Fighters R-2
1999
FightingThe definitive NeoGeo Pocket KOF experience featuring refined gameplay from KOF '98. Includes 23 fighters across 9 teams with exclusive NGPC-exclusive characters and a revolutionary 'Rush Combo' system.