Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves – A Fierce Comeback

After a 26-year hiatus, SNK has revived its iconic Fatal Fury series with the release of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves in April 2025. This long-awaited sequel not only respects the legacy of its predecessors but also introduces fresh mechanics and an exciting new roster of fighters, offering a thrilling experience for both veteran fans and newcomers.

The Fatal Fury franchise, which started in 1991, has been instrumental in shaping the fighting game genre. The last major release, Garou: Mark of the Wolves, debuted in 1999, leaving fans wondering if the series would ever make a return. City of the Wolves picks up where Garou left off, continuing the story of South Town and its legendary fighters, bringing new life to the world and characters that fans know and love.

One of the most exciting features of this installment is the introduction of the REV System. This dynamic mechanic gives players the ability to customize their combat style in real-time, offering options such as REV Arts, REV Accel, and REV Blows. The system encourages aggressive play but requires strategic management of the REV Meter to avoid overheating, which can leave players open to attacks. This innovation adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, making every fight feel fresh and intense.

The roster of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is packed with returning characters like Terry Bogard and Mai Shiranui, as well as newcomers such as Gato and Kevin Rian, each with their own unique fighting styles and backstories. Fans were also surprised by the inclusion of football legend Cristiano Ronaldo as a playable character. However, his addition has sparked some controversy, as many feel his presence feels more like a marketing gimmick due to limited animations and a lack of integration into the game's narrative.

To cater to a wider audience, the game offers two control schemes: the traditional Arcade Style for seasoned players and Smart Style for newcomers who prefer simplified commands. This accessibility ensures that everyone can jump into the action and enjoy the game. Additionally, City of the Wolves features cross-platform multiplayer, a detailed training mode, and a story-driven "Episode of South Town" mode, which delves into each character's personal journey, enriching the overall experience.

Visually, City of the Wolves uses a cel-shaded comic book style that makes the game look vibrant and dynamic. While the character models are highly detailed, some environmental backgrounds feel less polished, which can detract from the otherwise strong visual presentation. Nonetheless, the art direction successfully captures the spirit of the series while appealing to modern sensibilities.

Upon its release, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves garnered generally favorable reviews, with critics praising its blend of classic elements and modern gameplay innovations. The game has been hailed as a worthy addition to the Fatal Fury franchise, solidifying its place in the fighting game community.

Looking forward, SNK plans to expand the game's roster with downloadable content, including characters like Ken and Chun-Li from Capcom's Street Fighter series. This potential cross-company collaboration signals exciting future updates and events, keeping fans engaged for years to come.

In conclusion, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves successfully revives a beloved franchise, blending nostalgia with innovative gameplay. Whether you're a long-time fan of the series or new to the Fatal Fury universe, this title offers a dynamic and engaging fighting experience that is sure to please a wide range of players.