Neo Geo · 2002
The King of Fighters 2002
The King of Fighters 2002 returns to a straightforward 3-on-3 team battle format and gathers a large roster of SNK fighters on the Neo Geo home system.
- Publisher
- Eolith
- Format
- Cartridge
- Genre
- fighting game
- Released
- 2002
01
Overview
Eolith developed this ninth mainline entry as the second King of Fighters title produced by the Korean studio. It drops the four-person Striker Match mechanic from the previous NESTS-era games and revamps the Power Gauge system to work more like the earlier KOF '97. The roster brings together characters from multiple SNK franchises, including a Kyo Kusanagi variant known as Kusanagi who fights with the series' original moveset.
02
Why it matters
Many players and critics viewed the return to the classic team structure as a welcome correction after the NESTS trilogy. The game also stands as a notable point in the series because it was produced without direct involvement from the original SNK.
03
The physical edition
A typical complete Neo Geo AES copy includes the game cartridge in a plastic snap case, a full-color instruction manual, and an insert or poster. Regional editions can differ in box style, manual language, and included extras, so inspect the actual contents rather than assuming every package is the same.
04
Playing it today
The game is region free on most Neo Geo AES and AES+ hardware and can also be played through well-supported emulators. It is a two-player local title, so bring a friend or practice solo modes to learn the roster.