Kof XIV is here! With 3d models.

[The Big Daddy C-Master]

Has anybody played the Kof Demo yet?

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

SNK drops details on King of Fighters 14 at their EVO panel - several single player modes, robust online functionality, and more

King of Fighters 14 will see its release in just over a month, and what better place than EVO to let the players know what to expect?

Frionel was front and center at the SNK panel earlier today, and he live tweeted his experience to make sure that the community didn't miss out on any of the information that dropped this afternoon.

One of the main focuses of a new release should be to bring new players into the game, and keep them interested, and SNK appears to be doing just that. Several game modes will be avilable for players to enjoy on release, some of which unlock additional content for the gallery mode present to round out the single player experience. 

Online also looks to be an area where SNK is looking to improve when compared to previous KOF titles.

King of Fighters 14 will offer several ways for players to communicate with one another, a party play mode to give players an alternative way to enjoy the game together, and a replay function that not only allows players to break down matches on a frame by frame basis, but also allows them to watch matches as a group.

For those looking to give the game a shot before it releases, but can't make it to a major event, a demo will be available for download this Tuesday, the 19th.

Source: eventhubs

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

New King of Fighters 14 story trailer dropped at EVO finals, Antonov trailer also released

SNK certainly came prepared for EVO this year; a brand new King of Fighters 14 trailer premiered hot on the heels of the Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3 finals.

The trailer highlights the events of the new chapter of the King of Fighters story, and also what players can expect from downloading the demo.

A second trailer highlighting the new boss character, Antonov, surfaced alongside the story trailer on YouTube as well.

Source: eventhubs

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

Meitenkun Joins Shun’ei, and Tung Fu Rue in This New King of Fighters XIV Team Trailer

SNK and Atlus have an early present for us this week. Instead of having players wait until Thursday, they’ve dropped the latest team trailer today instead.

This trailer focuses on what may be considered the “hero” team for the King of Fighters XIV: Team China. Joining new protagonist Shun’ei and his master, Fatal Fury veteran Tung Fu Rue, is Meitenkun, who fights with an interestingly bizarre style based around tossing a pillow and generally acting sleepy.

Source: shoryuken & eventhubs

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

King of Fighters 14 demo currently playable on PlayStation 4; seven characters and three game modes available

PlayStation users can currently head over to the PlayStation Store to download the free King of Fighters 14 demo.

The demo features Versus, Training and Tutorial Modes along with seven of the game's 50 characters: Kyo Kusanagi, Iori Yagami, Mai Shiranui, Shun'Ei, Sylvie Paula Paula, King of Dinosaurs and Nelson.

Below you'll see a handful of screen shots, and then a full walk through of Tutorial Mode after the jump.

Source: eventhubs

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

Jul 20, 2016 2:37:23 GMT -5 The Big Daddy C-Master said:

Has anybody played the Kof Demo yet?

The only demo I've played was the EVO build where I played as Sylvie, Yuri, Angel, & Iroi.

[The Big Daddy C-Master]

If anybody tries it on console, let me know.

[WarMachineRhodey]

Jun 19, 2016 17:15:03 GMT -5 The Big Daddy C-Master said:

I'm not a fan of TOD mechanics in a more "serious" fighter, but it seems like they're still going this way.

I havent played the game yet myself but it seems they went back to a more kof 2002 style with the maxmode combos being shorter but you have to use alot of meter to get the good damage. Probably wont see much high damage combos until the last char on the team and that is if they have 5 full stocks.

[The Big Daddy C-Master]

Yea it seems like they've gone back to roots in some ways, it just seems like I see a lot of high damage stuff with even more ease than before. That said you're right it seems like it does cost a lot of meter for the time being but I have seen 80%+ combos even with Mai and none of it looks too impractical.

I guess I'll wait until I can get my hands on it or see more play to decide.

[WarMachineRhodey]

Jul 26, 2016 13:28:15 GMT -5 The Big Daddy C-Master said:

Yea it seems like they've gone back to roots in some ways, it just seems like I see a lot of high damage stuff with even more ease than before. That said you're right it seems like it does cost a lot of meter for the time being but I have seen 80%+ combos even with Mai and none of it looks too impractical.

I guess I'll wait until I can get my hands on it or see more play to decide.

Could you link the mai combo video? i want to check it out.

[The Big Daddy C-Master]

Here are a couple right now.

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

Our first proper look at Kensou in King of Fighters 14 comes in latest video - Team Psycho trailer, also includes Athena and Chin

Though we've already seen some of almost all characters in the game, thanks to the 48-character playable build available at EVO 2016, there's been no official footage of Kensou until now.



If you happen to be a Kensou supporter, or a fan of Psycho Soldiers in general, then this trailer is the one you've been waiting for.

















Source: eventhubs

[The Big Daddy C-Master]

Looking at the Grand Finals you can see that the damage off of random hits with meter is still really high. It actually seems higher this time around on short and simple confirms. In XIII you had to do longer stuff for the higher damage.

Go to 1:28 to see what I mean. He does it with Kensou to Kula (Xiao Hai).

I wonder how these mechanics will work on release though. I do notice that Max mode is currently shared with the super meter bar.

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

Ralf, Leona and Clark Report for Duty in the Team Ikari Trailer for King of Fighters XIV

Prepare for explosive punches, devastating chops, and back breakers a-plenty as Team Ikari makes quite the entrance in this new King of Fighter XIV trailer. Along with showing off Ralf, Leona and Clark’s Super Special and Climax Special Moves, this trailer shows the team fighting on a brand new aircraft carrier stage–complete with military personnel watching as two people knock seven bells out of each other.



The Navy must have done an appropriate risk assessment, as jets are taking off and engineers are doing maintenance as normal in the background of the fight; it must be the lunchtime entertainment for everyone on the ship. I have to say that Ralf’s Climax Special is especially vicious, as he magically shoots flak out of his fists then punches someone so hard that they explode.















Source: shoryuken & eventhubs

[The Big Daddy C-Master]

Leona looks pretty nice in this game so far.

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

SNK is Hosting a King of Fighters XIV “Dream Match” with EG|Justin Wong, HORI|Sako, Ogawa, and GO1



With SNK’s King of Fighters XIV almost upon us, one question on many people’s minds is if any top players from other series will be picking the game up. To help address this, SNK will be holding a special stream featuring some of these top players from other games.



On August 19, SNK will be hosting a special “Dream Match” event, featuring top players EG|Justin Wong, Ogawa, GO1, and HORI|Sako. Known for playing other titles–Ogawa mainly plays Guilty Gear, and the rest have been focusing on Street Fighter V–this gives us a chance to see how non-KOF players of this caliber will fare in the King of Fighters XIV.



Additionally, this isn’t the first time some of these players have switched games. GO1 was primarily known for BlazBlue before Street Fighter V, and Sako made a name for himself in Vampire Savior before becoming a Street Fighter player. Meanwhile, Justin Wong has been known to balance multiple games in the past, and has played King of Fighters ’98 in regional tournaments before.



SNK’s King of Fighters XIV Dream Match will take place on August 19 at 7:00 PM JST (6:00 AM Eastern, 3:00 AM Pacific). In the meantime, check out this trailer for the event.



Source: shoryuken

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

Meet Fighters from Out of This World in King of Fighters XIV’s Latest Team Trailer

The most interesting addition to the King of Fighters XIV has to be characters from SNK franchises that traditionally wouldn’t have fit into the series’s timeline; it’s three such characters that are the focus of the game’s latest team trailer.



Nakoruru from Samurai Shodown, Mui Mui from Dragon Gal, and Love Heart from Sky Love strut their stuff in this new trailer, forming Team Another World. While the first two can simply be explained as having time-traveled from the past, Love Heart is unique in that she seems to come from a totally different world–one straight out of a fantasy JRPG like Skies of Arcadia or Legend of Heroes VI. This is reflected in her swashbuckling fighting style where she wields an energy sword against her foes.

















Source: shoryuken & eventhubs

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

King of Fighters XIV’s Yasuyuki Oda Talks DLC Characters and More in GAME Watch Interview

SNK recently brought the upcoming King of Fighters XIV to the ChinaJoy expo in Shanghai; during the event, GAME Watch was able to catch up with director Yasuyuki Oda for an interview.

The interview itself was mostly focused on how the game was being received in China–an important market for King of Fighters. That said, they also touched on the game’s downloadable content: according to Oda, they have no plans for DLC characters at the moment. However, he did state that “anything could happen” later down the line. As part of this, Oda also addressed the topic of a crossover between KOF and Dead or Alive (DOA5 Last Round is getting Mai Shiranui as a guest character) stating that there are no plans to add characters from the latter into King of Fighters.

As for the game’s future, Oda stated that they plan to roll out one balance patch per year for King of Fighters XIV, in part because Oda will be focusing on another SNK game after KOFXIV has been released.

Source: shoryuken

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

King of Fighters 14 street date broken, players already getting copies; Alex Jebailey shares early online impressions

King of Fighters 14 is set for an official release on August 23rd. In spite of this, it looks as though some players are picking it up nearly two weeks early due to some retailers breaking the street date.



Among those who managed to snag a copy is CEO tournament organizer and prominent fighting game community member Alex Jebailey. He shared a photo of his physical copy on Twitter, which you can see below.




Jebailey has stated that he won't be spoiling anything for those who are waiting until release day to get a copy, and he has asked that others do the same.



He did, however, share some early impressions of King of Fighters 14's online experience.





It goes without saying that Alex's impressions are from a game that isn't in the hands of the masses yet, and because of this, the experience is subject to change.



Having said that, it is certainly encouraging to hear that King of Fighters 14's online is looking better than its predecessor. 

Source: eventhubs

[The Big Daddy C-Master]

Better than KoF XIII console online is a good thing as that was horrible. I wonder if it can surpass SFV online too, because that would make it more appealing.

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

King of Fighters XIV’s Demo: Aesthetics, Frame Rate, and Input Lag Analysis

King of Fighters XIV’s visual presentation has been a hot point of discussion since the game was announced: players all around the world have been a little wary of how the title will look when the game is finished, and now that we finally have the demo, we can see first hand how it shapes up.

DigitalFoundry, a YouTuber that focuses on game performance, broke down the graphics and frame rate provided by King of Fighters XIV’s new 3D engine.



Mike “Mike Z” Zaimont has also posted the results of an input lag test on the game, viewable here.

KOF14 PS4 Demo Input Lag Test
KOF14 PS4 demo input lag test.
Recorded at 120fps, Asus monitor, DualShock 4.
As scientific (or unscientific) as my lag tests always are. :^)

TL;DR

Averages 5.5 frames of lag at 60fps, 720p performs marginally worse than 1080p but that may be due to downscaling.

DATA:

1080p BUTTON:
10
11
10
11
11
10
9
11
Avg = 10.35 @120 = 5.18 frames at 60fps

1080p DIRECTION:
11
11
11
10
10
11
Avg = 10.66... @120 = 5.33... frames at 60fps

720p BUTTON:
11
12
11
12
12
12
11
11
Avg = 11.5 @120 = 5.75 frames at 60fps

720p DIRECTION:
11
11
12
12
12
12
12
12
Avg = 11.75 @120 = 5.875 frames at 60fps

Average of averages = 11.065 @120 = 5.5325 frames of lag at 60fps.

Videos, if you would like to check my work:
labzerogames.com/KOF14_lag_test_videos/KOF14_1080p_120fps.MOV
labzerogames.com/KOF14_lag_test_videos/KOF14_720p_120fps.MOV

Source: shoryuken & mikezsez.blogspot.com

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

King of Fighters XIV’s Official Site Updated with All Teams’ Stories

Hot on the heels of their most recent team trailer, SNK has made an update to their official King of Fighters XIV website. They’ve now added all the prologue stories for all 16 teams participating in the latest King of Fighters tournament. (Nyu: which I will be posting)

With this update, fans can now learn the back stories of all of these teams: this includes those of newcomers such as Team South America (qualifiers from a KOF spinoff tournament in Brazil) as well as the recently featured Another World Team (travelling across dimensions searching for an evil power). Additionally, they also clue us in to the state of the KOF world in general, and the timeline changes that happened after the last game.

Source: shoryuken

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

SNK Confirms Legacy Controller Support for King of Fighters XIV Via Day One Patch

Good news for those who have yet to shell out for a shiny new stick or pad: SNK has confirmed that King of Fighters XIV will receive a day one patch adding PS3 legacy controller support. This means that all you dedicated King of Fighters XIII players can continue to fight the good fight on your battle-hardened controllers, without the need to put down potentially hundreds of dollars for a brand new stick.

This patch will also apply to the King of Fighters XIV demo which is currently available on PSN, so those on the fence about this new edition of KOF can test out the input latency on their legacy controller before buying the full game. As with Street Fighter V, it is probable players will need to have a DualShock 4 connected to their PS4 in order for their legacy controller to be recognized, but that is not yet confirmed.

It remains to be seen whether legacy controllers will be allowed for KOF tournament play. Big tournaments like Evo have previously banned their usage due to the inconvenience of connecting and disconnecting for games like Street Fighter V, and discrepancies in input latancy, so this addition may only really benefit casual players and online warriors.

Source: shoryuken

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

Atlus USA Urges King of Fighters XIV Players with Early Copies to Not Share Spoilers

Reports of retailers breaking the August 23, 2016 street date for the release of The King of Fighters XIV have been popping up on Twitter; several users have posted pictures of their pre-embargo copy, while others express their frustration with having to continue waiting for their preorder copy to arrive on the legitimate street date. While KOFXIV’s publisher Atlus has no direct means to enforce retailers to honor the street date, they have released the following statement encouraging players to hold off spreading any spoilers about the game until the official release date has arrived.

View image on Twitter

/photo/1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

Based on further clarifications on Twitter, Atlus extends this request to streaming regular gameplay footage, as well as parts of the story mode.

Source: shoryuken

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

PROLOGUE STORY

The young man passed through the gates of his family's home, interrupting his journey of training as a warrior to respond to a call from his father, Saisyu Kusanagi. In the parlor, he found two old friends he had not seen for some time: Benimaru Nikaido and Goro Daimon. Normally, these three would never gather at the Kusanagi home at all once, but this time, their presence was requested by Saisyu.

"You're home... I'm sorry to have to call you out here. Look." In Saisyu's hand was a familiar envelope. "This... It's a KOF invitation. Why...?" "And so, I have a request for all of you." "This had better not be another huge pain in my side, old man." "What? It's just like what you'd use for training a beginner... You've probably heard of Master Tung. He's bringing new students to the tournament this time, but I hear they're really bad at holding back. We just want you to help show them the way, is all. It would be dangerous for normal martial artists, but you guys should be fine."

Saisyu had originally intended to meet each of them personally and check to see if their strength declined before making this request. However, at a glance, he was convinced that he had worried for nothing.

"Yup, I knew this would be a huge pain. Anyway, you're probably getting ahead of yourself. We don't even know if they'll win their way up the brackets." "I'm sure they will, since the master is with them. I though you'd be happy to go a few rounds, Kyo." Benimaru had been enjoying watching the father and son argue, but took his turn to speak after Kyo sucked his teeth at Saisyu, who had begun drinking tea. "Actually, the only thing that really matters is whether or not one of these beginners is a beautiful young lady." "Mm-hmm. It's important to show the way for young ones with a long road ahead of them." Daimon was clearly in a mood to agree and attracted to the idea of 'educating.' However, before he could encounter any backlash for that sentiment, a familiar voice rang out from the doorway.

"Mr. Kusanagi! Everybody!! I haven't seen you all in ages. I'd heard that you had all come home, so I hurried right over!" Shingo Yabuki hurried noisily down the hall then peeked into the room, still looking flushed. "Haven't seen you in a while, Shingo. The same as ever, huh?" "Heheh. I'm not the same guy you knew before. Here, check out the new special move I came up with after training non-stop for the last six months. With this, winning KOF isn't a dream anymore!" Daimon responded before Kyo, moved by the words of a friendly junior martial artist making a surprise visit. "Well, your confidence is impressive. I'll fight a round with you." Narrowing his eyes even further with happiness, he slid into his geta sandals and walked out onto the lawn. "Here I come, Daimon!" Everyone turned to watch as Daimon and Shingo gave their battle cries and took their stances. Then Kyo heard Saisyu's voice, uncharacteristically serious, coming from behind him.

"Listen, Kyo. I have something to tell you." "What is it, old man?" "When I spoke with Master Tung... I had a premonition. I have a feeling that something bad is going to happen at this KOF. I'm not sure what, but I just feel like something's not right... Be ready." "What the...? You're being really vague. Well, whatever happens, I'll find a way to handle it."

At that moment, Shingo let out an impassioned roar, as if to drown out their conversation.

"YAAAAAAaaa...ah? H-Huh? There's no flame... Hold on a second, Daimon. A-Aaaagh!" While he had carried out the technique enthusiastically, it was apparently incomplete. As Shingo panicked because the flames had failed to appear, and he also took a hit from Daimon's counter, which left him sprawled on the ground.

"This is what I get for talking big..." "Indeed, you need more training. At this level, winning the KOF is more of a dream within a dream." On hearing Daimon's words, Benimaru turned to Kyo suddenly, like he'd just been reminded of something. "Hey, Kyo... Speaking of winning, apparently a new 'first generation' KOF champion appeared while we were away." "Huh? A champion... And a first-generation one... What does that mean?" "So you hadn't heard after all. I don't know the details, but apparently he's incredibly rich. He also happens to be the organizer this time... So what will you do about it, Kyo?" "You know what I'll do. This self-titled champion and newbie training. I'll take care of all of it at once!"

It didn't matter how big or small, bad things usually happened at KOF tournaments. Kyo had experienced these troubles time and again, making his confidence unshakable as the sun blazed brilliantly behind him.









KYO KUSANAGI

Kyo Kusanagi is the legitimate heir of the ancestral arts of the Kusanagi clan. Despite his seemingly rude and arrogant demeanor, he has innate gifts for fighting, and can reduce any of his opponents into ashes via his pyrotechnic skills. Iori Yagami is his "eternal enemy".









BENIMARU NIKAIDO

Born of American and Japanese parents, Benimaru is a young son of a multi-millionaire family. This genius fighter specializes in shooting and electricity-based techniques. Benimaru is also Kyo's best friend and friendly rival.









GORO DAIMON

Former gold medalist in judo at the Olympic Games, Goro decided one day to improve his discipline by adding new techniques such as "tremendous earthquakes". He later joined Kyo and Benimaru to participate in the KOF Tournament. Goro always seems to have a very serious expression, but he is a hard-worker.

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

PROLOGUE STORY

Complete silence. The full moon was a pronounced reddish hue, bathing the row of gravestones in the color of fresh blood. A cigarette lay slanted and burnt to ashes atop a small grave in an quiet area of the public cemetery. A man with crimson hair stood staring at the remains of the cigarette, lost in thought.

"Hmph... Was that supposed to be incense?"

He muttered to himself, before turning his gaze to the elm trees nearby. As he turned away, a murder of crows resting among the trees took flight in unison. Something was watching him from the shadows the trees cast in the moonlight. How long had they been there?

"It's been a while, Iori Yagami. Did you have pleasant nightmares?" A woman's voice said in strangely seductive tones. He could definitely sense their presence, but no forms were visible. "What business brings half-dead things like you back from hell?" "Oh, that attitude doesn't suit you. You missed me, so I came to see you. Aren't you happy?" Spoke another woman's voice, different from the one moments before. "Ridiculous... Get lost."

Violet flames wreathed Iori's right hand as he spoke and the air around it began to waver. He moved his arm in a slashing motion, as though swatting an insect, and the flames raced toward the presences. When they reached the source of the presence, his flames suddenly scattered then vanished.

"Tehehe... What a rough welcome. The real reason we're here... Well, that's something you're already dimly aware of."

In the area beyond where the violet flames had died stood two beautiful women. Mature and Vice. Two of Iori's former teammates, and also two people he had slain himself.

Vice tossed an envelope to him. A familiar envelope he didn't even need to check the contents of... A KOF invitation.

"Hehehe... This KOF is just the beginning of the nightmare. Drawn by the scent of life, the dead are gathering. And I can hear their voices perfectly, Yagami! ...You could have awakened from your nightmares if you had just given up your power and chosen to live as a human back then!" Vice's words rang out, disturbing the stillness of the evening.

"Though your dearest wish might be granted in the not-so-distant future. That is... If you don't die before then, Yagami." Iori snorted with apparent disinterest at Mature's prophetic words.

"Hmph... There's no way I'll die before I beat him." "Well then, this should be fun... We'll be observing your restored powers. Don't disappoint us." "Oh, really... If you're that interested, I can show you right now. The cost will be your souls, though."

Iori's eyes hardened, and a sinister energy began to fill the air around him.

"Tehehe... I'll pass. It's still too early for me to go back to hell." "Hahaha... Bye, Yagami... See you again at the gateway to your nightmares!"

Saying this, the two women vanished into the darkness again. Iori turned on his heel and began walking, letting the moonlight wash over his back. Light from a glaring red moon that seemed to be calling for blood.

"...There's no way to awaken from these nightmares than by killing him with my own hands."

All he sought was to fight the man known as "Kyo Kusanagi." That was the only way for him to prove that he was still alive.









IORI YAGAMI

Iori is the last descendant of the Yagami clan, an ancient family linked to the Three Sacred Treasures. Iori fights the enemies on his way via his sharp claws and purple flames. Since a blood pact concluded with Orochi, he sometimes enters a state of "Riot of the Blood" madness. The Kusanagi and Yagami clans have been fighting each other for more than 660 years.







MATURE

Mature was once one of the 8 members of the "Hakkeshu" brotherhood, who were plotting for the resurrection of the "Orochi" divinity. Mature fights with fluid and very quick movements, and lacerates her enemies with the sharp edge of her hands. In contrast to Vice, Mature is a cold-hearted realist.







VICE

Vice was once one of the eight members of the Orochi clan, which lurked in the shadows in order to revive the eponymous divinity. Despite her frail stature, the very violent and cruel Vice possesses superhuman strength and excels in grappling moves, body slams, and shoulder charges. She shows interest in Iori whose Orochi blood flows in his veins.

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

PROLOGUE STORY

It was a free-for-all battle between fighters who, for one reason or another, could not appear in official bouts, and held at one of the world's premier underground arenas. The audience's gaze was fixed on two women: one in a unique outfit featuring large eyeballs, and another that soared through the air while changing masks faster than the eyes could see.

"They're pretty strong, eh?"

Antonov murmured, smiling with satisfaction as he watched the fights through a one-way mirror.

"That's Sylvie, formerly of NESTS, who controls electromagnetic forces, and Mian, a master of Sichuan Bushinryu. 　Both have a win rate of over 90% in this underground tournament. And they're quite popular."

Antonov's assistant, associate director Yakov, swiftly pulled up information on the fighters on a tablet.

"Ahhh, I see, I see. Alright Yakov, I'm going to scout them as select members of the official invitational team!" "Yes, sir— Wait, what!? So what will you do with the fighters that were recommended by our sponsors?" "Naturally, I'll be turning them down. Fighters known only for their looks aren't nearly strong enough to show off the power of Antonov, the first-generation KOF champion." "Ahh... Yes sir, if you say so. Well then, I'll go call them over."

Told that they had a business proposition from a very wealthy patron, Sylvie and Mian came to Antonov's room. Yakov then explained the nature of the contract.

"KOF, huh... I don't like being on TV. But I'll think about it, depending on the size of the check." "Paula's totally, completely, without-a-doubt okay with this! You're fine with Paula, right?" "Excellent. Yakov, give them the contracts." "Yes, boss. These are the contracts. Please, look them over." "Wow, that's an impressive amount. Even my eyeballs are overwhelmed! ...Are there any penalties?" "No, no, there's no need to worry. It's simply honest pay for a fight." "With this much money... And there's a bonus for getting the venue worked up. It's a deal. Look forward to working with you, President Antonov." "That's great. Ehehe, Paula's glad to work with you too, boss."

Having added them to his select, invitational team, Antonov lectured Yakov in a satisfied voice as he watched the next fight.

"Those two are tough! There's no doubt they'll spice up the tournament. And now that we've got members for the Official Team that can show off my strength, we can use anybody for the final member. Go get me some guy off the street." "Well, for the final member, we could try assigning one of the fighters recommended by our sponsors as a base..." "That won't be necessary. If you're looking for your final member to invite onto the team, I'm here. So hire me already, you sorry sack of shit."

When the two men turned to find the source of the unexpected voice, they saw a hooded man standing in the corner of the room.

"Hey, kid, language! Anyway, when did you get here? I didn't notice you at all." "Just tell me whether you'll hire me or not. You know speed is everything in business negotiations, right?" "B-Boss... What do you think?" "Hmm. I like your abrasive style! Yakov, give him a contract too." "Huh? Are you sure, boss?" "Yeah. It's not just anyone who can hide his presence from me. He's bound to be tough. What's your name?" "Kukri. So, we have a deal. No need to explain the contract or negotiate; that's a waste of time. If there's a problem, contact me here."

Saying this, Kukri took the contract and vanished before their eyes, leaving behind traces of sand and a note with contact information written on it.

Buzzzz... Buzzzz... "It's me. I've got all of the KOF participants. Standby for a report."







SYLVIE PAULA PAULA

One of the last remnants of NESTS, the beautiful young girl Sylvie was considered useless by the secret society until the day she demonstrated the extent of her electromagnetic powers. After the collapse of NESTS, she was scouted by the KOF tournament organizer during an underground fighting event.







KUKRI

Mysterious fighter hiding his face under a hood, and working in the shadows for a secret society, Kukri can bury anyone who challenges him with his sand-based techniques.







MIAN

Mian is a woman fighter who battles using moves from the traditional Chinese dancing art of the "Sichuanese Opera". She evolves in underground tournaments along with Sylvie. Despite her high dancing skills, Mian is an extremely shy person, and doesn't drop her mask often.

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

PROLOGUE STORY

A mountain range of precipitous ridges was cloaked in deep mists today as well, with only the peaks protruding into the open air. The charred remnants of a dojo towered atop one of the peaks, blending into the natural grandeur around it. From within, the passionate battle cries and sounds of immense destruction produced by a boy echoed outwards.

"Whew... I've finally gotten used to this power." "Yeah. You used to destroy the dojo every time you got serious before. Stopping you was a lot of work with just the master and me back then, Shun." "When are you talking about? That was back when I was a little kid." "Exactly, that's why I mentioned how much you've grown." "Oh... Yes, I've definitely grown compared to then. But it's not good enough. I've got to be able to fully control it..." "Hahaha... You're training well. Rushing is not an option. With how hard you're working, it will pay off in time." "In time is too late, Grandpa. I don't want to hurt anyone anymore. That's why I decided to face my power, and that's why I've been training so hard up until now." "Shun..."

A shadow passed over the two boys' expressions, as though the fog was darkening their feelings. Unable to deny what he saw, Tung rested his chin on his hand and thought for a moment before making a suggestion.

"Well, this might be a drastic measure, but... I've got an idea." "Really!? Tell me, Grandpa! I'll do whatever it takes, no matter how difficult!!" "Mm-hmm. Well, it's... Participating in KOF." "KOF?" "Haven't you heard of it, Shun? It's a world-class martial arts tournament. The winning team receives a large cash reward and the highest honor a martial artist can achieve." "Even I know that much, Meiten. I just wonder what's the point in participating in a martial arts tournament." "True. If it were just about fighting great martial artists, the master would do it on his own." "Besides, if I sign up, I could seriously hurt opponents since I can't hold back."

Shun'ei understood the dangers and unpredictability of his own power. And because of this, even with the degree of control he'd learned to exercise up until now, he was hesitant and uncertain regarding the use of his power against other people. Then Tung spoke, seemingly having seen through Shun'ei's uncertainty and aiming to push him into action.

"Don't underestimate first-class martial artists, foolish boy. You probably couldn't even hurt them at your current level." "Whoa. There are people that tough out there?" "Mm-hmm. And I've heard that my students and Kyo Kusanagi will be there, too." "Kyo... Kusanagi?" "Yes, each generation of the Kusanagi clan has the power of purification. Kyo Kusanagi is the heir to that power, and has sealed immense powers away in the past. And there are other participants whose circumstances are similar to yours. You might learn something in these fights." "I see... That's why you brought up participating in KOF. But I think Shun could easily wipe the floor with this Kusanagi guy." "No, you mustn't let your guard down, Meiten. Moreover, as this old man's students, I can't let you embarrass yourselves in front of your seniors. So it's time for training, Meiten!" "Huh!? I was just thinking I'd take a nap..." "You just woke up a few minutes ago. Come on, it's you against me!" "H-Hey, wait!"

Tung once again found himself lost in thought, listening to the clamor of the boys who would be his last students. Lately, he had sensed something; while faint, it reminded him of Shun'ei's energy. When the force of yang increases, the force of yin does as well. And if yang grows stronger still... For better or worse, he prayed for the sun's light to disperse the fog.







SHUN'EI

Shun'ei is a manipulator of illusions. Due to his mysterious powers, he was abandoned at a young age by his parents and was raised as a disciple of Tung Fu Rue. Through Hakkyokuseiken training, he learned to control his hidden powers. As the last disciple of Tung, he has set out to challenge other fighters from all over the world with his close friend Meitenkun.









TUNG FU RUE

Tung Fu Rue is the founder of Hakkyokuseiken, which allows the user to freely manipulate "chi". Despite being a small, old man, he attacks through a powerful, muscular aura. He is not only the master of Shun'ei and Meitenkun, but has trained many fighters throughout his years. Even now he continues his lifetime of service.







MEITENKUN

Meitenkun is a sleepy young fighter who is always seen holding a pillow. Along with Shun'ei, he strove to train under the legendary Master Tung Fu Rue. His fighting style was named Hakkyokuminminken (Eight Extremities Sleepy Fist) by Tung. He conceals enough energy to earn himself the title of Tung's "secret weapon".

[Nyu Nozomi Hyuga]

PROLOGUE STORY

A certain prison facility was conducting registration procedures for new inmates.

"Ah, just when we think we're free of Kim, we get caught by the law." "Seriously, Choi, it's your fault for getting wild at that bar while you were drunk." "You shouldn't talk, Chang. You're the one who got worked up and broke their tables and walls, buddy boy."

When a guard brought them to their cell block on the bottom floor, they were surrounded by an unnatural aura. The prisoners there were abnormally energetic, and all seemed to be engaged in creating some sort of banner for an unclear purpose.

"They're strangely lively. It's kind of creepy..." "AHAHAHA."

A laugh loud enough to echo through the cell block came from behind them, and the two turned to find the source of the sudden noise. There, they saw a man was approaching them, his blue beard that reached to his waist swinging like a pendulum.

"So you have found me at last... A captive of the curvature of space-time, a potato in a tailspin."

He stared at them with deep-set, unblinking eyes open so wide as to be unsettling. And judging by his unique face-paint, Choi quickly realized just who this man was.

"I-I know this guy! He's Xanadu, the most evil of villains! His list of criminal deeds is long and he's known internationally for pulling off serious felonies in every country he visits!" "Wow, that's crazy evil! I'm a little intimidated. What do you say, Choi? Should we bring the hammer of justice down on him?" "...You've become quite the justice fighter, buddy boy."

Xanadu moved his face closer to the pair and stared each one in the eyes, still unblinking, before breaking into a smirk.

"It trembles, it trembles!" "Eeep!" "Cast aside concepts! Return to nothingness and create!"

Xanadu took out an invitation to a fighting tournament that Chang and Choi were well-acquainted with. Anyone is allowed to participate in the KOF tournament. Vicious criminals are no exception.

"The path is already open. The coupling of time and space! Namely, freedom! Only in acceptance does hope exist. Now, separate your concepts!" "Our hopes... F-Freedom! Absolute power! And wealth! Happiness in old age! Mr. Xanadu, please, lead us..." "You're the only one who can change us after being converted to justice, Mr. Xanadu!" "You must scatter. Split everything and then merge! Wahahahahaha!"

Xanadu's laughter echoed through the cell block. All of the prisoners let out a roar together, as if inspired by the sound.

"Wow! It's amazing, I really want to go on a wild rampage! I've never seen charisma like this! If we stick with him, we'll be on the fast track to villainy!" "Looks like it's finally our lucky day, buddy boy." "All logic springs from a tremble. You two, heighten your entropy!"

No one knew whether Chang and Choi were departing on a spectacular trail of evil, or on a road that would lead them directly to the hammer of justice.







XANADU

This legendary criminal is currently imprisoned in an underground jail. He has ideas and concepts hard to understand for the average person. Xanadu is considered as the "King of the Underground" by the other prisoners. Will he bring back Chang and Choi to their dark days again?









CHANG KOEHAN

Once a feared and violent criminal, the two-meter-and-more-tall Chang battles with an enormous iron ball he spins like a tennis ball. Chang trained hard in the past in tae kwon do while under Kim's "Rehabilitation Project", but he teams up now with Xanadu.









CHOI BOUNGE

Butcher during the day, Choi was once feared as a ripper during the night. Choi gives a hard time to his opponents thanks his super speed and claw attacks. One day, he chanced to have stalked on Kim during one of his nightly walks, and was then forced to join his "Rehabilitation Project". His rehabilitation program over, Choi teams up now with Xanadu.

[The Big Daddy C-Master]

Liking that look for Mature.