The King of Fighters '96 Online

About The King of Fighters '96

The King of Fighters '96 is the game that turned KOF into the fast, aggressive fighter people know today. SNK rebuilt the engine: the slow dodge became a quick roll, you can run instead of walking, and short hops – tapping up for a small jump – became the core of KOF offense. Many characters were redrawn and got new moves.

The story continues the Orochi saga. Chizuru Kagura, keeper of the seal, hosts the tournament to find fighters who can stand against Orochi. Leona Heidern takes her adoptive father's place on the Ikari team, the boss team of Geese Howard, Wolfgang Krauser and Mr. Big makes an appearance, and Iori is teamed up with the mysterious Mature and Vice. The final boss, Goenitz, controls the wind and is one of the toughest bosses in the series.

How it plays

KOF '96 is fast and offensive. Running, short hops and rolls let you close the distance quickly, and combos are easier to link than in '94 and '95. The power gauge still charges by holding A + B + C.

Best characters

• Leona – excellent charge moves and strong defense.
• Iori and Kyo – aggressive rushdown with great combos.
• Chizuru – tricky, with a reflecting move and fast specials.

Tips

• Short-hop attacks are hard to anti-air – use them to start pressure.
• Roll (A + B) through fireballs to get right next to the opponent.
• Against Goenitz, stay patient: his wind attacks punish wild jumps.

Next in the Orochi saga: KOF '97. Or browse every game on the King of Fighters hub.