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Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves
Item: Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2025

GenresAction, Fighting, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableApr 24, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperSNK Corporation

Overview

After 26 years, FATAL FURY is back!

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves offers a mixed narrative experience. While some critics praise its extended story mode and character depth, many highlight significant flaws: shallow storytelling, lack of animated cutscenes, and uninspired character interactions. Overall, the consensus leans toward disappointment, as the game fails to meet the modern standards of engaging narrative expected by fans of the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

63%

Negative (0-49)

29%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves presents a mixed bag, with some positive highlights noted by several critics. Cultured Vultures appreciates the extended story mode, "Episodes of South Town," for its enjoyable writing and character relationships, while IGN Brasil acknowledges the cohesive narrative that effectively explores character motivations through its two main modes. TheXboxHub adds that the presentation is enhanced with comic book-style visuals and voiceovers, which contributes to a more engaging experience. Additionally, Metro GameCentral points out that the game features character motivations and goals, providing more narrative depth than typical fighting games, which is a commendable aspect for fans of the genre. However, the criticisms surrounding the story mode are significant and prevalent among reviewers. Many critics, including Jeuxvideo.com and Atomix, argue that the narrative lacks depth and engagement, describing it as anecdotal and failing to hook players effectively. The absence of animated cutscenes and voice acting is frequently mentioned, with reviews from GamingTrend and But Why Tho? highlighting how this diminishes the overall impact and makes the experience feel lifeless. Furthermore, critics like Shacknews and GAMES.CH express disappointment in the simplistic storytelling and the generic nature of the character interactions, suggesting that the narrative fails to meet modern standards expected in video game storytelling. In summary, while Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves offers some enjoyable elements in its story mode, the overall consensus among critics leans toward disappointment due to its lack of depth and engaging content. Many reviewers, such as Oyungezer and Gameblog.fr, feel that the narrative does not live up to the legacy of the franchise or the expectations of fans, resulting in a story that feels outdated and uninspired. The game seems to struggle in delivering a compelling narrative experience, with many critics suggesting that it falls short when compared to its competitors in the fighting game genre.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves impresses critics with its mix of classic and innovative gameplay, appealing to both newcomers and veterans. The introduction of systems like S.P.G. and REV enhances combat strategy, while the responsive mechanics elevate the fighting experience. However, some caution that the game's complexity may overwhelm casual players, as tutorials fall short in easing them into the intricate systems. Despite these concerns, the consensus is clear: the game offers a rich, engaging experience that blends accessibility with depth, solidifying its place in the fighting genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

83%

Mixed (50-79)

17%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who commend its blend of classic and innovative mechanics. Reviewers from Cultured Vultures and IGN Brasil highlight the game's ability to cater to both newcomers and veterans, with the introduction of systems like the S.P.G. and REV system adding depth and strategic elements to the combat. Critics such as Jeuxvideo.com and Meristation praise the game's responsiveness and fluidity, emphasizing how these mechanics enhance the overall fighting experience. The balance of accessibility and complexity is a recurring theme, with many critics noting that the simplified control scheme allows beginners to engage while still offering advanced techniques for skilled players. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics express concerns regarding the game's complexity, particularly for casual players. Atomix and GamingTrend point out that while the gameplay is rewarding for experienced individuals, it may overwhelm newcomers due to insufficient tutorials and the intricate nature of the mechanics. Additionally, critics like SpazioGames and TheSixthAxis mention that while the Smart controls are designed to assist casual players, the underlying complexity may still pose a challenge. This sentiment is echoed by several others who caution that the depth of the combat system could deter those unfamiliar with fighting games. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves delivers a robust and engaging gameplay experience that successfully marries traditional fighting game elements with modern innovations. Reviewers like GAMES.CH and Shacknews emphasize the game's strategic depth and variety of character play styles, reinforcing its appeal to a broad audience. While some concerns about accessibility remain, the majority of critics agree that the game stands out as a strong entry in the fighting genre, providing a satisfying experience for both competitive and casual players alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves impresses with its vibrant, stylized graphics and artistic direction, earning praise for character design and dynamic environments. Critics note its cel-shaded, comic book-inspired aesthetic as a highlight, enhancing the overall experience. However, it faces significant criticism for lacking detail and consistency, with some character models described as plastic and backgrounds falling flat. Though it shows improvement over previous SNK titles, the game struggles to match the visual fidelity of modern fighters, leaving room for enhancement in execution and cohesion.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

53%

Mixed (50-79)

44%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves have received a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its vibrant and stylized aesthetic. Reviewers like Cultured Vultures praise the "amazing graphics" that enhance the overall experience, while IGN Brasil notes that the visuals represent the "best in SNK's history," showcasing expressive characters and vibrant environments. Critics such as Jeuxvideo.com and Meristation commend the well-executed artistic direction, with the latter appreciating the stylized manganime aesthetic. The game has been recognized for its strong visual style, with TheXboxHub noting the dynamic backdrops and vibrant animations that contribute to an impressive presentation. Overall, the use of cel shading and a comic book-inspired art style has been positively highlighted by several reviewers, including COGconnected and ComicBook, who emphasize the colorful character designs and engaging visual experience. Despite the positives, there are notable criticisms regarding the visual design that cannot be overlooked. Many reviewers, including But Why Tho? and IGN Deutschland, argue that the graphics lack excitement and detail, with character models feeling somewhat plastic and backgrounds lacking vibrancy. Critics like PlayStation Universe and SpazioGames express disappointment in the game's failure to stand out compared to recent fighting titles, citing simplistic backgrounds and less detailed character models as significant drawbacks. Additionally, the inconsistency in visual quality across different stages has been pointed out by Noisy Pixel and Gamepressure, suggesting that while some elements shine, others fall short of modern standards. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves has made strides in visual design, particularly in its vibrant and stylized aesthetic, it still struggles to compete with top-tier fighting games in terms of detail and cohesion. Many reviewers appreciate the artistic direction and the improvements over previous SNK titles, as noted by JeuxActu and PSX Brasil, yet they also highlight the inconsistencies and areas where the game feels outdated, as mentioned by IGN France and TheSixthAxis. In summary, the game presents a visually appealing package that honors its roots, but it ultimately leaves room for improvement in execution and detail to fully match contemporary gaming standards.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

"Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves" boasts a praised soundtrack and Jukebox feature, with critics highlighting its nostalgic appeal and diverse music options. However, opinions are split; while some laud the audio's richness, others criticize the sound design as flat and the voice acting as inconsistent, dampening the overall experience. It's a mixed bag—great for some, but failing to live up to the series' legacy for others.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

44%

Mixed (50-79)

44%

Negative (0-49)

12%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of "Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves" have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many highlighting the game's diverse and engaging soundtrack. Jeuxvideo.com praised the music as "excellent," particularly noting the inclusion of a Jukebox feature that allows players to switch to tracks from previous games in the series. Similarly, Meristation emphasized the sound design as one of the game's best aspects, commending its diverse soundtrack and the ability to customize music for each stage. Critics like TheXboxHub and Shacknews echoed these sentiments, appreciating the robust soundtrack and the option to create custom playlists, which enhance the overall gaming experience. The nostalgic elements, particularly from past titles in the series, were also well-received, with Oyungezer noting the incorporation of various genres like jazz and blues, further enriching the audio landscape. However, not all reviews were as favorable, particularly concerning the sound design and voice acting. But Why Tho? criticized the sound design for being flat and uninspired, suggesting that it fails to match the excitement expected in a fighting game. Additionally, GamingTrend pointed out the inconsistency in voice acting, noting that the absence of voice in the story mode was jarring, while the Arcade Mode included narration, leading to confusion. Critics like Gamepressure also expressed disappointment, stating that although the soundtrack featured contributions from DJ Salvatore Ganacci, the music did not fit the game's atmosphere, detracting from the overall experience. This divergence in opinions highlights a significant concern regarding the quality and coherence of the audio elements. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a mixed sentiment towards the sound design and music of "Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves." While many reviewers, such as PSX Brasil and Noisy Pixel, praised the soundtrack and the nostalgic elements it brings to the game, others pointed out notable shortcomings in sound design and voice acting quality. The presence of a Jukebox feature was a common highlight, enhancing the experience for many players. However, criticisms regarding the monotony of some tracks and the inconsistency in voice acting suggest that while the game has strong elements, it may not fully meet the high expectations set by its predecessors. Thus, the audio experience, while enjoyable for some, remains a point of contention among critics.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves gets mixed reviews. Critics praise the dual Japanese and English options for adding character depth, particularly highlighting strong Japanese performances. However, others find the acting flat and lacking enthusiasm, with specific character portrayals criticized as poorly executed. Notably, the absence of voice acting in the Episodes of South Town mode leaves it feeling lifeless. Overall, while some aspects shine, significant flaws hold back universal acclaim.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

30%

Mixed (50-79)

30%

Negative (0-49)

40%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves has received a mix of praise from several critics, particularly for its availability in both Japanese and English, which adds a unique personality to the characters. Meristation highlights this dual-language feature, noting that it enriches the character dynamics, while Atomix specifically commends the Japanese performances as particularly strong. TheXboxHub also appreciates how the voiceovers complement the comic book-style storytelling, enhancing the depth of character narratives. Creative Bloq echoes this sentiment, stating that the voiced conversations enhance character interactions and lore, indicating that there is a foundation of quality in the voice acting that some critics have recognized. However, the voice acting has not been universally well-received. Critics like But Why Tho? describe the performances as flat and uninterested, suggesting that this lack of enthusiasm detracts from the overall excitement of the game. Finger Guns criticizes the portrayal of specific characters, such as Ronaldo, indicating that some performances feel out of place and poorly executed. Furthermore, Game8 and GamingTrend point out a significant flaw in the absence of voice acting in the Episodes of South Town mode, which they argue makes this part of the game feel lifeless and diminishes the storytelling experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed. While some, like Hobby Consolas and Atomix, appreciate the dual-language feature and the quality of the Japanese voice acting, others highlight inconsistencies and specific shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. PlayStation Universe notes that the voice work varies significantly between characters, with some sounding dated and reminiscent of older recordings. This divergence in opinions suggests that while there are commendable aspects to the voice acting in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, significant flaws exist that prevent it from being universally acclaimed.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves impresses with strong technical performance on Xbox Series X and PS5, highlighted by smooth online play and vibrant 4K visuals. Critics praise its rollback netcode and cross-platform features. However, concerns about server stability, slow menu navigation, and input reading issues mar the experience. While the game delivers solid online capabilities, improvements in user interface and loading times are essential to meet player expectations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

42%

Mixed (50-79)

58%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves has garnered a generally positive reception across both the Xbox Series X and PS5 platforms. Critics such as IGN Brasil and TheXboxHub noted that the online mode on Xbox Series X showed promising performance with a satisfactory rollback netcode, facilitating smooth online play. Similarly, on the PS5, reviewers like Atomix and JeuxActu highlighted that the game runs smoothly at 60 frames per second with vibrant 4K visuals, contributing to a solid gaming experience. The cross-platform play feature and rollback netcode were praised by multiple critics, including COGconnected and Shacknews, indicating a robust online infrastructure that enhances multiplayer interactions. However, there are notable criticisms for both platforms. On Xbox Series X, Cultured Vultures pointed out issues with server maintenance during testing, raising concerns about online stability, while Jeuxvideo.com criticized the slow and outdated menu interface. On the PS5, several critics echoed similar sentiments regarding the interface, with Gamepressure and Metro GameCentral mentioning slow navigation and long loading screens, which detract from the overall experience. Additionally, GamingBolt raised concerns about input reading issues that could affect gameplay, suggesting that while the online play might be solid, there are still underlying technical flaws that need addressing. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves presents a solid technical foundation, particularly in its online capabilities across both platforms. The rollback netcode and crossplay features are widely acknowledged as strengths, contributing to a generally stable online experience. However, issues with the user interface and occasional performance hiccups, especially in terms of loading times and responsiveness, indicate that there is room for improvement. Critics like Meristation and Finger Guns noted that while the game performs well overall, the user experience could be significantly enhanced by addressing the interface and loading issues, ensuring that the technical performance aligns with the high expectations set by its gameplay features.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves boasts an array of game modes and RPG elements that enhance replay value, attracting players with varied gameplay options. However, critics raise red flags about the shallow story mode and repetitive content, which could push casual gamers away. While die-hard fans might find enjoyment, the game’s lack of depth may limit its broader appeal, making it a mixed bag in terms of replayability.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

18%

Mixed (50-79)

73%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions surrounding the replay value of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves highlight several positive aspects that contribute to its overall appeal. Many critics, such as Meristation and TheXboxHub, emphasize the variety of game modes available, including online play and character leveling systems, which encourage players to return for more engagement. The inclusion of RPG elements and diverse character rosters further enhances replayability, as noted by reviewers like But Why Tho? and Creative Bloq. Additionally, the presence of modes like Arcade and the Episodes of South Town provides players with multiple avenues to explore, suggesting that there is substantial content to keep players invested over time. However, a significant number of reviewers also point out drawbacks that may hinder long-term engagement. Critics like Atomix and Gameblog.fr express concern over the limited depth of the story mode, suggesting that its lack of engaging content may lead casual players to abandon the game quickly. The sentiment is echoed by Gamepressure and SpazioGames, who note that while there are fun single-player modes, the overall experience lacks an addictive quality that could encourage repeated play. Furthermore, the repetitive nature of character stories and filler fights, as highlighted by Cultured Vultures and GamingTrend, detracts from the overall replay value for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed sentiment regarding the replay value of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves. While many reviewers appreciate the variety of modes and the engaging combat system, there are significant concerns about the depth of content, particularly in the story mode. Critics like IGN France and PlayStation Universe suggest that the game may appeal more to dedicated fans of the franchise rather than casual players, who might find the experience lacking in depth and challenge. Ultimately, while the game offers potential for replayability through its diverse features, the limitations in certain areas may restrict its appeal to a broader audience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

81%

Mixed (50-79)

19%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding "Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves" is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game for its successful revival of the classic franchise. Reviewers such as Cultured Vultures and IGN Brasil highlighted the effective blend of old and new mechanics, making the game appealing to both veteran players and newcomers. Critics like Meristation and TheXboxHub commended the game's ambitious approach, noting its vibrant visuals and engaging gameplay. Additionally, Atomix and Digital Chumps pointed out that the game offers adaptable controls suitable for both casual and competitive players, further enhancing its accessibility and enjoyment. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, including 4P.de and Gamepressure, pointed out shortcomings in the narrative depth and character choices, suggesting that the story mode feels underdeveloped. Critics like IGN France and Malditos Nerds expressed concerns that the game may alienate casual players due to its complexity and lack of engaging content. Furthermore, issues with the menu design and technical execution were noted by Gameblog.fr and Shacknews, indicating that while the gameplay is solid, the overall presentation could use improvement. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves" is a commendable return for the franchise, offering a strong gameplay experience and appealing visuals. Reviewers like Noisy Pixel and PSX Brasil emphasized that while the game excels in mechanics and aesthetics, it falls short in storytelling and may not fully capture the interest of a broader audience. Overall, the game is seen as a solid fighting title that successfully merges nostalgia with modern elements, although it has room for improvement in certain areas to enhance its appeal to all players.

TL;DR

"Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves" is a strong revival of the classic franchise, praised for its blend of old and new mechanics, vibrant visuals, and adaptable controls. However, criticisms arise regarding its underdeveloped narrative, complexity for casual players, and menu design issues. While it excels in gameplay and aesthetics, it could improve storytelling and accessibility to engage a wider audience. Overall, it's a solid title with room for growth.

MONSTER

Reviews

105 reviews found

Siliconera

PlayStation 5

Apr 29, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is a solid fighter with engaging visuals, deep gameplay mechanics, and plenty of content, making it a worthy addition to the series.

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TierraGamer

PlayStation 5

Apr 24, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is a solid experience that successfully blends nostalgia with modern gameplay elements, making it worth trying for both old fans and newcomers.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Apr 21, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves successfully revives the franchise with deep mechanics and stunning visuals, despite a repetitive campaign.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Apr 23, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves is an excellent fighting game that is bold, colorful, and engaging, appealing to fans of the genre.

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Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Apr 29, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fatal Fury: City of Wolves is praised for its innovative approach to the fighting genre, though the campaign could have been longer. Overall, it offers a balanced experience for both veterans and newcomers.

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JeuxActu

PlayStation 5

Apr 20, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is seen as a significant improvement for SNK, with excellent gameplay and visuals, though it falls short in storytelling.

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Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Apr 20, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is a strong return for the franchise, offering a balanced roster and refined gameplay, despite some presentation issues.

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PSX Brasil

PlayStation 5

Apr 20, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is considered a great game with solid content, deep gameplay mechanics, and good graphics and music, despite some issues with matchmaking and interface.

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IGN Brasil

Xbox Series X

Apr 23, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves successfully revives a classic franchise with excellent gameplay and a blend of tradition and modernity, despite some shortcomings in offline content compared to competitors.

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Hobby Consolas

PlayStation 5

Apr 20, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

While not the most innovative or visually stunning, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves delivers solid gameplay and a fun experience for fans of the genre.

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