An in-depth look at the SNES port of the classic Neo-Geo fighting game, Art of Fighting, reveals a game that shines in graphics and story but falls short in gameplay ease.
Introduction to Art of Fighting
Art of Fighting, a prominent title from the SNK franchise, is known for its innovative zoom effect, which dynamically adjusts the camera view as fighters move closer or farther apart. Originally developed for the Neo-Geo Advanced Entertainment System, its transition to the SNES is noteworthy, especially for those like me, who cherish the Neo-Geo’s games and enjoy comparing their ports across different platforms.
Art of Fighting: Where graphics and story meet the challenge of combat.
Gameplay: A Tough Battle Awaits
One of the major hurdles in Art of Fighting on SNES is its challenging gameplay. The difficulty doesn’t just stem from tough opponents; players often struggle with executing special moves, which are nearly impossible to perform consistently. This issue significantly impacts the overall experience, transforming what could be an enjoyable game into a source of frustration.
The Storyline: More Than Punches and Kicks
The game shines in its storytelling, offering a compelling narrative that stands out from typical fighting game plots. Players follow Ryo Sakazaki and his friend Robert Garcia on a mission to rescue Ryo’s sister from the clutches of villains in South Town. The story unfolds beautifully, adding depth to the fighting sequences.
Graphics and Sound: A Visual and Auditory Feast
The SNES version of Art of Fighting boasts graphics that closely resemble its arcade counterpart, including large, colorful characters and detailed backgrounds. The animation quality is commendable, demonstrating the SNES’s capability to handle Neo-Geo’s visual feats. While the sound quality doesn’t quite stand out, it remains faithful to the arcade experience, with effective sound effects enhancing the overall atmosphere.
Replayability: Hindered by Gameplay Mechanics
The game’s replay value suffers significantly due to the difficulty in executing moves. While it features additional modes like Versus and Story Mode, the cumbersome gameplay mechanics discourage repeated playthroughs, making it less likely for players to return to the game.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Art of Fighting on SNES impresses with its faithful adaptation of graphics and sound from the arcade version. However, the challenge in executing special moves overshadows these positives, leading to a gameplay experience that feels frustrating and, at times, broken. For those seeking a visually striking game with a rich storyline but are willing to overlook gameplay difficulties, Art of Fighting may still hold some appeal. But for most players, especially those focused on fluid and responsive controls, it might be best to steer clear.
Play Art of Fighting online Anywhere
Despite its challenges, Art of Fighting is accessible for all, playable on the web, mobile devices, and tablets, allowing gamers to experience its unique blend of story and combat on their preferred platform.