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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: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAction, Fighting, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableApr 24, 2025

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4

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 has a mixed reception; some praise its character depth and nostalgic ties, but many critics slam the story mode for being simplistic and outdated. The lack of voice acting, animations, and engaging content leads to a disappointing experience that fails to honor the franchise's legacy.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

13%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

21%

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

The overall reception of the story in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves presents a mixed bag of opinions, with some critics acknowledging certain positive aspects. For instance, IGN Brasil and Metro GameCentral highlight the game’s cohesive story and character motivations, suggesting that it offers more narrative depth than typical fighting games. Critics like Digital Chumps and GamingBolt appreciate the return to familiar characters and the unique storylines, such as Rock Howard's quest, which adds a layer of engagement for fans of the franchise. Additionally, Cultured Vultures notes that character relationships are fleshed out, providing a sense of continuity and nostalgia for long-time players. However, the majority of critics are critical of the story mode, particularly the Episodes of South Town. Many reviews, including those from IGN France and GamingTrend, emphasize the lack of depth and engaging content, describing the narrative as simplistic and lifeless. Critics like JeuxActu and Malditos Nerds point out that the execution feels outdated, with text dialogues and fixed images reminiscent of 90s designs. The absence of voice acting and animations, as noted by GamingTrend and Push Square, further detracts from the overall experience, making it seem cheap and unpolished. The repetitive nature of missions and generic NPCs, highlighted by Shacknews and GameSpot, also contributes to the perception that the story fails to captivate players. In summary, while Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves attempts to weave character-driven narratives into its gameplay, the consensus among critics leans towards disappointment regarding the story mode's execution. The lack of modern storytelling techniques and engaging presentation has left many feeling that the game does not live up to the legacy of its predecessors. Critics like Oyungezer and SpazioGames encapsulate the general sentiment that despite some intriguing character arcs, the overall narrative experience is hindered by its simplistic approach and lack of depth, ultimately failing to resonate with players as intended.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves impresses with innovative mechanics like the REV system and Strategic Power Gauge, offering deep, responsive combat that appeals to both veterans and new players. However, its complexity and lack of comprehensive tutorials may alienate beginners, alongside issues with AI and opponent variety. Critics praise its strategic depth and diverse character roster, positioning it as a standout in the fighting game genre, despite accessibility concerns for less experienced gamers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (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 predominantly positive reception from critics, who highlight the introduction of innovative mechanics such as the REV system and the Strategic Power Gauge (S.P.G.). Reviewers like GamingTrend and Push Square commend the game for its tactical depth, encouraging players to engage in strategic decision-making between offense and defense. The combat system is praised for its responsiveness and fluidity, with critics like Meristation and GAMES.CH noting that it successfully combines classic fighting game elements with modern mechanics, making it enjoyable for both newcomers and veterans alike. Additionally, the diverse roster of characters and their unique play styles contribute to an engaging experience, as pointed out by ComicBook and But Why Tho?, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the game. However, several critics have pointed out notable drawbacks that could hinder the experience for some players. A common concern is the complexity of the gameplay mechanics, which may not be beginner-friendly. Reviewers such as Gamer.no and Impulsegamer emphasize that while the fighting mechanics are solid, the lack of a comprehensive tutorial and modern control options can make it challenging for new players to fully grasp the game. Critics like Metro GameCentral and TheSixthAxis echo this sentiment, suggesting that the technical nature of the combat system may alienate casual players, despite the presence of simplified control schemes. Furthermore, issues with AI input reading and a perceived lack of variety in opponents, as mentioned by GamingBolt, detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves offers a robust and engaging gameplay experience, with a strong emphasis on strategic depth and character diversity. While the game excels in providing a rewarding combat system that appeals to skilled players, it also poses challenges for newcomers due to its complexity and limited tutorial support. Critics like IGN Brasil and GameSpot encapsulate this duality, praising the gameplay as a peak in SNK's creativity while acknowledging the learning curve involved. Ultimately, the game stands out for its innovative mechanics and engaging combat, making it a worthy addition to the fighting game genre, albeit with some reservations regarding accessibility for less experienced players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves impresses with its vibrant, American-comic-style visuals and dynamic animations, earning praise as a significant improvement for SNK. However, critics note it lacks the polish and detail of top-tier competitors, with some backgrounds and character models feeling underwhelming. While it successfully modernizes the franchise, there's still room for improvement to truly compete in the fighting game arena.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (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 garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting a vibrant and striking aesthetic that resonates with fans of the genre. Many reviewers, such as GameSpot and IGN Brasil, praised the game's American-comic-themed art design and vibrant colors, noting that it enhances the overall gameplay experience. Critics like Game8 and Gamer.no also acknowledged the significant visual improvements over previous SNK titles, with some even calling it the best-looking 3D fighting game from the studio. The cel-shaded design has been particularly well-received, with critics from Creative Bloq and COGconnected emphasizing how it honors the franchise’s legacy while providing a modern touch. The dynamic animations and expressive character designs were also highlighted as strong points, contributing to an engaging visual experience. However, despite the praise, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's graphics. Many reviewers pointed out that while the visual style is appealing, it often lacks the polish and detail found in competing titles. For instance, GameCritics and Meristation noted that the graphics, while stylized, do not reach the visual opulence of other franchises, and some backgrounds were described as lacking vibrancy and polish. Critics like PlayStation Universe and Gamer.no echoed these sentiments, stating that character models and designs do not stand out compared to recent fighting games, and the overall presentation sometimes feels underwhelming. Additionally, inconsistencies in quality across different maps and animations were highlighted by Gamepressure and TheSixthAxis, indicating that while some elements shine, others fall short. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves offers a visually appealing experience that successfully blends modern aesthetics with the franchise's heritage. While there are commendable aspects such as vibrant colors and a unique comic-inspired art style, many critics agree that the game does not fully compete with top-tier fighting games in terms of detail and polish. Reviewers like MeuPlayStation and Shacknews recognized the game's strengths but also noted the areas where it could improve to elevate its visual presentation further. Ultimately, while the game marks a significant step forward for SNK, it still has room to grow to meet the high standards set by its competitors.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves impresses with a diverse, well-composed soundtrack and a fun Jukebox feature, praised by critics like Meristation and Shacknews. However, criticisms of flat voice acting and some monotonous tracks highlight inconsistencies in sound design, leaving room for improvement. Overall, strong musical elements enhance the experience, but the game falls short of franchise expectations in certain areas.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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 generally positive reception among critics, highlighting several strengths that enhance the gaming experience. Many reviewers, such as Meristation and Shacknews, praised the diverse soundtrack, which includes contributions from notable artists like DJ Salvatore Ganacci. The inclusion of a Jukebox feature, allowing players to customize their listening experience with tracks from previous entries in the series, was frequently mentioned as a significant enhancement. Critics from GameBlast and Impulsegamer noted that the soundtrack is not only enjoyable but also well-composed, featuring unique themes for each character and a blend of genres like rock, jazz, and blues that contribute positively to the game's atmosphere. However, not all feedback was favorable, as several critics pointed out shortcomings in the sound design and voice acting. But Why Tho? criticized the voice acting as flat and uninspired, which detracted from the excitement expected in a fighting game. Additionally, TheSixthAxis mentioned that while the soundtrack features contributions from various DJs, it ultimately felt monotonous and failed to match the game's vibe. Some reviews, like that of Gamepressure, indicated that certain tracks did not fit the game's atmosphere, leading to a less cohesive audio experience. This inconsistency in quality has left some critics feeling that the sound design did not fully live up to the expectations set by the franchise's legacy. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves boasts a strong soundtrack and innovative features like the Jukebox mode, there are notable inconsistencies in sound design and voice acting quality. Critics like GameSpot and Generación Xbox acknowledged the unique contributions to the music but also pointed out that the overall impact could have been analyzed more deeply. The positive aspects, such as the diverse range of music and customization options, seem to outweigh the negatives, but the mixed feedback suggests that there is room for improvement in future iterations of the franchise.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves features praised dual-language voice acting, particularly the compelling Japanese performances that enrich character narratives. However, criticisms abound regarding flat and inconsistent voice work, especially in the South Town mode where the absence of voice acting detracts from immersion. While the option for both English and Japanese is a strong point, inconsistent quality may undermine the game's overall narrative impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

29%

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

The voice acting in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves has garnered a mix of praise from several critics, particularly for its dual-language options. Generación Xbox and Atomix both commend the Japanese voice performances, suggesting they enhance the overall experience with more compelling portrayals. Critics like TheXboxHub and Creative Bloq highlight how the voiceovers complement the game's comic book-style storytelling, adding depth to character narratives and interactions. Additionally, GameBlast emphasizes the meticulous dubbing for various characters, which contributes positively to the immersive experience. Overall, the availability of both English and Japanese voice options is seen as a strong point, allowing players to choose their preferred experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting that detract from the game's overall quality. But Why Tho? describes the voice acting as flat and uninterested, which diminishes the excitement of the game. Similarly, Finger Guns critiques the portrayal of the character Ronaldo as out of place and poorly executed, indicating inconsistencies in performance quality. Moreover, Game8 and GamingTrend point out the absence of voice acting in the Episodes of South Town mode, labeling it a significant flaw that makes the narrative feel lifeless. PlayStation Universe also mentions the inconsistency in voice work, with some characters performing well while others sound dated, reminiscent of recordings from the 90s. In summary, while many critics appreciate the voice acting in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves for its dual-language options and the depth it adds to character interactions, there are considerable concerns regarding performance quality and consistency. Critics like Hobby Consolas and Vandal support the notion that the Japanese voice acting is superior, yet others highlight significant flaws, particularly in certain characters and modes. The overall consensus suggests that while the voice acting can enhance the experience, its shortcomings may hinder the game's narrative impact for some players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves" impresses with smooth 60 FPS gameplay and effective rollback netcode on both PS5 and Xbox Series X, earning praise for online performance. However, issues like long loading times and server instability mar the experience. Critics agree it shows promise but needs improvements in UX and server reliability to fully capitalize on its multiplayer potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (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 mix of positive feedback across different gaming platforms. On the PS5, many reviewers praised the game's performance, highlighting its smooth gameplay at 60 frames per second and the effective implementation of rollback netcode for online play. Critics from Atomix and Shacknews noted the game's stable online experience, with no lag or glitches during matches. Similarly, Xbox Series X players experienced solid technical performance, with GameCritics and TheXboxHub reporting smooth online matches and responsive gameplay, thanks to the well-implemented netcode. Overall, the game appears to provide a satisfactory experience in terms of technical performance, particularly for online play. However, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out for both platforms. On the PS5, several reviewers, including Gamepressure and Critical Hits, mentioned issues with long loading screens and a confusing user interface, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, while online play is generally stable, some critics, such as Hey Poor Player, reported significant server issues at launch, including disconnects and poor signal. For the Xbox Series X, while most reviews were positive, Generación Xbox highlighted technical issues like poorly cut subtitles that affected the localized experience. Moreover, Cultured Vultures raised concerns about server maintenance during testing, leading to uncertainty regarding online stability. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that "Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves" performs well technically, especially regarding online multiplayer functionality. While both platforms show promise with features like rollback netcode and smooth gameplay, there are areas for improvement, particularly in user interface design and server stability. Critics like Meristation and Vandal emphasized that despite some initial hiccups, the game has the potential to deliver a robust online experience, provided that the developers address the highlighted issues in future updates.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves impresses with diverse modes and engaging gameplay, but its replay value is a mixed bag. Critics laud the variety and online play, citing rewards for mastering characters. However, repetitive elements and shallow modes may turn off casual players, leading to concerns over long-term engagement. The game shines for dedicated fans, but lacks the depth to keep everyone coming back.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

74%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves highlight several positive aspects that contribute to its overall appeal. Many critics recognize the game's diverse array of modes and character options, which provide players with substantial content to explore. For instance, Meristation praises the multiple game modes, including Arcade and RPG elements, while TheXboxHub emphasizes the engaging online play and character leveling in the Episodes of South Town (EOST) mode. Critics like But Why Tho? and Impulsegamer also note that the ability to unlock new skills and face stronger opponents encourages players to return, suggesting a rewarding experience for those willing to invest time in mastering the game. However, despite these positives, several criticisms emerge regarding the game's replay value. A recurring theme among reviewers is the repetitive nature of certain modes, particularly the Episodes of South Town, which GameSpot and GameSpew highlight as a limiting factor. Critics such as Atomix and Gameblog.fr express concerns that the game's content may not be extensive enough to retain the interest of casual players, with some suggesting that the lack of depth in the story mode could hinder long-term engagement. Additionally, Gamer.no points out the absence of incentives for continued play, indicating a potential shortfall in replayability for those seeking a more addictive experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves offers a variety of modes and engaging gameplay, its replay value is a mixed bag. Many reviewers, including GamingBolt and Shacknews, acknowledge the game's solid foundation and potential for replayability, particularly for dedicated fans of the franchise. However, the repetitive elements and lack of depth in certain modes, as noted by critics like SpazioGames and TheSixthAxis, may deter some players from returning after their initial experience. As a result, the game appears to cater more to those who appreciate character mastery and online play, while casual players might find themselves less inclined to revisit the title in the long run.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (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 its engaging gameplay and visual appeal. Reviewers like GameSpot and IGN Brasil highlight the successful revival of the franchise, noting the blend of traditional and modern mechanics that cater to both veteran fans and newcomers. Critics from Cultured Vultures and Generación Xbox commend the game's ability to evoke nostalgia while introducing fresh elements, making it a recommended title for fighting game enthusiasts. The game’s artistic presentation and deep mechanics are also frequently mentioned, with outlets like Meristation and Noisy Pixel emphasizing the strong gameplay experience it offers. However, despite the positive aspects, several critics point out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Issues such as repetitive modes, limited offline content, and a lack of narrative depth are recurrent themes in reviews. For instance, GameCritics and Gamepressure mention that while the gameplay is solid, the story mode and character choices leave much to be desired. Critics like Atomix and Shacknews express concerns about the game’s ability to compete with other titles in the genre, suggesting that it struggles with accessibility and depth, particularly for casual players. Furthermore, some reviews, such as those from IGN France and Gamer.no, indicate that the game may not appeal to a broader audience due to its complexity and lack of engaging content. The overall consensus among critics is that Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is a commendable return for the franchise, successfully blending nostalgia with modern gameplay mechanics. Many reviewers, including those from Vgames and This Is Game, recommend the title for both long-time fans and newcomers, acknowledging its strong gameplay and visuals. However, the game is also seen as having room for improvement, particularly in areas such as storytelling and character selection, as noted by critics like Vandal and TheSixthAxis. Ultimately, while the game has its flaws, it is generally regarded as a solid fighting game that has the potential to grow within the competitive scene.

TL;DR

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is a mostly praised revival of the franchise, blending nostalgia with modern gameplay that appeals to both veterans and newcomers. Critics highlight its strong visuals and engaging mechanics, but note flaws like repetitive modes, limited offline content, and weak storytelling. While it's a solid title for fighting game fans, improvements are needed to enhance accessibility and depth for casual players. Overall, it’s recommended, with potential for growth in the competitive scene.

MONSTER

Reviews

123 reviews found

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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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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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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Vgames

PlayStation 5

Apr 20, 2025

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

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves marks a significant return for the franchise, combining engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and a rich soundtrack, despite some minor technical issues. It is recommended for both fans 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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MeuPlayStation

PlayStation 5

May 9, 2025

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

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is highly recommended for both fighting game fans and newcomers, with engaging gameplay and a variety of content.

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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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