The King of Fighters '96

n/a

The King of Fighters '96
System(s): Sega Saturn
Publisher: SNK
Developer: TUG, Yumekobo
Original system(s): Neo Geo
Sound driver: SCSP/CD-DA (32 tracks)
Peripherals supported: Extended RAM Cartridge (1MB only)
Genre: Fighting Action/Kakutou Action (格闘アクション), Action
Number of players: 1-2
Official in-game languages: 日本語 English Español Português
Release Date RRP Code JP 1996-12-31 ¥5,800 (5,974)5,800e T-3108G JP (1MB RAM Set) 1996-12-31 ¥7,800 (8,034)7,800e T-3109G
Non-Sega versions Arcade Game Boy Neo Geo Neo Geo CD PlayStation

The King of Fighters '96 (ザ・キング・オブ・ファイターズ’９６) is an entry in SNK's The King of Fighters series. It is the third in the series, and the sequel to The King of Fighters '95. It was brought to the Sega Saturn in 1996.

The Saturn version was released late on the 31st of December, almost missing 1996 altogether. Though this version was released exclusively in Japan, it supports all the languages of the Neo Geo versions (Japanese, English, Spanish and Portuguese).

The King of Fighters '96 requires a 1MB Extended RAM Cartridge in order to function correctly. The later 4MB cartridge is incompatible; while the game will boot, graphics will be corrupted.

Story

A new King of Fighters tournament is announced. Since the previous year, the tournament's fame has grown immensely, turning it into a major international event. Huge corporations transform the King of Fighters tournament into a widely televised, commercialized, and celebrated event, drawing crowds from around the world. The tournament is now held by Chizuru Kagura, a descendant of the ancient Yata Clan responsible for sealing the snake demon Orochi, along with the Kusanagi and Yasanaki clans. Chizuru uses the tournament in hopes of finding and recruiting Kyo and Iori in order to stop the upcoming Orochi threat, but Kyo and Iori are not willing to work together.

Gameplay

Character select

Gameplay

Modes

The game has the following modes:

• Team Play: A single-player mode where the player chooses a team (or three characters from any team when Team Edit is enabled) and fights three-on-three elimination matches against all of the teams in the game (ending with the bosses Chizuru Kagura and Goenitz), for a total of 11 matches. There are storyline intermissions throughout the game. This is the main mode.
• Team Vs: A two-player mode where each player chooses a team (or three characters from any team when Team Edit is enabled) and fights a three-on-three elimination match. Players can choose a different team after each match, and the game keeps track of each player's wins and losses.
• Single Play: A single-player mode where the player chooses a character and then fights one-on-one matches against one character from every team (ending with the bosses Chizuru Kagura and Goenitz), for a total of 11 matches. Matches are fought to the best of three rounds. There are storyline intermissions throughout the game.
• Single Vs: A two-player mode where each player chooses a single character and fights a one-on-one match to the best of three rounds. Players can choose a different character after each match, and the game keeps track of each player's wins and losses.
• Survivor: A single-player mode where the player chooses a character and then fights three-on-one matches against all of the teams in the game (ending with the bosses Chizuru Kagura and Goenitz), for a total of 11 matches. The character does not have any health restored between matches aside from the amount partially restored after each round (depending on the player's performance).

In any of the single-player modes, a second player can enter the game for a challenge match by pressing  START  on a second control pad. There are eight difficulty levels (Beginner, Easy, Normal, MVS, Hard, Very Hard, Hardest, Expert).

Characters

Note: Move lists assume that the character is facing right. When facing left, and should be reversed.

P	Any punch button
LP	Light punch
HP	Hard punch

K	Any kick button
LK	Light kick
HK	Hard kick

Shujinkou Team

A team consisting of three characters of the main character of the Orochi Saga, Kyo Kusanagi, and his allies, who have banded together again to fight Goenitz.

	Kyo Kusanagi
	The protagonist of the Orochi Saga. A Japanese high school student and heir of the Kusanagi clan, one of three clans that sealed away the legendary being known as Orochi. He has a nightmare in which he sees Goenitz, a member of the Hakkesshu, trying to revive Orochi, and he reassembles the team to defeat him. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description 114 Shiki: Aragami  LP  Kyo lunges forward with an explosive hook punch using his following arm. While the move is being performed, it can be followed up by a fiery uppercut (128 Shiki: Kono Kizu) with P or an elbow smash (127 Shiki: Yano Sabi) with P. The follow-up move can be followed up with a downward punch (Ge Shiki: Migiri Ugachi) with P or a side kick (125 Shiki: Nanase) with K. 115 Shiki: Dokugami  HP  Kyo steps forward with an explosive hook punch using his leading arm. While the move is being performed, it can be followed up by a backhand (401 Shiki: Tsumi Yomi) with P or a jumping attack (402 Shiki: Batsu Yomi) with +P. 100 Shiki Oni Yaki P Kyo twirls into the air while surrounded in a streak of red fire, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP . 910 Shiki Nue Tumi P Kyo launches his opponent into the air with an uppercut. 75 Shiki Kai K Kyo hops forward with a front kick that knocks his opponent over. He slides before hopping when the move is performed with  HK . It can be followed up with another kick by pressing K again. 202 Shiki Koto Tsuki You K Kyo runs into his opponent with an elbow strike, then lifts the opponent into the air with his hand and causes an explosion of red fire. R.E.D. Kick K Kyo rolls through the air with a kick that knocks his opponent to the ground on impact. The move covers more horizontal distance when it is performed with  HK . Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Ura 108 Shiki Orochi Nagi P Kyo holds a hand into the air and foments a flame while P is held. When the button is released, he swipes his hand down, igniting the air around him, and slides forward was surrounded in flames.
	Benimaru Nikaido
	A young model and Kyo's best friend. He is a professional fighter and the son of a multimillionaire family. He fights with shootboxing and electrokinetic abilities. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Raijin Ken P Benimaru jabs in front of him with an electrically charged fist, which hits up to three times and knocks down the opponent on impact. This move can be performed in midair. Iai Geri K Benimaru does a rapid knee strike. If the player presses +K during the move, Benimaru follows up with a hopping side kick, then an backflips into the air with an electrically charged kick that knocks his opponent over. Shinku Kakate Goma K Benimaru stands on one hand and spins his body around, kicking with both hands, knocking his opponent far back on impact. Super Inazuma Kick K Benimaru backflips into the air with an electrically charged kick that knocks his opponent over. Benimaru Coleda  HP  (close) Benimaru grabs and electrocutes his opponent. Move list (Command normals) Name Command Description Spinning Knee Drop + HP  or + HP  in midair (close) Benimaru grabs and knees his opponent to the ground. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Raikou Ken P Benimaru pulls his fist back to charge it, then jabs in front of him with an electrically charged fist that explodes in an orb of lightning, hitting multiple times.
	Goro Daimon
	A former Olympic gold medalist judoka who has geokinetic abilities. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Jirai Shin  LP   HP  (fake) Daimon lifts his hands above his head, then claps them down, shaking the ground and knocking over opponents not in the air. Tenchi Gaeshi  HP  (close) Daimon picks up and slams his opponent against the ground, then picks them back up and throws them through the air. Kumo Tsukami Nage  LP  (close) Daimon grabs an airborne opponent, then slams them against the ground. Kiri Kabu Gaeshi  HP  (close) Daimon grabs a grounded opponent, then slams them against the ground. Chou Ousoto Gari  LK  (close) Daimon grabs and trips his opponent. Chou Ukemi K Daimon rolls forwards. He rolls farther when the move is performed with  HK . Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Jigoku Gokuraku Otoshi P (close) Daimon grabs and trips his opponent, then picks up and slams them back and forth three times before throwing them high into the air.

Garou Densetsu Team

A team representing characters from the Fatal Fury series of fighting games. They join the tournament after learning that Geese Howard is an invited guest.

	Terry Bogard
	The protagonist of the Fatal Fury series. He enters the tournament to once again face his nemesis Geese Howard. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Burn Knuckle P Terry leaps forward with a burning fist, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He leaps farther when the move is performed with  HP . Power Wave P Terry punches the ground, causing a wave of energy to roll a short distance across the ground. The projectile travels slightly further when the move is performed with  HP . Power Dunk K Terry rises into the air with a knee strike, knocking his opponent over, then smashes downward with a burning fist at the peak of the jump. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP . Rising Tackle P Terry spins into the air while upside down and holding an arm out. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP . Crack Shoot K Terry jumps forward while kicking in a circle. The move covers a wider arc when it is performed with  HK . Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Power Geyser P Terry punches the ground, causing a geyser of energy to erupt from the ground in front of him.
	Andy Bogard
	Terry's brother and a ninja of the Shiranui-ryuu style. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Hishou Ken P Andy throws a short-ranged burst of ki energy from his hand, which knocks the opponent back on impact. The burst is longer when the move is performed with  HP . Shouryuu Dan P Andy jumps into the air while fanning his arms around him, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP . Zan'ei Ken Hold for 2 seconds, then +P Andy charges forward while ramming with his shoulder and knee. If the player presses P during the move, Andy follows up with an additional strike that knocks the opponent back. Kuuhaa Dan K Andy launches off the ground with his hands, flying feet-first toward his opponent. The move knocks the opponent down when performed with  LK  or hits twice when performed with  HK . Gen'ei Shiranui K in midair Andy dives quickly to the ground. The move does no damage by itself, but it can be followed up by a crouching palm thrust that knocks his opponent over with P or a rolling kick with K. Geki Heki Haisui Shou  HP  Andy slides forward with an elbow strike, then does palm strikes with each hand, ending with a double-handed palm thrust that knocks his opponent over. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Chou Reppa Dan K Andy launches off the ground with his hands, flying at his opponent with a flaming kick.
	Joe Higashi
	A Muay Thai kickboxing champion and a good friend of the Bogard brothers. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Hurricane Upper P Joe punches into the air, generating a cyclone that moves a short distance across the ground. He steps forward and generates a second cyclone when the move is performed with  HP . Baku Retsu Ken PPPPP Joe punches rapidly while sliding forward slowly. If the player presses P during the move, Joe follows up with a downward elbow strike. Slash Kick K Joe turns and launches himself forward with a flying kick that knocks his opponent over. He flies farther when the move is performed with  HK . Tiger Kick K Joe rises diagonally upward with a knee strike. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HK . Ougon no Kakato K Joe jumps forward while doing a rolling kick that can hit multiple times. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Screw Upper P Joe punches into the air, generating a cyclone, then jumps into the air with an uppercut while generating a tall cyclone that covers the full height of the screen.

Ryuuko no Ken Team

A team representing characters from the Art of Fighting series of fighting games. Yuri Sakazaki takes the place of her father, Takuma, after his retirement.

	Ryo Sakazaki
	The protagonist of the Art of Fighting series. He is a practitioner of Kyokugen-ryuu, a style of karate created by his father. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Ko Ou Ken P Ryo thrusts a short-ranged burst of ki energy from his hand, which knocks the opponent back on impact. He slides forward slightly when the move is performed with  HP . Kohou P Ryo jumps into the air while performing an uppercut, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP . Mouko Raijin Gou P Ryo slides forward with an uppercut that can hit multiple times. Hien Shippu Kyaku K Ryo leaps ahead with a flying kick, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He follows up with an aerial roundhouse when the move is performed with  HK . Kyokugen Ryu Ranbu Ken  HP  (close) Ryo does a combo of three quick punches that knock his opponent over. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Haoh Shoukou Ken P Ryo channels and throws a large fireball from both hands. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP . Ryuuko Ranbu P (close) Ryo rushes forward and unleashes a flurry of punches and kicks, then finishes with a Kohou.
	Robert Garcia
	Ryo's best friend and friendly rival who fights using a kick-heavy version of Kyokugen-ryuu. He comes from a wealthy family. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Ryuu Geki Ken P Robert thrusts a short-ranged burst of ki energy from his hand, which knocks the opponent back on impact. He slides forward slightly when the move is performed with  HP . Ryuu Ga P Robert jumps into the air while performing an uppercut. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP . Hien Ryuu Jin Kyaku K in midair Robert dive kicks diagonally downwards. He travels a longer distance when the move is performed with  HK . Hien Shippu Kyaku K Robert leaps ahead with a flying kick, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He follows up with an aerial roundhouse when the move is performed with  HK . Kyokugen Ryu Ranbu Kyaku  HK  (close) Robert does a combo of four quick kicks that knock his opponent over. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Haoh Shoukou Ken P Robert channels and throws a large fireball from both hands. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP . Ryuuko Ranbu P (close) Robert rushes forward and unleashes a flurry of punches and kicks, then finishes with a Ryuu Ga.
	Yuri Sakazaki
	The younger sister of Ryo, who fights with an unorthodox take on Kyokugen-ryuu. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Ko Ou Ken P Yuri thrusts a short-ranged burst of ki energy from his hand, which knocks the opponent back on impact. He slides forward slightly when the move is performed with  HP . Rai'oh Ken K Yuri jumps into the air and swings her arms downward with a burst of ki. She jumps higher when the move is performed with  HK . Kuu Ga P Yuri jumps into the air while performing an uppercut, which knocks down her opponent on impact. She ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP . While the move is being performed, it can be followed up by a second jumping uppercut (Ura Kuu Ga) with P again. Hien Senpuu Ken P Yuri leaps forward with a flying punch that knocks her opponent over. She leaps farther when the move is performed with  HP . Hien Senpuu Kyaku K Yuri jumps into the air and rotates on an axis while kicking her leg out, which knocks down her opponent on impact. She jumps higher and farther when the move is performed with  HK . Hyaku Retsu Binta  HP  Yuri rushes forward and grabs her opponent, then slaps them repeatedly. Move list (Command normals) Name Command Description Tsubame Otoshi + HP / HK , + HP / HK , or + HP / HK  in midair (close) Yuri grabs and slams her opponent to the ground. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Haoh Shokou Ken P Yuri channels and throws a large fireball from both hands. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP . Hien Hou'ou Kyaku K Yuri dashes forward, then runs up her opponent with a series of stomps.

Shin Ikari Team

A new team representing characters from the Ikari Warriors series of run-and-gun games. Heidern has decided not to participate this year, having fulfilled his goal of killing Rugal, so his adopted daughter Leona takes his place.

	Leona
	A new recruit to the squad. He was found and adopted by Heidern, who found her after her village was destroyed and her family was murdered by the Hakkesshu. She has lost her memory but resolves to take revenge upon Goenitz. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Baltic Launcher Hold for 2 seconds, then +P Leona throws her hands back and generates a large energy sphere in front of her that can hit her opponent multiple times. She hovers in the air and the sphere moves forward a short distance when the move is performed with  HP . Moon Slasher Hold for 2 seconds, then +P Leona slashes the air around her in a circle, which knocks down her opponent on impact. Grand Saber Hold for 2 seconds, then +K Leona runs forward while low to the ground, then slashes with her hand, knocking the opponent over on impact. While the move is being performed, it can be followed up by a somersault kick (Gliding Buster) with + HK . X-Calibur Hold for 2 seconds, then +K Leona flips into the air, then slashes her hands in an X pattern on the way down. Move list (Command normals) Name Command Description Critical Dive + HP / HK  or + HP / HK  in midair (close) Leona mounts her opponent like a surfboard, then kicks them away. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description V-Slasher P in midair Leona dives down with a hand chop, then cuts back into the air, forming a V-shaped explosion.
	Ralf Jones
	The protagonist of the Ikari Warriors series. He is a mercenary whose fighting style is based on hard punches. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Vulcan Punch PPPPP Ralf does a series of rapid upward punches that toss his opponent back. He can move forward with while doing this. Gatling Attack Hold for 2 seconds, then +P Ralf slides forward with an elbow strike, a spinning backhand, and an uppercut. He slides further when the move is performed with  HP . Kyukoka Bakudan Punch Hold for 2 seconds, then +P or P in midair Ralf jumps in the air, then drops down with an explosive dive punch. Ralf Kick Hold for 2 seconds, then +K Ralf leaps through the air with a dropkick that knocks his opponent back. He leaps further when the move is performed with  HK . Super Argentine Back Breaker  HK  (close) Ralf tosses his opponent high into the air, then catches them with a backbreaker and slams them to the ground. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Bari Bari Vulcan Punch P Ralf slides forward with an elbow strike, a spinning backhand, and a series of rapid explosive punches, then finishes with an uppercut. Unamori Vulcan Punch K Ralf runs forward and pushes down his opponent, then pummels them with a series of explosive punches.
	Clark Still
	Ralf's best friend and a former spy before joining the Ikari Warriors. He fights with a wrestling-based fighting style. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Vulcan Punch PPPPP Clark does a series of rapid upward punches that toss his opponent back. He can move forward with while doing this. Napalm Stretch P Clark jumps into the air and catches an airborne opponent, then grabs them and rolls to the ground with a slam. He can follow up the move with an elbow drop by pressing P after he hits the ground with the opponent. Rolling Cradler P Clark runs forward, then grabs the opponent and rolls backward with them, finishing with a slam. He can follow up the move with an elbow drop by pressing P after he slams the opponent. Frankensteiner  LK  (close) Clark grabs his opponent by the neck with his legs and slams them to the ground. He can follow up the move with an elbow drop by pressing P after he turns around and throws the opponent. Super Argentine Back Breaker  HK  (close) Clark tosses his opponent high into the air, then catches them with a backbreaker and slams them to the ground. He can follow up the move with an elbow drop by pressing P after he turns around and throws the opponent. Move list (Command normals) Name Command Description Death Lake Driver + HP / HK , + HP / HK , or + HP / HK  in midair (close) Clark grabs and throws his opponent to the ground. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Ultra Argentine Back Breaker  HP  (close) Clark tosses his opponent high into the air and catches them with a backbreaker three times, then kneels and drives the opponent into his knee.

Psycho Soldier Team

A team representing characters from the Psycho Soldier series of platforming games. They join the tournament to put their powers and training to the test.

	Athena Asamiya
	The protagonist of Psycho Soldier. She is a pop idol with powerful psychic abilities and kung fu training (with a greater emphasis on the former). Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Psycho Ball P Athena generates and throws a ball of psychic energy. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP . Phoenix Arrow P in midair Athena curls into a ball and dives diagonally downwards while glowing like a meteor. She finishes with a sweep kick after landing when the move is performed with  HP . Psycho Sword P Athena rises upward while her hand slices the air with psychic power. She ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP . This move can be performed in midair. Nu Psycho Reflector K Athena holds her palms out and generates a shield of psychic power. It knocks back opponents that touch it and also reflects projectiles. She leaps forward before generating the shield when the move is performed with  HK . Psycho Teleport K Athena runs forward at high speed. She can be hit while doing this but can pass through opponents. Move list (Command normals) Name Command Description Sankaku Tobi when jumping onto the edge of the screen Athena can jump off the edges of the screen. Psychic Shoot + HP  or + HP  in midair (close) Athena grabs and throws her opponent in midair. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Shining Crystal Bit P Athena hovers in the air and channels psychic energy while orbs revolve around her. If the player presses P during the move, Athena points forward and shoots a powerful projectile across the screen.
	Sie Kensou
	The self-proclaimed love interest of Athena, who has the same psychic abilities and kung fu training as Athena (though his fighting style emphasizes the latter). Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Chou Kyuu Dan P Kensou generates and throws a ball of psychic energy. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP . Ryuu Ren Ga P Kensou leaps forward with an elbow strike. If it hits, he follows up with a knee strike and a turning kick. He leaps farther when the move is performed with  HP . Ryuu Sou Geki P in midair Kensou dives diagonally downwards with a palm strike that hits multiple times. Ryuu Gaku Sai K Kensou stands on his hands and propels himself into the air with a split-leg kick. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HK . Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Shinryuu Seiou Kyaku  LK  Kensou leaps forward with a flying kick, followed by a front kick and a turning kick, then stands on his hands and propels himself into the air with a split-leg kick. Shinryuu Tenbu Kyaku  HK  Kensou leaps forward with a flying kick, followed by a front kick and a turning kick while juggling the opponent into the air, then stands on his hands after landing and propels himself into the air with a split-leg kick.
	Chin Gentsai
	The master of Athena and Kensou and a master of various styles of kung fu, though he fights primarily with drunken boxing. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Hyoutan Geki P Chin whips a gourd through the air in front of him. He whips it twice, once high and once low, when the move is performed with  HP . Ryuu Rin Hou Rai P Chin leaps through the air with a rolling body attack. He walks forward with multiple spinning elbow strikes before leaping when the move is performed with  HP . Suikan Kan Ou P Chin leaps forward with a falling body attack. Kaiten Tekikuu Totsu Ken K Chin rolls along the ground, then does an upward hand strike that knocks his opponent over. Bugetsu Sui K Chin falls back, flat on the ground, for a duration before standing back up again. While he is in this state, he can fly forward with a kick with + LK , cartwheel backward with + HK , or roll forward with an upward hand strike Kaiten Tekikuu Totsu Ken with K. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Gou Ran Enpou P Chin takes a drink from his gourd, then breathes a stream of fire. He breathes the stream diagonally upwards with  LP  or straight ahead with  HP .

Kim Team

A Korean team consisting of Kim Kaphwan (from Fatal Fury) and two original characters. They join the tournament so Kim can prove the effectiveness of his criminal rehabilitation program.

	Kim Kaphwan
	A taekwondo master with a strong sense of justice who formed the Korea Justice Team in order to rehabilitate the two criminals on his team. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Han Getsu Zan K Kim rolls forward with a somersaulting crescent kick, which knocks down his opponent on impact. The move covers a wider arc when it is performed with  HK . Kuusa Jin Hold for 2 seconds, then +P Kim spins diagonally upward while kicking. He ascends higher and hits an additional time when the move is performed with  HP . Hien Zan Hold for 2 seconds, then +K Kim flips backward, slicing through the air with a circular kick, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He ascends higher and hits an additional time when the move is performed with  HK . Hishou Kyaku K in midair Kim dives diagonally downward while stomping repeatedly. Ryuusei Ranku Hold for 2 seconds, then +K Kim slides forward with a sweep kick, then jumps in the air and performs an axe kick. He slides further when the move is performed with  HK . Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Hou'ou Kyaku K Kim performs a series of rapid kicks, then finishes with a backflip kick. This move can be performed in midair.
	Chang Koehan
	A very large criminal who fights with a big metal ball attached to a chain. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Tekkyuu Dai Kaiten PPPPP Chang swings his ball by its chain over his head, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He swings the ball for a duration or until the player presses  LP + HP + LK + HK , and he can move with or while doing this. Tekkyuu Funsai Geki Hold for 2 seconds, then +P Chang flings his ball by its chain in front of him, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He slides forward slightly when the move is performed with  HP . Tekkyu Hien Zan Hold for 2 seconds, then +K Chang flips backwards through the air with a kick, falling on his back. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HK . Dai Hakai Nage + HP  Chang grabs and slams his opponent back and forth multiple times. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Tekkyuu Dai Bousou P Chang charges forward with a series of strikes, then swings his ball by its chain over his head and flips backwards through the air with a kick, falling on his back.
	Choi Bounge
	A very small criminal who fights with two clawed hands (resembling the horror movie villain Freddy Krueger). Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Kaiten Hien Zuki Hold for 2 seconds, then +P Choi runs forward, then jumps while slashing his claws when he is near his opponent. Tatsumaki Shippuu Zan Hold for 2 seconds, then +P Choi spirals upward in a tornado while slashing around him with his claws. He slides forward a short distance and ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP . Hishou Kuuretsu Zan Hold for 2 seconds, then +K Choi jumps to the back edge of the screen. He can jump to the front edge of the screen by pressing instead of . If the player continues to hold K after performing the move, Choi immediately does a dive attack with his claws after hitting the wall. Hishou Kyaku K in midair Choi dives diagonally downward, then stomps repeatedly on his opponent. Senpuu Hien Shitotsu Hold for 2 seconds, then +K Choi flies ahead head-first while spinning like a drill with his claws in front of him. He flies faster and further when the move is performed with  HK . He can follow up with another drill spin by holding the D-Pad in any direction while pressing any attack button. Move list (Command normals) Name Command Description Sankaku Tobi when jumping onto the edge of the screen Choi can jump off the edges of the screen. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Shin! Chouzetsu Tatsumaki Shinkuu Zan P Choi spins on one leg, producing a large tornado that covers the full height of the screen. He can move with or while doing this.

Shin Josei Kakutouka Team

A new Women Fighters Team, with Kasumi Todoh (from Art of Fighting 2) taking the place of Yuri Sakazaki, who joined her brother's team.

	Kasumi Todoh
	An Aikido student who is searching for her father, Todoh (from the first Art of Fighting game). Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Kasame Ate P Kasumi pulls her arms back, then throws them down, splashing a wave of energy downward. She slides forward slightly when the move is performed with  HP . This move can be performed in midair. Shiro Yamado P Kasumi uppercuts her opponent into the air. Messhin Mutho  LK  Kasumi holds her arm out in a defensive posture. If she is hit by an airborne attack, she intercepts the attack, then grabs and throws the opponent. Sassho Inshuu  HK  Kasumi holds her palm out in a defensive posture. If she is hit by a grounded attack, she intercepts the attack, then grabs and kicks the opponent away. Tatsumaki Souda  HP  (close) Kasumi hits her opponent with a backhand, an underhand palm strike, and an uppercut. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Chou Kasane Ate P Kasumi pulls her arms back. When the button is released, she throws them down, splashing a tall wave of energy that rolls across the ground and can hit multiple times.
	Mai Shiranui
	A kunoichi who practices her family's own martial art, Shiranui-ryuu Ninjutsu. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Ka Chou Sen P Mai throws her folding fan at her opponent. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP . Ryuu En Bu P Mai twirls around, whipping her opponent with the sash around her waist, which is set alight. Hissatsu Shinobi Bachi K Mai performs a cartwheel, then drops to the ground with an elbow strike. The move travels more distance when it is performed with  HK . Musasabi no Mai (Chijou) Hold for 2 seconds, then +P, then P Mai jumps to the back edge of the screen. She can jump to the front edge of the screen by pressing instead of . If the player continues to hold P after performing the move, Mai dives diagonally downward with her arms spread out. The move covers more horizontal distance when it is performed with  HP  (for the first button press). Musasabi no Mai (Kuuchuu) P in midair Mai dives diagonally downward with her arms spread out. The move covers more horizontal distance when it is performed with  HP . Move list (Command normals) Name Command Description Sankaku Tobi when jumping onto the edge of the screen Mai can jump off the edges of the screen. Yume Zakura + HK , + HK , or + HK  in midair (close) Mai grabs and stomps her opponent to the ground. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Chou Hissatu Shinobibachi K Mai does a cartwheel kick, then flies through the air with an elbow strike while flames radiate from her body.
	King
	A bar owner who fights with her own kick-heavy take on Muay Thai. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Venom Strike K King performs a jumping kick, lobbing a fireball through the air. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP . Double Strike K King performs two jumping kicks in quick succession, lobbing two fireballs through the air. The projectiles move faster when the move is performed with  HP . Trap Shot K King performs a somersault. If it hits, she follows up with a barrage of fast kicks. Tornado Kick K King climbs into the air with multiple rotating kicks. She kicks more times when the move is performed with  HK . Mirage Kick K King runs forward, then hits her opponent with alternating high and low kicks. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Illusion Dance K King does a backflip, then performs a series of rapid kicks, ending with a somersault kick and two leaping kicks.

Yagami Team

A new team consisting of Iori Yagami, rival to protagonist Kyo Kusanagi, and Rugal's former secretaries Mature and Vice. They enter the tournament with the goal of killing Kyo. It is always the second-to-last team fought before facing the bosses in the arcade modes.

	Iori Yagami
	The last heir to the Yagami clan, one of the three clans that sealed away Orochi, and the rival of Kyo. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description 108 Shiki Yami Barai P Iori throws fiery purple sparks across the ground. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP . 127 Shiki Aoi Hana P (up to 3 times) Iori advances with an uppercut. The motion can be repeated up to three times, in which case he follows up with an additional uppercut, then jumps and comes down with a double axe-handle punch. 100 Shiki Oniyaki P Iori twirls into the air while surrounded in a streak of purple fire, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP . 212 Shiki Kototsuki In K Iori runs forward and tries to grab his opponent by the head. If he succeeds, he takes the opponent down, then causes an explosion of purple fire. Kuzukaze  HP  (close) Iori grabs and shoves his opponent away. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Kin 1211 Shiki Ya Otome P Iori dashes forward and performs a series of hand strikes, ending by grabbing the opponent and creating an explosion of purple fire.
	Mature
	One of Rugal's secretaries before his death. She is a member of the Hakkesshu brotherhood and has been ordered by Goenitz to assist Iori in order to keep an eye on him. She fights with her sharp nails. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Despair P Mature flips forward through the air while swiping her hands. The move covers more horizontal distance when it is performed with  HP . Death Row P (up to 3 times) Mature advances with an upward hand swipe. The motion can be repeated up to three times, in which case she follows up with two lateral swipes. Metal Massacre K Mature runs forward, then does a lateral hand swipe when she is near her opponent. Decider P Mature swipes her hand out, which stretches to reach. If it connects, she grabs and throws her opponent back. She slides forward slightly when the move is performed with  HP . Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Heaven's Gate K Mature charges across the screen, tackling the opponent into the wall, which causes a pillar of dark energy to explode.
	Vice
	One of Rugal's secretaries before his death. She is a member of the Hakkesshu brotherhood and has been ordered by Goenitz to assist Iori in order to keep an eye on him. She fights with her monstrous strength. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Outrage/Ravenous K Vice kicks rapidly in front of her. This move can be performed in midair. Decider P Vice swipes her hand out, which stretches to reach. If it connects, she grabs and throws her opponent back. She slides forward slightly when the move is performed with  HP . Gore Fest  HP  (close) Vice grabs her opponent by the head, slides forward while dragging the opponent against the ground, then throws them into the air. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Negative Gain  HP  (close) Vice grabs her opponent by the neck with her legs, then slams them to the ground three times.

Boss Team

A new team consisting of the bosses of three games: Geese Howard (Fatal Fury), Wolfgang Krauser (Fatal Fury 2), and Mr. Big (Art of Fighting). It is always the last team fought before facing the bosses in the arcade modes.

	Geese Howard
	The nemesis of the Bogard brothers. He enters the tournament under the guise of seeking revenge against Terry Bogard, but he really wants to learn more about Orochi's power. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Reppuuken P Geese swipes his hand upward, creating an arc of ki energy in front of him. He steps forward with two alternating swipes when the move is performed with  HP , and the second wipe knocks down the opponent on impact. Shippuuken P in midair Geese throws a fireball a short distance diagonally downward. Hishou Nichirin Zan P Geese jumps in the air and swipes his hand downward, creating an arc of ki energy in front of him, which knocks down the opponent on impact. Jaeiken P Geese dashes forward with an elbow ram, the two alternating palm strikes, which knocks down the opponent on impact. Atemi Nage K Geese catches a jumping attack from his opponent and counters with a throw. Atemi Uchi K Geese catches a standing attack from his opponent and counters with a throw. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Raging Storm P Geese ducks and calls energy spikes around him.
	Wolfgang Krauser
	Geese's half-brother, who enters the tournament to test his strength. Move list (Special moves) Name Command Description Blitz Ball P or K Wolfgang throws a fireball. He throws it high with P or low with K. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP . Leg Tomahawk K Wolfgang leaps forward with a rolling kick. The move covers a wider arc when it is performed with  HK . Kaiser Kick K Wolfgang jumps with a dropkick. Kaiser Double Sobat K Wolfgang hops forward with two quick kicks. Lift Up Blow P (close) Wolfgang grabs his opponent, then jumps back with a suplex. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Kaiser Wave P Wolfgang pulls his arms back, then throws a tall fireball across the screen. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP .
	Mr. Big
	A crime boss who enters the tournament to try to expand the influence of his criminal organization. Move list Name Command Description Drum Shot PPPPP Mr. Big slides forward while swinging his sticks in front of him. Grand Blaster P Mr. Big swings a stick along the ground, creating a burst of flame in front of him, which knocks the opponent back on impact. He slides forward slightly when the move is performed with  HP . California Romance P Mr. Big jumps into the air while holding one of his sticks out. He charges forward with one of his sticks before jumping when the move is performed with  HP . Cross Diving P Mr. Big flies forward while holding his sticks out and spinning like a torpedo. He flies farther when the move is performed with  HP . Spinning Lancer K Mr. Big links his sticks together into a long staff, then spins forward while holding the staff. He spins farther and follows up with an additional strike that knocks the opponent over when the move is performed with  HK . Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Blaster Wave P Mr. Big charges his sticks with lightning, then lunges forward, using the sticks to generate an orb of electricity in front of him.

Bosses

Both bosses are new characters and can be played using a cheat code.

	Chizuru Kagura
	The heiress of the Yata clan, one of the three clans to seal away Orochi. She hosts the tournament in order to bring the descendants of the three clans together in order to prevent Orochi from being revived by the Hakkesshu. She fights with dance-like motions and open-handed strikes and can create mirror images of herself. She is the sub-boss of the game. Move list Name Command Description 108 Katsu Tamayura no Shitsune P Chizuru swipes an arm down, creating an energy orb that knocks down her opponent on impact. She twirls forward a short distance when the move is performed with  HP . 100 Katso Tenjin no Kotowari P Chizuru creates an illusion that spins upward with her arms outstretched. 212 Katsu Shinsoku no Noroti P or K Chizuru creates an illusion that runs forward and hits her opponent with an upward palm strike when it is performed with P, which knocks the opponent back, or a lateral palm swipe when it is performed with K, which knocks the opponent down. It can be followed up by a jumping strike with P or by a downward palm strike with K. She takes the place of the illusion after the move is complete. Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Ichimen Ikatsu San Rai no Fui Jin K Chizuru creates an illusion that twirls forward with her arms outstretched. Ichimen 85 Katsu Reigi no Ishizue P Chizuru slides forward with a low punch. If it hits, the opponent glows and cannot perform special moves for a duration.
	Goenitz
	A priest of the Hakkesshu, a cult of Orochi's devoted followers. He seeks to revive his master. He is the final boss of the game. Move list Name Command Description Wanpyou P Goenitz snaps his fingers and creates multiple curved blades of wind that shred through the air in front of him. He aims the blades straight ahead when the move is performed with  LP  or angled upward when the move is performed with  HP . Hyouga K Goenitz vanishes in a gust of wind, then reappears while dashing low and forward when the move is performed with  LP  or falling forward from the air when the move is performed with  HP . Yonokaze P or K Goenitz creates a tall vortex that fills the height of the screen. He creates it in front of him with  LP , a third of the screen in front of him with  LK , two thirds of the screen in front of him with  HP , or across the screen with  HK . Move list (Desperation moves) Name Command Description Shin Ya Otome P Goenitz dashes forward with a series of hand swipes, then grabs and strangles his opponent before throwing them. Yamidoukoku  HP  (close) Goenitz grabs his opponent by the head, then summons a vortex under the opponent.

Special Edit Teams

The game is the first in the series to introduce the concept of Special Edit Teams, which are custom teams that the player can form that have their own endings. The only Special Edit Team in this game is the Three Sacred Treasures Team, formed by choosing Kyo Kusanagi, Iori Yagami, and (with a cheat code) Chizuru Kagura. These are the descendants of the three clans that sealed away Orochi in the past.

Stages

Every team has their own stage where they are faced. The stage is chosen based on the first member of the opposing team when facing a mixed team.

Shujinkou Team

Garou Densetsu Team

Ryuuko no Ken Team

Shin Ikari Team

Psycho Soldier Team

Kim Team

Shin Josei Kakutouka Team

Yagami Team

Boss Team

The Finals at Kagura Stadium

The Ruins of Kagura Stadium

Versions

The Saturn version of The King of Fighters '96 stems from the Neo Geo CD and shares its arranged CD audio soundtrack. Loading times are faster on the Saturn than on the Neo Geo CD, though sound effects have been lowered in quality and some stage introduction special effects are missing. Animations on the character selection screen are missing in all CD versions of the game, as are team reactions when the player is slammed into the ground during a fight.

The Saturn compares favourably to its PlayStation counterpart, which in addition to the aforementioned cuts, lacks many character and background animations. The PlayStation port also manages to load slower than the Neo Geo CD at times, despite its disc drive being twice as fast.

Production credits

• Producer: T・Nishiyama
• Chief Director: Kuwayan
• System Director: Toyochan
• Sub Director: Toyochan, Haruo Tomita, Namaan-Hiroto, T.Hosokawa
• System Editor: K・Mac・Nagashima
• Front Designer: Tatsuru-Man, C・Yamasaki, Goro Hamada, Akihiko Nasu, Kyow!Iori?Hiraki, Shagiko Hagihara, Naisyo・・・・, M・Asakura, Joe・Terry Sato, Toba, ・・・・・, Miho Uematsu, Akiko Yukawa, S.Yamamoto, Kal-Mizuno, Mitsuru Kawasaki, Kohrin, (Mika) Nisida, I-no-u-e, 44Oka, Aska Tahara
• Back Designer: Etosan, Manoru, Bibidebabidebu, Tsugumi.A, Eri Koujitani, [214 Kusu], Souji Takamori, M.Yokoyama, Raishi
• Program: Shinchan-R32, S・Fujinuki, Cyber・Kondo
• Sound: Sha-V, Konny, Papaya, Shimizm, Yamapy-1, Tate-Norio, Brother-Hige, Ackey, Miwa
• Voice: Masahiro Nonaka, Monster Maetsuka, Masaki Usui, S・Hashimoto, Keiichi Nanba, Nobuyuki Hiyama, Koichi Mantaro, Kaori Horie, Masae Yumi, Yoshinori Shima, Tamao Sato, Eiji Yano, T・Nishimura, Hiroyuki Arita, Harumi Ikoma, Akoya Sogi, Kunihiko Yasui, Yuko Tuji, Kong Kuwata, BJ Love, Masaru Naka, Akiko Saito
• Special Thanks to: Y・Inui, Team Pow, Team Syunsuke 96, M.Yasuda, Kazu,Takinaka, and All SNK Staff
• Produced by: SNK

Source:

In-game credits

---

The King Of Fighters '96 サターン版移植スタッフ

• (有)TUG
  • プログラマー: 林 高志, 小島 卓也, 村岡 敬, 黒川 昌昭
• (株)夢工房
  • 赤池 光雄, 井上 和俊, 近藤 和夫, 渋谷 麻紀夫
• ミュージックスタジオ: ファースト・サークル
• サウンド: 藤田 靖明

Source:

In-CD-ROM credits (HT_BIB.TXT)

Magazine articles

Main article: The King of Fighters '96/Magazine articles.

Promotional material

Print advert in Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) #1996-20: "1996-20 (1996-11-22)" (1996-11-08)

Print advert in Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) #1996-21: "1996-21 (1996-12-13)" (1996-11-22)

Print advert in Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) #1996-22: "1996-22 (1996-12-27)" (1996-12-13)

Print advert in Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) #1997-01: "1997-01 (1997-01-17)" (1996-12-27)

Physical scans

Sega Retro Average
Publication Score Source

{{{{{icon}}}|L}}
Based on 0 review

Sega Retro Average
Publication Version Score Computer & Video Games (UK) 100 Famitsu (JP) NTSC-J 78 GameFan (US) 90 MAN!AC (DE) NTSC-J 85 Saturn Fan (JP) NTSC-J 76 Saturn Fan (JP) NTSC-J 76 Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) NTSC-J 90 Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) NTSC-J 87

	85
Based on 8 reviews

The King of Fighters '96

Saturn, JP
Cover
Spinecard Disc Manual

Saturn, JP (1MB RAM Set)
Cover
Disc

Technical information

Main article: The King of Fighters '96/Technical information.

References

The King of Fighters games for Sega systems or published by Sega
	The King of Fighters '95 (1996) | The King of Fighters '96 (1996) | The King of Fighters '96 + '95: Gentei KOF Double Pack (No results?) | The King of Fighters '97 (1998) | The King of Fighters Best Collection (1998)
	The King of Fighters: Dream Match 1999 (1999) | The King of Fighters: Evolution (2000) | The King of Fighters 2000 (2002) | The King of Fighters 2001 (2002) | The King of Fighters 2002 (2003)
	The King of Fighters Neowave (2004) | The King of Fighters XI (2005)
	The King of Fighters XIV (2016)
Unlicensed The King of Fighters games for Sega systems
King of Fighters 98' (1998) | The King of Fighters '99 (1999)
Related games
Capcom vs. SNK: Millennium Fight 2000 (2000) | Capcom vs. SNK Millennium Fight 2000 Pro (2000) | Capcom vs. SNK 2 Millionaire Fighting 2001 (2001)