Difference between revisions of "The King of Fighters '96"

From Sega Retro

(special buttons)
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{{ScreenThumb|King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Character Select.png|width=200|Character select}}
 
{{ScreenThumb|King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Character Select.png|width=200|Character select}}
 
{{ScreenThumb|King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Gameplay.png|width=200|Gameplay}}
 
{{ScreenThumb|King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Gameplay.png|width=200|Gameplay}}
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The game is a team fighting game featuring characters from multiple [[SNK]] franchises. This entry adds increased maneuverability techniques, replacing the forward hop with the ability to run, replacing the dodge mechanic of the previous games with a new roll, and adding short hops. Command normals have been removed, most projectile attacks have been weakened, the inputs for many special moves have been simplified, throw escapes have been added, and "Super Desperation" moves have been introduced. Most of the sprites for returning characters have been remade or revised, some of the teams were rearranged, and several new characters were added (and some characters were removed). The new characters from other SNK games are Kasumi Todoh from ''Art of Fighting 3'' and a new Boss Team consisting of Geese Howard from ''[[Fatal Fury]]'', Wolfgang Krauser from ''[[Fatal Fury 2]]'', and Mr. Big from ''[[Art of Fighting]]''. The new original characters are Leona, an amnesiac raised by Heidern who is linked to the Orochi plotline, Mature and Vice, Rugal's secretaries who are now playable, and Chizuru and Goenitz, the two bosses.
+
The game is a team fighting game featuring characters from multiple [[SNK]] franchises. This entry adds increased maneuverability techniques, replacing the forward hop with the ability to run, replacing the dodge mechanic of the previous games with a new roll, and adding short hops. Command normals have been removed, most projectile attacks have been weakened, the inputs for many special moves have been simplified, throw escapes have been added, and "Super Desperation" moves have been introduced. Most of the sprites for returning characters have been redrawn or revised, some of the teams were rearranged, and several new characters were added (and some characters were removed). The new characters from other SNK games are Kasumi Todoh from ''Art of Fighting 3'' and a new Boss Team consisting of Geese Howard from ''[[Fatal Fury]]'', Wolfgang Krauser from ''[[Fatal Fury 2]]'', and Mr. Big from ''[[Art of Fighting]]''. The new original characters are Leona, an amnesiac raised by Heidern who is linked to the Orochi plotline, Mature and Vice, Rugal's secretaries who are now playable, and Chizuru and Goenitz, the two bosses.
  
 
As before, the characters are divided into multiple teams of three. The player can freely mix and match characters from different teams to form a custom team, but choosing characters from one of the canonical teams gives special endings in the arcade modes. Before each match, players arrange the team members in any order. For the first round of the match, the first member of each team fights. When a character is defeated, the following member of the team takes his or her place in the next round, while the character on the opposing team continues to fight and has a small portion of health restored (more health is restored if the round is completed faster). The other members of the team stand in the background of the stage during the fight. The match ends when all three members of either team are defeated.
 
As before, the characters are divided into multiple teams of three. The player can freely mix and match characters from different teams to form a custom team, but choosing characters from one of the canonical teams gives special endings in the arcade modes. Before each match, players arrange the team members in any order. For the first round of the match, the first member of each team fights. When a character is defeated, the following member of the team takes his or her place in the next round, while the character on the opposing team continues to fight and has a small portion of health restored (more health is restored if the round is completed faster). The other members of the team stand in the background of the stage during the fight. The match ends when all three members of either team are defeated.
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Characters move with {{left}} and {{right}} and crouch with {{down}}. They backstep or run with {{left}} {{left}} or {{right}} {{right}}. They jump upward with {{up}} and jump behind and ahead with {{upleft}} or {{upright}}. They can perform short hops by pressing {{upleft}}, {{up}}, or {{upright}}, followed by {{down}} quickly. They can "super jump" (a faster and farther jump, trailed by afterimages) by pressing {{down}}, then {{upleft}}, {{up}}, or {{upright}} quickly. Characters can perform a weak punch with {{X}}, a strong punch with {{A}}, a weak kick with {{Y}}, or a strong kick with {{B}}. Each character has a set of basic, unique, and special moves that can be performed by the player with a specific series of button inputs.
 
Characters move with {{left}} and {{right}} and crouch with {{down}}. They backstep or run with {{left}} {{left}} or {{right}} {{right}}. They jump upward with {{up}} and jump behind and ahead with {{upleft}} or {{upright}}. They can perform short hops by pressing {{upleft}}, {{up}}, or {{upright}}, followed by {{down}} quickly. They can "super jump" (a faster and farther jump, trailed by afterimages) by pressing {{down}}, then {{upleft}}, {{up}}, or {{upright}} quickly. Characters can perform a weak punch with {{X}}, a strong punch with {{A}}, a weak kick with {{Y}}, or a strong kick with {{B}}. Each character has a set of basic, unique, and special moves that can be performed by the player with a specific series of button inputs.
  
−
Characters have knockdown attacks, which knock the opponent over, that are performed with {{A}}+{{B}}. This can be done while standing or jumping. Characters can perform evasive rolls with {{X}}+{{Y}} to roll backward or {{right}}+{{X}}+{{Y}} to roll forward (or {{left}}+{{X}}+{{Y}} when facing left). Characters are invulnerable during most of the roll, though they can still be grabbed and thrown. They can roll through opponents when they are close. When stunned or grabbed, characters can call a team member in for a special assist attack with {{X}}+{{Y}}+{{A}} if they are visible in frame in that moment.
+
Characters have knockdown attacks, which knock the opponent over, that are performed with {{A}}+{{B}}. This can be done while standing or jumping. Characters can perform evasive rolls with {{X}}+{{Y}} to roll backward or {{right}}+{{X}}+{{Y}} to roll forward (or {{left}}+{{X}}+{{Y}} when facing left). Characters are invulnerable during most of the roll, though they can still be grabbed and thrown. They can roll through opponents when they are close.
 +
 
 +
When stunned or grabbed, characters can call a team member in for a special assist attack with {{X}}+{{Y}}+{{A}} if they are visible in frame in that moment. Most team members have a 50% chance of helping, but some always help or never help, depending on which character the player is controlling. For example, Ryo always helps his sister Yuri, but Kyo never helps his rival Iori.
  
 
Blocking can be done by holding the D-Pad in the opposite direction of the opponent while standing or crouching. Throws can be performed by holding {{left}} or {{right}} and pressing a strong punch or kick button when next to the opponent. Different characters have different throws available to them. Throws cannot be blocked, but they can be escaped by pressing {{X}}+{{Y}} at the start of the grab.
 
Blocking can be done by holding the D-Pad in the opposite direction of the opponent while standing or crouching. Throws can be performed by holding {{left}} or {{right}} and pressing a strong punch or kick button when next to the opponent. Different characters have different throws available to them. Throws cannot be blocked, but they can be escaped by pressing {{X}}+{{Y}} at the start of the grab.
  
−
Each player has a power gauge at the bottom of the screen which charges when the character is blocking or taking attacks. It can also be filled manually, although it leaves the character vulnerable to an attack, by holding {{X}}+{{Y}}+{{A}}, which can only be done while standing. Once the power gauge is filled, the player's basic attacks become stronger for a short period as the gauge drains. When the characters are in this state, players can also perform a Desperation move that immediately consumes the entire power gauge. Characters can also perform a Desperation move when the health gauge is nearly empty and flashing red. If both requirements are fulfilled (the character's health gauge is flashing red and the character's power gauge is full), the character can perform a more powerful Super Desperation move instead.
+
Each player has a power gauge at the bottom of the screen which charges when the character is blocking or taking attacks. It can also be filled manually, although it leaves the character vulnerable to an attack, by holding {{X}}+{{Y}}+{{A}}, which can only be done while standing. Once the power gauge is filled, the character enters "MAX mode," and basic attacks become stronger for a short period as the gauge drains. When characters are in this state, players can perform a Desperation move that immediately consumes the entire power gauge. Characters can perform Desperation moves indefinitely when the health gauge is nearly empty and flashing red. If both requirements are fulfilled (the character's health gauge is flashing red and the character's power gauge is full), the character can perform a Super Desperation move instead that does more damage. Characters in "MAX mode" can also cancel into a roll while blocking, but this costs the contents of the power gauge.
  
 
Characters can taunt with {{X}}+{{A}}, which is a short animation during which the character is vulnerable to attack. Taunting an opponent can reduce their power gauge, slow down their manual charging, and stop them from reaching the maximum level.
 
Characters can taunt with {{X}}+{{A}}, which is a short animation during which the character is vulnerable to attack. Taunting an opponent can reduce their power gauge, slow down their manual charging, and stop them from reaching the maximum level.
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The game has the following modes:
 
The game has the following modes:
  
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*'''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 Play:''' A single-player mode where the player forms a team of any three characters 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.
+
*'''Team Vs:''' A two-player mode where each player forms a team of any three characters 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 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.
 
*'''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).
+
*'''Survivor:''' A single-player mode where the player chooses a character and then fights one-on-three 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).
+
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). This is the last ''King of Fighters'' game where the player fights every team in the single-player mode.
  
 
===Characters===
 
===Characters===
 
{{MoveListNote|legend=NeoGeo}}
 
{{MoveListNote|legend=NeoGeo}}
−
In the options, players can set the function of the extra buttons on the Saturn control pad under the "Play Style" setting. Normal leaves them unassigned (which is the default setting), Simple assigns special mechanics to them that usually take multiple button presses (equivalent to the default assignments in ''[[King of Fighters '95]]''), and Special assigns special moves to them (which vary by character). The assignments for the Simple control scheme are {{Z}} for evasive rolls, {{C}} for knockdown attacks, {{L}} for taunting, and {{R}} to power up or for a support attack.
+
In the options, players can set the function of the extra buttons on the Saturn control pad under the "Play Style" setting. Normal leaves them unassigned (which is the default setting), Simple assigns special mechanics to them that usually take multiple button presses (similar to the default assignments in ''[[King of Fighters '95]]''), and Special assigns special moves to them (which vary by character). The assignments for the Simple control scheme are {{Z}} for evasive rolls, {{C}} for knockdown attacks, {{L}} for taunting, and {{R}} to power up or for a support attack.
 
====Shujinkou Team====
 
====Shujinkou Team====
 
A Japanese team consisting of Kyo Kusanagi, the main character of the Orochi Saga, and his allies, who have banded together again to fight Goenitz.
 
A Japanese team consisting of Kyo Kusanagi, the main character of the Orochi Saga, and his allies, who have banded together again to fight Goenitz.
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}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
−
{{MoveListRow | Ura 108 Shiki Orochi Nagi | {{down}} {{downleft}} {{HCF}} {{punch}} | Kyo holds a hand into the air and foments a flame while {{punch}} is held. When the button is released, he swipes his hand down, igniting the air around him, and slides forward was surrounded in flames.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Ura 108 Shiki Orochi Nagi | {{down}} {{downleft}} {{HCF}} {{punch}} | Kyo holds a hand into the air and foments a flame while {{punch}} is held. When the button is released, he swipes his hand down, igniting the air around him, and slides forward while surrounded in flames.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
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}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
−
{{MoveListRow | Spinning Knee Drop | {{left}}+{{HP}} or {{right}}+{{HP}} in midair (close) | Benimaru grabs and knees his opponent to the ground.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Spinning Knee Drop | {{left}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}} or {{right}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}} in midair (close) | Benimaru grabs and knees his opponent to the ground.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
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{{MoveListRow | Chou Ousoto Gari<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{HCF}} {{LK}} (close) | Daimon grabs and trips his opponent.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Chou Ousoto Gari<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{HCF}} {{LK}} (close) | Daimon grabs and trips his opponent.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Chou Ukemi<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{QCB}} {{kick}} | Daimon rolls forwards. He rolls farther when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Chou Ukemi<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{QCB}} {{kick}} | Daimon rolls forwards. He rolls farther when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 +
}}
 +
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 +
{{MoveListRow | Dodge | {{HP}}+{{LK}}+{{HK}} | Daimon dodges an attack.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
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{{MoveListRow | Ko Ou Ken<br>(Special {{R}}) | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ko Ou Ken<br>(Special {{R}}) | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Kohou<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Kohou<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | 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}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Mouko Raijin Gou | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | Ryo slides forward with an uppercut that can hit multiple times.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Mouko Raijin Gou | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | Ryo slides forward with an uppercut that can hit multiple times. He slides slightly further when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hien Shippu Kyaku<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{HCB}} {{kick}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hien Shippu Kyaku<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{HCB}} {{kick}} | 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}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Kyokugen Ryu Ranbu Ken<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCF}} {{HP}} (close) | Ryo does a combo of three quick punches that knock his opponent over.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Kyokugen Ryu Ranbu Ken<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCF}} {{HP}} (close) | Ryo does a combo of three quick punches that knocks his opponent over.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
 
{{MoveListRow | Haoh Shoukou Ken | {{right}} {{HCF}} {{punch}} | Ryo channels and throws a large fireball from both hands. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Haoh Shoukou Ken | {{right}} {{HCF}} {{punch}} | Ryo channels and throws a large fireball from both hands. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Ryuuko Ranbu | {{down}} {{downright}} {{HCB}} {{punch}} (close) | Ryo rushes forward and unleashes a flurry of punches and kicks, then finishes with a Kohou.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Ryuuko Ranbu | {{down}} {{downright}} {{HCB}} {{punch}} | Ryo rushes forward and unleashes a flurry of punches and kicks, then finishes with a Kohou.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
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{{MoveListRow | Ryuu Ga<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | Robert jumps into the air while performing an uppercut. He ascends higher when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ryuu Ga<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | Robert jumps into the air while performing an uppercut. He ascends higher when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hien Ryuu Jin Kyaku | {{QCB}} {{kick}} in midair | Robert dive kicks diagonally downwards. He travels a longer distance when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hien Ryuu Jin Kyaku | {{QCB}} {{kick}} in midair | Robert dive kicks diagonally downwards. He travels a longer distance when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Hien Shippu Kyaku<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{HCB}} {{kick}} | 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}}.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Hien Shippu Kyaku<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{HCB}} {{kick}} | Robert leaps ahead with multiple rotating kicks, which knock down his opponent on impact. He kicks two times when the move is performed with {{LK}} and four times when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Kyokugen Ryu Ranbu Kyaku<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCF}} {{HK}} (close) | Robert does a combo of four quick kicks that knock his opponent over.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Kyokugen Ryu Ranbu Kyaku<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCF}} {{HK}} (close) | Robert does a combo of four quick kicks that knock his opponent over.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
 
{{MoveListRow | Haoh Shoukou Ken | {{right}} {{HCF}} {{punch}} | Robert channels and throws a large fireball from both hands. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Haoh Shoukou Ken | {{right}} {{HCF}} {{punch}} | Robert channels and throws a large fireball from both hands. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Ryuuko Ranbu | {{down}} {{downright}} {{HCB}} {{punch}} (close) | Robert rushes forward and unleashes a flurry of punches and kicks, then finishes with a Ryuu Ga.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Ryuuko Ranbu | {{down}} {{downright}} {{HCB}} {{punch}} | Robert rushes forward and unleashes a flurry of punches and kicks, then finishes with a Ryuu Ga.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
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}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 +
{{MoveListRow | Dodge | {{HP}}+{{LK}}+{{HK}} | Daimon dodges an attack.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Death Lake Driver | {{left}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}}, {{right}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}}, or {{down}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}} in midair (close) | Clark grabs and throws his opponent to the ground.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Death Lake Driver | {{left}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}}, {{right}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}}, or {{down}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}} in midair (close) | Clark grabs and throws his opponent to the ground.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
−
{{MoveListRow | Ultra Argentine Back Breaker | {{HCB}} {{HCB}} {{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.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Ultra Argentine Back Breaker | {{HCB}} {{HCB}} {{HP}} (close) | Clark tosses his opponent high into the air and catches them with a backbreaker three times, then slams the opponent into the ground.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
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{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListRow | Sankaku Tobi | {{upright}} when jumping onto the edge of the screen | Athena can jump off the edges of the screen.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Sankaku Tobi | {{upright}} when jumping onto the edge of the screen | Athena can jump off the edges of the screen.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Psychic Shoot | {{left}}+{{HP}} or {{right}}+{{HP}} in midair (close) | Athena grabs and throws her opponent in midair.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Psychic Shoot | {{left}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}} or {{right}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}} in midair (close) | Athena grabs and throws her opponent in midair.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
−
{{MoveListRow | Shining Crystal Bit | {{left}} {{HCB}} {{punch}} | Athena hovers in the air and channels psychic energy while orbs revolve around her. If the player presses {{QCB}} {{punch}} during the move, Athena points forward and shoots a powerful projectile across the screen.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Shining Crystal Bit | {{left}} {{HCB}} {{punch}} | Athena hovers in the air and channels psychic energy while orbs revolve around her. The move can be canceled by pressing {{LP}}+{{HP}}+{{LK}}+{{HK}}. If the player presses {{QCB}} {{punch}} during the move, Athena points forward and shoots an energy orb across the screen (Crystal Shoot). She throws the orb straight ahead with {{LP}} or at an upward angle with {{HP}}.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
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| desc=The master of Athena and Kensou and a master of various styles of kung fu, though he fights primarily with drunken boxing.
 
| desc=The master of Athena and Kensou and a master of various styles of kung fu, though he fights primarily with drunken boxing.
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
−
{{MoveListRow | Hyoutan Geki<br>(Special {{L}} for {{LP}}<br>and Special {{R}} for {{HP}}) | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | 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}}.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Hyoutan Geki Jaku<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{QCB}} {{LP}} | Chin whips a gourd through the air in front of him.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Ryuu Rin Hou Rai<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | 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}}.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Hyoutan Geki Kyou<br>(Special {{R}}) | {{QCB}} {{HP}} | Chin whips a gourd through the air in front of him twice, once high and once low.}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Ryuu Rin Hou Rai<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | Chin leaps through the air with a rolling body attack. He stumbles forward with multiple spinning elbow strikes before leaping when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Suikan Kan Ou | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | Chin leaps forward with a falling body attack.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Suikan Kan Ou | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | Chin leaps forward with a falling body attack.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Kaiten Tekikuu Totsu Ken<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{HCF}} {{kick}} | Chin rolls along the ground, then does an upward hand strike that knocks his opponent over.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Kaiten Tekikuu Totsu Ken<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{HCF}} {{kick}} | Chin rolls along the ground, then does an upward hand strike that knocks his opponent over.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Bugetsu Sui | {{QCB}} {{kick}} | 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 {{up}}+{{LK}}, cartwheel backward with {{up}}+{{HK}}, or roll forward with an upward hand strike Kaiten Tekikuu Totsu Ken with {{HCF}} {{kick}}.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Bugetsu Sui | {{QCB}} {{kick}} | 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 (Ryuu Ja Hanhou) with {{up}}+{{LK}}, cartwheel backward (Rigyo Hanhou) with {{up}}+{{HK}}, or roll forward with an upward hand strike (Kaiten Tekikuu Totsu Ken) with {{HCF}} {{kick}}. Or he can stand back up by pressing {{LP}}+{{HP}}+{{LK}}+{{HK}}.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
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{{MoveListRow | Han Getsu Zan<br>(Special {{R}}) | {{QCB}} {{kick}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Han Getsu Zan<br>(Special {{R}}) | {{QCB}} {{kick}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Kuusa Jin<br>(Special {{C}}) | Hold {{down}} for 2 seconds, then {{up}}+{{punch}} | Kim spins diagonally upward while kicking. He ascends higher and hits an additional time when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Kuusa Jin<br>(Special {{C}}) | Hold {{down}} for 2 seconds, then {{up}}+{{punch}} | Kim spins diagonally upward while kicking. He ascends higher and hits an additional time when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Hien Zan<br>(Special {{Z}}) | Hold {{down}} for 2 seconds, then {{up}}+{{kick}} | 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}}.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Hien Zan<br>(Special {{Z}}) | Hold {{down}} for 2 seconds, then {{up}}+{{kick}} | Kim flips backward, slicing through the air with a circular kick, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He ascends higher and hits additional times when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hishou Kyaku | {{QCF}} {{kick}} in midair | Kim dives diagonally downward while stomping repeatedly.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hishou Kyaku | {{QCF}} {{kick}} in midair | Kim dives diagonally downward while stomping repeatedly.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ryuusei Ranku<br>(Special {{L}}) | Hold {{left}} for 2 seconds, then {{right}}+{{kick}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ryuusei Ranku<br>(Special {{L}}) | Hold {{left}} for 2 seconds, then {{right}}+{{kick}} | 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}}.}}
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| desc=A very small criminal who fights with two clawed hands (resembling the horror movie villain Freddy Krueger).
 
| desc=A very small criminal who fights with two clawed hands (resembling the horror movie villain Freddy Krueger).
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
−
{{MoveListRow | Kaiten Hien Zuki<br>(Special {{R}}) | Hold {{left}} for 2 seconds, then {{right}}+{{punch}} | Choi runs forward, then jumps while slashing his claws when he is near his opponent.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Kaiten Hien Zuki<br>(Special {{R}}) | Hold {{left}} for 2 seconds, then {{right}}+{{punch}} | Choi runs forward, then jumps while slashing his claws when he is near his opponent. He jumps higher when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Tatsumaki Shippuu Zan<br>(Special {{Z}}) | Hold {{down}} for 2 seconds, then {{up}}+{{punch}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Tatsumaki Shippuu Zan<br>(Special {{Z}}) | Hold {{down}} for 2 seconds, then {{up}}+{{punch}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hishou Kuuretsu Zan | Hold {{down}} for 2 seconds, then {{up}}+{{kick}} | Choi jumps to the back edge of the screen. He can jump to the front edge of the screen by pressing {{upright}} instead of {{up}}. If the player continues to hold {{kick}} after performing the move, Choi immediately does a dive attack with his claws after hitting the wall.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hishou Kuuretsu Zan | Hold {{down}} for 2 seconds, then {{up}}+{{kick}} | Choi jumps to the back edge of the screen. He can jump to the front edge of the screen by pressing {{upright}} instead of {{up}}. If the player continues to hold {{kick}} after performing the move, Choi immediately does a dive attack with his claws after hitting the wall.}}
Line 432: Line 439:
 
{{MoveListRow | Ka Chou Sen<br>(Special {{R}}) | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | Mai throws her folding fan at her opponent. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ka Chou Sen<br>(Special {{R}}) | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | Mai throws her folding fan at her opponent. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ryuu En Bu<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | Mai twirls around, whipping her opponent with the sash around her waist, which is set alight and knocks her opponent over on impact.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ryuu En Bu<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | Mai twirls around, whipping her opponent with the sash around her waist, which is set alight and knocks her opponent over on impact.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Hishou Ryuu'en Jin<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{DPF}} {{kick}} | Mai does a backflip while trailed by the sash around her waist, which is set alight and knocks her opponent over on impact.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Hishou Ryuu'en Jin<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{DPF}} {{kick}} | Mai does a backflip while tailed by the sash around her waist, which is set alight and knocks her opponent over on impact. She flips higher when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hissatsu Shinobi Bachi<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCF}} {{kick}} | Mai performs a cartwheel, then drops to the ground with an elbow strike. The move travels more distance when it is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hissatsu Shinobi Bachi<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCF}} {{kick}} | Mai performs a cartwheel, then drops to the ground with an elbow strike. The move travels more distance when it is performed with {{HK}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Musasabi no Mai (Chijou) | {{HCB}} {{punch}} | Mai jumps to the back edge of the screen. She can jump to the front edge of the screen by pressing {{upright}} instead of {{up}}. If the player continues to hold {{punch}} 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).}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Musasabi no Mai (Chijou) | {{HCB}} {{punch}} | Mai jumps to the back edge of the screen. She can jump to the front edge of the screen by pressing {{upright}} instead of {{up}}. If the player continues to hold {{punch}} 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Musasabi no Mai (Kuuchuu) | {{QCB}} {{punch}} in midair | Mai dives diagonally downward with her arms spread out. The move covers more horizontal distance when it is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Musasabi no Mai (Kuuchuu) | {{QCB}} {{punch}} in midair | Mai dives diagonally downward with her arms spread out. The move covers more horizontal distance when it is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListRow | Sankaku Tobi | {{upright}} when jumping onto the edge of the screen | Mai can jump off the edges of the screen.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Sankaku Tobi | {{upright}} when jumping onto the edge of the screen | Mai can jump off the edges of the screen.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Yume Zakura | {{left}}+{{HK}}, {{right}}+{{HK}}, or {{down}}+{{HK}} in midair (close) | Mai grabs and stomps her opponent to the ground.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Yume Zakura | {{left}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}}, {{right}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}}, or {{down}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}} in midair (close) | Mai grabs and stomps her opponent to the ground.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
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| desc=A bar owner who fights with her own kick-heavy take on Muay Thai.
 
| desc=A bar owner who fights with her own kick-heavy take on Muay Thai.
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
−
{{MoveListRow | Venom Strike<br>(Special {{R}}) | {{QCF}} {{kick}} | King performs a jumping kick, lobbing a fireball through the air. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Venom Strike<br>(Special {{R}}) | {{QCF}} {{kick}} | King performs a jumping kick, lobbing a fireball through the air. The projectile moves faster and further when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Double Strike | {{QCF}} {{QCF}} {{kick}} | King performs two jumping kicks in quick succession, lobbing two fireballs through the air. The projectiles move faster when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Double Strike | {{QCF}} {{QCF}} {{kick}} | King performs two jumping kicks in quick succession, lobbing two fireballs through the air. The projectiles move faster and further when the move is performed with {{HK}}. The second projectile always travels the full width of the screen.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Trap Shot | {{DPF}} {{kick}} | King performs a somersault. If it hits, she follows up with a barrage of fast kicks.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Trap Shot | {{DPF}} {{kick}} | King performs a somersault kick. If it hits, she follows up with a barrage of fast kicks.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Tornado Kick<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{HCB}} {{kick}} | King climbs into the air with multiple rotating kicks. She kicks more times when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Tornado Kick<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{HCB}} {{kick}} | King climbs into the air with multiple rotating kicks. She kicks more times when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Mirage Kick<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{HCF}} {{kick}} | King runs forward, then hits her opponent with alternating high and low kicks.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Mirage Kick<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{HCF}} {{kick}} | King runs forward, then hits her opponent with alternating high and low kicks.}}
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| portrait={{sprite | King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png | crop_width=224 | crop_height=224 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=1792}}
 
| portrait={{sprite | King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png | crop_width=224 | crop_height=224 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=1792}}
 
| sprite={{sprite | King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Iori Yagami.gif}}
 
| sprite={{sprite | King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Iori Yagami.gif}}
−
| desc=The last heir to the Yagami clan, formerly known as the Yasakani Clan, one of the three clans that sealed away Orochi, and the rival of Kyo. His family possesses the Yasakani Jewel (八尺瓊曲玉).
+
| desc=The last heir to the Yagami clan (formerly known as the Yasakani Clan) one of the three clans that sealed away Orochi, and the rival of Kyo. His clan possesses the Yasakani Jewel (八尺瓊曲玉).
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
 
{{MoveListRow | 108 Shiki Yami Barai<br>(Special {{R}}) | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | Iori throws fiery purple sparks across the ground. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | 108 Shiki Yami Barai<br>(Special {{R}}) | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | Iori throws fiery purple sparks across the ground. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
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| portrait={{sprite | King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png | crop_width=224 | crop_height=224 | crop_x=672 | crop_y=1120}}
 
| portrait={{sprite | King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png | crop_width=224 | crop_height=224 | crop_x=672 | crop_y=1120}}
 
| sprite={{sprite | King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Chizuru Kagura.gif}}
 
| sprite={{sprite | King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Chizuru Kagura.gif}}
−
| desc=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. Her family possesses the Yata Mirror (八汰鏡). 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.
+
| desc=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. Her clan possesses the Yata Mirror (八汰鏡). She fights with dance-like motions and open-handed strikes and can create mirror images of herself. She is harmed if one of her mirror images is attacked. She is the sub-boss of the game.
 
{{MoveListTable |
 
{{MoveListTable |
 
{{MoveListRow | 108 Katsu Tamayura no Shitsune<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCF}} {{punch}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | 108 Katsu Tamayura no Shitsune<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCF}} {{punch}} | 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}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | 100 Katso Tenjin no Kotowari<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | Chizuru creates an illusion that spins upward with her arms outstretched.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | 100 Katso Tenjin no Kotowari<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | Chizuru creates a mirror image that spins upward with her arms outstretched.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | 212 Katsu Shinsoku no Noroti<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{HCB}} {{punch}} or {{kick}} | Chizuru creates an illusion that runs forward and hits her opponent with an upward palm strike when it is performed with {{punch}}, which knocks the opponent back, or a lateral palm swipe when it is performed with {{kick}}, which knocks the opponent down. It can be followed up by a jumping strike with {{QCB}} {{punch}} or by a downward palm strike with {{QCB}} {{kick}}. She takes the place of the illusion after the move is complete.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | 212 Katsu Shinsoku no Noroti<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{HCB}} {{punch}} or {{kick}} | Chizuru creates a mirror image that runs forward and hits her opponent with an upward palm strike when it is performed with {{punch}}, which knocks the opponent back, or a lateral palm swipe when it is performed with {{kick}}, which knocks the opponent down. It can be followed up by a jumping strike with {{QCB}} {{punch}} or by a downward palm strike with {{QCB}} {{kick}}. She takes the place of the mirror image after the move is complete when the move is performed with {{HP}} or {{HK}}.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
−
{{MoveListRow | Ichimen Ikatsu San Rai no Fui Jin | {{QCB}} {{QCB}} {{kick}} | Chizuru creates an illusion that twirls forward with her arms outstretched.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Ichimen Ikatsu San Rai no Fui Jin | {{QCB}} {{QCB}} {{kick}} | Chizuru creates a mirror image that twirls forward with her arms outstretched.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Ichimen 85 Katsu Reigi no Ishizue | {{down}} {{downleft}} {{HCF}} {{punch}} | Chizuru slides forward with a low punch. If it hits, the opponent glows and cannot perform special moves for a duration.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Ichimen 85 Katsu Reigi no Ishizue | {{down}} {{downleft}} {{HCF}} {{punch}} | Chizuru slides forward with a low strike. If it hits, the opponent glows and cannot perform special moves for a duration.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
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| portrait={{sprite | King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png | crop_width=224 | crop_height=256 | crop_x=672 | crop_y=1792}}
 
| portrait={{sprite | King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png | crop_width=224 | crop_height=256 | crop_x=672 | crop_y=1792}}
 
| sprite={{sprite | King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Goenitz.gif}}
 
| sprite={{sprite | King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Goenitz.gif}}
−
| desc=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.
+
| desc=A priest of the Hakkesshu, a cult of Orochi's devoted followers. He seeks to revive his master. It is revealed that he is the one who gave Rugal a small portion of Orochi's blood in ''[[The King of Fighters '95]]''. He is the final boss of the game.
 
{{MoveListTable |
 
{{MoveListTable |
 
{{MoveListRow | Wanpyou Tokobuse<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{QCB}} {{LP}} | Goenitz snaps his fingers and creates multiple curved blades of wind that shred through the air high in front of him.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Wanpyou Tokobuse<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{QCB}} {{LP}} | Goenitz snaps his fingers and creates multiple curved blades of wind that shred through the air high in front of him.}}

Revision as of 04:37, 2 April 2024

n/a

KingOfFighters96 title.png

The King of Fighters '96
System(s): Sega Saturn
Publisher: SNK
Developer:
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)[3], Action[4]

















Number of players: 1-2
Official in-game languages:
  • 日本語
  • English
  • Español
  • Português
    • Release Date RRP Code
    Sega Saturn
    JP     		¥5,800 (5,974)5,800e[5] T-3108G
    Sega Rating: All Ages
    Sega Saturn
    JP
    (1MB RAM Set)     		¥7,800 (8,034)7,800e[5] T-3109G
    Sega Rating: All Ages
    Non-Sega versions

    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. Each clan possesses one of the Three Sacred Treasures, ancient relics (based on the Imperial Regalia of Japan) that were used to seal Orochi. 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

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Character Select.png

    Character select

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Gameplay.png

    Gameplay

    The game is a team fighting game featuring characters from multiple SNK franchises. This entry adds increased maneuverability techniques, replacing the forward hop with the ability to run, replacing the dodge mechanic of the previous games with a new roll, and adding short hops. Command normals have been removed, most projectile attacks have been weakened, the inputs for many special moves have been simplified, throw escapes have been added, and "Super Desperation" moves have been introduced. Most of the sprites for returning characters have been redrawn or revised, some of the teams were rearranged, and several new characters were added (and some characters were removed). The new characters from other SNK games are Kasumi Todoh from Art of Fighting 3 and a new Boss Team consisting of Geese Howard from Fatal Fury, Wolfgang Krauser from Fatal Fury 2, and Mr. Big from Art of Fighting. The new original characters are Leona, an amnesiac raised by Heidern who is linked to the Orochi plotline, Mature and Vice, Rugal's secretaries who are now playable, and Chizuru and Goenitz, the two bosses.

    As before, the characters are divided into multiple teams of three. The player can freely mix and match characters from different teams to form a custom team, but choosing characters from one of the canonical teams gives special endings in the arcade modes. Before each match, players arrange the team members in any order. For the first round of the match, the first member of each team fights. When a character is defeated, the following member of the team takes his or her place in the next round, while the character on the opposing team continues to fight and has a small portion of health restored (more health is restored if the round is completed faster). The other members of the team stand in the background of the stage during the fight. The match ends when all three members of either team are defeated.

    Characters move with Left and Right and crouch with Down. They backstep or run with Left Left or Right Right. They jump upward with Up and jump behind and ahead with Up-left or Up-right. They can perform short hops by pressing Up-left, Up, or Up-right, followed by Down quickly. They can "super jump" (a faster and farther jump, trailed by afterimages) by pressing Down, then Up-left, Up, or Up-right quickly. Characters can perform a weak punch with X, a strong punch with A, a weak kick with Y, or a strong kick with B. Each character has a set of basic, unique, and special moves that can be performed by the player with a specific series of button inputs.

    Characters have knockdown attacks, which knock the opponent over, that are performed with A+B. This can be done while standing or jumping. Characters can perform evasive rolls with X+Y to roll backward or Right+X+Y to roll forward (or Left+X+Y when facing left). Characters are invulnerable during most of the roll, though they can still be grabbed and thrown. They can roll through opponents when they are close.

    When stunned or grabbed, characters can call a team member in for a special assist attack with X+Y+A if they are visible in frame in that moment. Most team members have a 50% chance of helping, but some always help or never help, depending on which character the player is controlling. For example, Ryo always helps his sister Yuri, but Kyo never helps his rival Iori.

    Blocking can be done by holding the D-Pad in the opposite direction of the opponent while standing or crouching. Throws can be performed by holding Left or Right and pressing a strong punch or kick button when next to the opponent. Different characters have different throws available to them. Throws cannot be blocked, but they can be escaped by pressing X+Y at the start of the grab.

    Each player has a power gauge at the bottom of the screen which charges when the character is blocking or taking attacks. It can also be filled manually, although it leaves the character vulnerable to an attack, by holding X+Y+A, which can only be done while standing. Once the power gauge is filled, the character enters "MAX mode," and basic attacks become stronger for a short period as the gauge drains. When characters are in this state, players can perform a Desperation move that immediately consumes the entire power gauge. Characters can perform Desperation moves indefinitely when the health gauge is nearly empty and flashing red. If both requirements are fulfilled (the character's health gauge is flashing red and the character's power gauge is full), the character can perform a Super Desperation move instead that does more damage. Characters in "MAX mode" can also cancel into a roll while blocking, but this costs the contents of the power gauge.

    Characters can taunt with X+A, which is a short animation during which the character is vulnerable to attack. Taunting an opponent can reduce their power gauge, slow down their manual charging, and stop them from reaching the maximum level.

    Modes

    The game has the following modes:

    • Team Play: A single-player mode where the player forms a team of any three characters 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 forms a team of any three characters 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 one-on-three 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). This is the last King of Fighters game where the player fights every team in the single-player mode.

    Characters

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

    P Any punch button
     LP  Light punch
     HP  Hard punch
    K Any kick button
     LK  Light kick
     HK  Hard kick

    In the options, players can set the function of the extra buttons on the Saturn control pad under the "Play Style" setting. Normal leaves them unassigned (which is the default setting), Simple assigns special mechanics to them that usually take multiple button presses (similar to the default assignments in King of Fighters '95), and Special assigns special moves to them (which vary by character). The assignments for the Simple control scheme are Z for evasive rolls, C for knockdown attacks, L for taunting, and R to power up or for a support attack.

    Shujinkou Team

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

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Kyo Kusanagi.gif




    		 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. His clan possesses the Kusanagi Sword (草薙の剣). 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 Down Down-right Right  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 Down Down-right Right P or an elbow smash (127 Shiki: Yano Sabi) with Right Down-right Down Down-left Left 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 Down Down-right Right  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 Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P or a jumping attack (402 Shiki: Batsu Yomi) with Right+P.
    100 Shiki Oni Yaki
    (Special Z)     		Right Down Down-right 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 Down Down-left Left P Kyo launches his opponent into the air with an uppercut.
    75 Shiki Kai
    (Special C)     		Down Down-right Right 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
    (Special L)     		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left 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
    (Special R)     		Left Down Down-left 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 Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right 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 while surrounded in flames.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Benimaru Nikaido.gif




    		 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
    (Special R)     		Down Down-right Right 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
    (Special C)     		Down Down-right Right K Benimaru does a rapid knee strike. If the player presses Down Up+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
    (Special L)     		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left 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
    (Special Z)     		Right Down Down-right K Benimaru backflips into the air with an electrically charged kick that knocks his opponent over.
    Benimaru Coleda Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  HP  (close) Benimaru grabs and electrocutes his opponent.
    Move list (Command normals)
    Name Command Description
    Spinning Knee Drop Left+ HP / HK  or Right+ HP / HK  in midair (close) Benimaru grabs and knees his opponent to the ground.
    Move list (Desperation moves)
    Name Command Description
    Raikou Ken Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right 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.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Goro Daimon.gif




    		 Goro Daimon
    A former Olympic gold medalist judoka who has geokinetic abilities.
    Move list (Special moves)
    Name Command Description
    Jirai Shin
    (Special R)     		Right Down Down-right  LP 
    Right Down Down-right  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
    (Special L)     		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right  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 Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  LP  (close) Daimon grabs an airborne opponent, then slams them against the ground.
    Kiri Kabu Gaeshi Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  HP  (close) Daimon grabs a grounded opponent, then slams them against the ground.
    Chou Ousoto Gari
    (Special C)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  LK  (close) Daimon grabs and trips his opponent.
    Chou Ukemi
    (Special Z)     		Down Down-left Left K Daimon rolls forwards. He rolls farther when the move is performed with  HK .
    Move list (Command normals)
    Name Command Description
    Dodge  HP + LK + HK  Daimon dodges an attack.
    Move list (Desperation moves)
    Name Command Description
    Jigoku Gokuraku Otoshi Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right Down-right Down Down-left Left 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.

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Terry Bogard.gif




    		 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
    (Special L)     		Down Down-left Left 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
    (Special R)     		Down Down-right Right 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
    (Special Z)     		Right Down Down-right 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  HK .
    Rising Tackle
    (Special C)     		Right Down Down-right 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 Down Down-left Left 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 Down Down-left Left Down-left Right P Terry punches the ground, causing a geyser of energy to erupt from the ground in front of him.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Andy Bogard.gif




    		 Andy Bogard
    Terry's brother and a ninja of the Shiranui-ryuu style.
    Move list (Special moves)
    Name Command Description
    Hishou Ken
    (Special R)     		Down Down-left Left 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
    (Special Z)     		Right Down Down-right 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
    (Special C)     		Hold Down-left for 2 seconds, then Right+P Andy charges forward while ramming with his shoulder and knee. If the player presses Down Down-right Right P during the move, Andy follows up with an additional strike that knocks the opponent back.
    Kuuhaa Dan
    (Special L)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right 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 Down Down-right Right 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 Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  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 Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K Andy launches off the ground with his hands, flying at his opponent with a flaming kick.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Joe Higashi.gif




    		 Joe Higashi
    A Muay Thai kickboxing champion and a good friend of the Bogard brothers.
    Move list (Special moves)
    Name Command Description
    Hurricane Upper
    (Special R)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right 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 Down Down-right Right P during the move, Joe follows up with a downward elbow strike.
    Slash Kick
    (Special C)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right 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
    (Special Z)     		Right Down Down-right K Joe rises diagonally upward with a knee strike. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HK .
    Ougon no Kakato
    (Special R)     		Down Down-left Left K Joe jumps forward while doing a rolling kick that can hit multiple times.
    Move list (Desperation moves)
    Name Command Description
    Screw Upper Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right 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.

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Ryo Sakazaki.gif




    		 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
    (Special R)     		Down Down-right Right 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
    (Special Z)     		Right Down Down-right 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 Down Down-left Left P Ryo slides forward with an uppercut that can hit multiple times. He slides slightly further when the move is performed with  HP .
    Hien Shippu Kyaku
    (Special C)     		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left 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
    (Special L)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  HP  (close) Ryo does a combo of three quick punches that knocks his opponent over.
    Move list (Desperation moves)
    Name Command Description
    Haoh Shoukou Ken Right Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P Ryo channels and throws a large fireball from both hands. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP .
    Ryuuko Ranbu Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P Ryo rushes forward and unleashes a flurry of punches and kicks, then finishes with a Kohou.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Robert Garcia.gif




    		 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
    (Special R)     		Down Down-right Right 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
    (Special Z)     		Right Down Down-right P Robert jumps into the air while performing an uppercut. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP .
    Hien Ryuu Jin Kyaku Down Down-left Left K in midair Robert dive kicks diagonally downwards. He travels a longer distance when the move is performed with  HK .
    Hien Shippu Kyaku
    (Special C)     		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left K Robert leaps ahead with multiple rotating kicks, which knock down his opponent on impact. He kicks two times when the move is performed with  LK  and four times when the move is performed with  HK .
    Kyokugen Ryu Ranbu Kyaku
    (Special L)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  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 Right Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P Robert channels and throws a large fireball from both hands. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP .
    Ryuuko Ranbu Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P Robert rushes forward and unleashes a flurry of punches and kicks, then finishes with a Ryuu Ga.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Yuri Sakazaki.gif




    		 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
    (Special R)     		Down Down-right Right 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
    (Special C)     		Down Down-right Right 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 Right Down Down-right 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 Right Down Down-right P again.
    Hien Senpuu Ken
    (Special Z)     		Down Down-left Left 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
    (Special L)     		Down Down-left Left 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 Right Down-right Down Down-left Left  HP  Yuri rushes forward and grabs her opponent, then slaps them repeatedly.
    Move list (Command normals)
    Name Command Description
    Tsubame Otoshi Left+ HP / HK , Right+ HP / HK , or Down+ HP / HK  in midair (close) Yuri grabs and slams her opponent to the ground.
    Move list (Desperation moves)
    Name Command Description
    Haoh Shokou Ken Right Left Down-left Down Down-right Right 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 Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left 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.

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Leona.gif




    		 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
    (Special L)     		Hold Left for 2 seconds, then Right+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
    (Special Z)     		Hold Down for 2 seconds, then Up+P Leona slashes the air around her in a circle, which knocks down her opponent on impact.
    Grand Saber
    (Special R)     		Hold Left for 2 seconds, then Right+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 Right+ HK .
    X-Calibur
    (Special C)     		Hold Down for 2 seconds, then Up+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 Left+ HP / HK  or Right+ 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 Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P in midair Leona dives down with a hand chop, then cuts back into the air, forming a V-shaped explosion.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 95 Saturn, Sprites, Ralf Jones.gif




    		 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
    (Special R)     		PPPPP Ralf does a series of rapid upward punches that toss his opponent back. He can move forward with Right while doing this.
    Gatling Attack
    (Special Z)     		Hold Left for 2 seconds, then Right+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
    (Special C)     		Hold Down for 2 seconds, then Up+P or
    Down Down-right Right P in midair     		Ralf jumps in the air, then drops down with an explosive dive punch.
    Ralf Kick
    (Special L)     		Hold Left for 2 seconds, then Right+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 Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  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 Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left 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 Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left K Ralf runs forward and pushes down his opponent, then pummels them with a series of explosive punches.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Clark Still.gif




    		 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
    (Special R)     		PPPPP Clark does a series of rapid upward punches that toss his opponent back. He can move forward with Right while doing this.
    Napalm Stretch Right Down Down-right 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 Down Down-right Right P after he hits the ground with the opponent.
    Rolling Cradler
    (Special C)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right 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 Down Down-right Right P after he slams the opponent.
    Frankensteiner
    (Special Z)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  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 Down Down-right Right P after he turns around and throws the opponent.
    Super Argentine Back Breaker
    (Special L)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  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 Down Down-right Right P after he turns around and throws the opponent.
    Move list (Command normals)
    Name Command Description
    Dodge  HP + LK + HK  Daimon dodges an attack.
    Death Lake Driver Left+ HP / HK , Right+ HP / HK , or Down+ 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 Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right Down-right Down Down-left Left  HP  (close) Clark tosses his opponent high into the air and catches them with a backbreaker three times, then slams the opponent into the ground.

    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.

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Athena Asamiya.gif




    		 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
    (Special R)     		Down Down-left Left P Athena generates and throws a ball of psychic energy. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP .
    Phoenix Arrow Down Down-left Left 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
    (Special Z)     		Right Down Down-right 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
    (Special C)     		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left 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
    (Special L)     		Down Down-right Right 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 Up-right when jumping onto the edge of the screen Athena can jump off the edges of the screen.
    Psychic Shoot Left+ HP / HK  or Right+ HP / HK  in midair (close) Athena grabs and throws her opponent in midair.
    Move list (Desperation moves)
    Name Command Description
    Shining Crystal Bit Left Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P Athena hovers in the air and channels psychic energy while orbs revolve around her. The move can be canceled by pressing  LP + HP + LK + HK . If the player presses Down Down-left Left P during the move, Athena points forward and shoots an energy orb across the screen (Crystal Shoot). She throws the orb straight ahead with  LP  or at an upward angle with  HP .
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Sie Kensou.gif




    		 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
    (Special R)     		Down Down-left Left P Kensou generates and throws a ball of psychic energy. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP .
    Ryuu Ren Ga Chi
    (Special C)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  LP  Kensou leaps forward with an elbow strike. If it hits, he follows up with a knee strike and a turning kick while moving forward.
    Ryuu Ren Ga Gen
    (Special L)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  HP  Kensou leaps forward with an elbow strike. If it hits, he follows up with a knee strike and a turning kick while moving diagonally up into the air.
    Ryuu Sou Geki Down Down-left Left P in midair Kensou dives diagonally downwards with a palm strike that hits multiple times.
    Ryuu Gaku Sai
    (Special Z)     		Left Down Down-left 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 Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left  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 Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left  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.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Chin Gentsai.gif




    		 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 Jaku
    (Special L)     		Down Down-left Left  LP  Chin whips a gourd through the air in front of him.
    Hyoutan Geki Kyou
    (Special R)     		Down Down-left Left  HP  Chin whips a gourd through the air in front of him twice, once high and once low.
    Ryuu Rin Hou Rai
    (Special C)     		Right Down Down-right P Chin leaps through the air with a rolling body attack. He stumbles forward with multiple spinning elbow strikes before leaping when the move is performed with  HP .
    Suikan Kan Ou Down Down-right Right P Chin leaps forward with a falling body attack.
    Kaiten Tekikuu Totsu Ken
    (Special Z)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K Chin rolls along the ground, then does an upward hand strike that knocks his opponent over.
    Bugetsu Sui Down Down-left Left 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 (Ryuu Ja Hanhou) with Up+ LK , cartwheel backward (Rigyo Hanhou) with Up+ HK , or roll forward with an upward hand strike (Kaiten Tekikuu Totsu Ken) with Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K. Or he can stand back up by pressing  LP + HP + LK + HK .
    Move list (Desperation moves)
    Name Command Description
    Gou Ran Enpou Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right 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.

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Kim Kaphwan.gif




    		 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
    (Special R)     		Down Down-left Left 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
    (Special C)     		Hold Down for 2 seconds, then Up+P Kim spins diagonally upward while kicking. He ascends higher and hits an additional time when the move is performed with  HP .
    Hien Zan
    (Special Z)     		Hold Down for 2 seconds, then Up+K Kim flips backward, slicing through the air with a circular kick, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He ascends higher and hits additional times when the move is performed with  HK .
    Hishou Kyaku Down Down-right Right K in midair Kim dives diagonally downward while stomping repeatedly.
    Ryuusei Ranku
    (Special L)     		Hold Left for 2 seconds, then Right+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 Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K Kim performs a series of rapid kicks, then finishes with a backflip kick. This move can be performed in midair.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Chang Koehan.gif




    		 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
    (Special C)     		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 Left or Right while doing this.
    Tekkyuu Funsai Geki
    (Special R)     		Hold Left for 2 seconds, then Right+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
    (Special Z)     		Hold Down for 2 seconds, then Up+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
    (Special L)     		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right  HP  Chang grabs and slams his opponent back and forth multiple times.
    Move list (Desperation moves)
    Name Command Description
    Tekkyuu Dai Bousou Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left 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.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Choi Bounge.gif




    		 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
    (Special R)     		Hold Left for 2 seconds, then Right+P Choi runs forward, then jumps while slashing his claws when he is near his opponent. He jumps higher when the move is performed with  HP .
    Tatsumaki Shippuu Zan
    (Special Z)     		Hold Down for 2 seconds, then Up+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 Down for 2 seconds, then Up+K Choi jumps to the back edge of the screen. He can jump to the front edge of the screen by pressing Up-right instead of Up. 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
    (Special C)     		Down Down-right Right K in midair Choi dives diagonally downward, then stomps repeatedly on his opponent.
    Senpuu Hien Shitotsu
    (Special L)     		Hold Left for 2 seconds, then Right+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 Up-right 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 Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P Choi spins on one leg, producing a large tornado that covers the full height of the screen. He can move with Left or Right while doing this.

    Shin Josei Kakutouka Team

    A new Women Fighters Team, with Kasumi Todoh (from Art of Fighting 3) taking the place of Yuri Sakazaki, who joined her brother's team.

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Kasumi Todoh.gif




    		 Kasumi Todoh
    An Aikido student who is searching for her father, Ryuhaku Todoh (from the first Art of Fighting game).
    Move list (Special moves)
    Name Command Description
    Kasame Ate
    (Special R)     		Down Down-right Right 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
    (Special L)     		Down Down-left Left P Kasumi uppercuts her opponent into the air.
    Messhin Mutho
    (Special Z)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  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
    (Special C)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  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 Right Down-right Down Down-left Left  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 Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right 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.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Mai Shiranui.gif




    		 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
    (Special R)     		Down Down-right Right P Mai throws her folding fan at her opponent. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP .
    Ryuu En Bu
    (Special Z)     		Down Down-left Left P Mai twirls around, whipping her opponent with the sash around her waist, which is set alight and knocks her opponent over on impact.
    Hishou Ryuu'en Jin
    (Special C)     		Right Down Down-right K Mai does a backflip while tailed by the sash around her waist, which is set alight and knocks her opponent over on impact. She flips higher when the move is performed with  HK .
    Hissatsu Shinobi Bachi
    (Special L)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right 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) Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P Mai jumps to the back edge of the screen. She can jump to the front edge of the screen by pressing Up-right instead of Up. 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 .
    Musasabi no Mai (Kuuchuu) Down Down-left Left 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 Up-right when jumping onto the edge of the screen Mai can jump off the edges of the screen.
    Yume Zakura Left+ HP / HK , Right+ HP / HK , or Down+ HP / HK  in midair (close) Mai grabs and stomps her opponent to the ground.
    Move list (Desperation moves)
    Name Command Description
    Chou Hissatu Shinobibachi Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K Mai does a cartwheel kick, then flies through the air with an elbow strike while flames radiate from her body.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, King.gif




    		 King
    A bar owner who fights with her own kick-heavy take on Muay Thai.
    Move list (Special moves)
    Name Command Description
    Venom Strike
    (Special R)     		Down Down-right Right K King performs a jumping kick, lobbing a fireball through the air. The projectile moves faster and further when the move is performed with  HK .
    Double Strike Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right K King performs two jumping kicks in quick succession, lobbing two fireballs through the air. The projectiles move faster and further when the move is performed with  HK . The second projectile always travels the full width of the screen.
    Trap Shot Right Down Down-right K King performs a somersault kick. If it hits, she follows up with a barrage of fast kicks.
    Tornado Kick
    (Special C)     		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left K King climbs into the air with multiple rotating kicks. She kicks more times when the move is performed with  HK .
    Mirage Kick
    (Special Z)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K King runs forward, then hits her opponent with alternating high and low kicks.
    Surprise Rose
    (Special L)     		Right Down Down-right P King rolls into the air, then comes down with a stomping kick that can hit multiple times. The move covers more horizontal distance when it is performed with  HP .
    Move list (Desperation moves)
    Name Command Description
    Illusion Dance Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left 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.

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Iori Yagami.gif




    		 Iori Yagami
    The last heir to the Yagami clan (formerly known as the Yasakani Clan) one of the three clans that sealed away Orochi, and the rival of Kyo. His clan possesses the Yasakani Jewel (八尺瓊曲玉).
    Move list (Special moves)
    Name Command Description
    108 Shiki Yami Barai
    (Special R)     		Down Down-right Right P Iori throws fiery purple sparks across the ground. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP .
    127 Shiki Aoi Hana Down Down-left Left 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
    (Special Z)     		Right Down Down-right 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
    (Special C)     		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left 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
    (Special L)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  HP  (close) Iori grabs and shoves his opponent away.
    Move list (Desperation moves)
    Name Command Description
    Kin 1211 Shiki Ya Otome Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P Iori dashes forward and performs a series of hand strikes, ending by grabbing the opponent and creating an explosion of purple fire.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Mature.gif




    		 Mature
    A member of the Hakkesshu brotherhood who was assigned to watch over Rugal, taking the role of one of his assistants. She has now been ordered by Goenitz to assist Iori to ensure that he progresses to the championship finals. She fights with her sharp nails.
    Move list (Special moves)
    Name Command Description
    Despair
    (Special Z)     		Down Down-right Right 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
    (Special R)     		Down Down-left Left 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
    (Special C)     		Down Down-left Left K Mature runs forward, then does a lateral hand swipe when she is near her opponent.
    Decider
    (Special L)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right 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 Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K Mature charges across the screen, tackling the opponent into the wall, which causes a pillar of dark energy to explode.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Vice.gif




    		 Vice
    A member of the Hakkesshu brotherhood who was assigned to watch over Rugal, taking the role of one of his assistants. She has now been ordered by Goenitz to assist Iori to ensure that he progresses to the championship finals. She fights with her monstrous strength.
    Move list (Special moves)
    Name Command Description
    Outrage
    (Special R)     		Down Down-left Left K Vice kicks rapidly in front of her.
    Ravenous
    (Special Z)     		Down Down-left Left K in midair Vice kicks rapidly in front of her while falling.
    Decider
    (Special L)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right 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
    (Special C)     		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right  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 Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right Down-right Down Down-left Left  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.

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Geese Howard.gif




    		 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
    (Special R)     		Down Down-right Right  LP  Geese swipes his hand upward, creating an arc of ki energy in front of him.
    Double Reppuuken
    (Special L)     		Down Down-right Right  HP  Geese steps forward with two alternating hand swipes, each creating an arc of ki energy in front of him. The second swipe knocks down the opponent on impact.
    Shippuuken Down Down-left Left P in midair Geese throws a fireball a short distance diagonally downward.
    Hishou Nichirin Zan
    (Special Z)     		Right Down Down-right 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
    (Special C)     		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P Geese dashes forward with an elbow ram, the two alternating palm strikes, which knocks down the opponent on impact.
    Atemi Nage Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K Geese catches a jumping attack from his opponent and counters with a throw.
    Atemi Uchi Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K Geese catches a standing attack from his opponent and counters with a throw.
    Move list (Desperation moves)
    Name Command Description
    Raging Storm Down-left Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Down-right P Geese ducks and calls energy spikes around him.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Wolfgang Krauser.gif




    		 Wolfgang Krauser
    Geese's half-brother, who enters the tournament to test his strength.
    Move list (Special moves)
    Name Command Description
    High Blitz Ball
    (Special L)     		Down Down-left Left P Wolfgang throws a high fireball. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP .
    Low Blitz Ball
    (Special R)     		Down Down-left Left K Wolfgang throws a low fireball. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HK .
    Leg Tomahawk Down Down-right Right K Wolfgang leaps forward with a rolling kick. The move covers a wider arc when it is performed with  HK .
    Kaiser Kick
    (Special Z)     		Right Down Down-right K Wolfgang jumps with a dropkick.
    Kaiser Double Sobat
    (Special C)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K Wolfgang hops forward with two quick kicks.
    Lift Up Blow Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right P (close) Wolfgang grabs his opponent, then jumps back with a suplex.
    Move list (Desperation moves)
    Name Command Description
    Kaiser Wave Right Left Down-left Down Down-right Right 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 .
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Mr Big.gif




    		 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
    (Special R)     		Down Down-right Right 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
    (Special C)     		Right Down Down-right 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
    (Special Z)     		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left 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
    (Special L)     		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left 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 Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right 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.

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Chizuru Kagura.gif




    		 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. Her clan possesses the Yata Mirror (八汰鏡). She fights with dance-like motions and open-handed strikes and can create mirror images of herself. She is harmed if one of her mirror images is attacked. She is the sub-boss of the game.
    Move list
    Name Command Description
    108 Katsu Tamayura no Shitsune
    (Special L)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right 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
    (Special C)     		Right Down Down-right P Chizuru creates a mirror image that spins upward with her arms outstretched.
    212 Katsu Shinsoku no Noroti
    (Special Z)     		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P or K Chizuru creates a mirror image 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 Down Down-left Left P or by a downward palm strike with Down Down-left Left K. She takes the place of the mirror image after the move is complete when the move is performed with  HP  or  HK .
    Move list (Desperation moves)
    Name Command Description
    Ichimen Ikatsu San Rai no Fui Jin Down Down-left Left Down Down-left Left K Chizuru creates a mirror image that twirls forward with her arms outstretched.
    Ichimen 85 Katsu Reigi no Ishizue Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P Chizuru slides forward with a low strike. If it hits, the opponent glows and cannot perform special moves for a duration.
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Characters.png
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Goenitz.gif




    		 Goenitz
    A priest of the Hakkesshu, a cult of Orochi's devoted followers. He seeks to revive his master. It is revealed that he is the one who gave Rugal a small portion of Orochi's blood in The King of Fighters '95. He is the final boss of the game.
    Move list
    Name Command Description
    Wanpyou Tokobuse
    (Special C)     		Down Down-left Left  LP  Goenitz snaps his fingers and creates multiple curved blades of wind that shred through the air high in front of him.
    Wanpyou Mametsu
    (Special Z)     		Down Down-left Left  HP  Goenitz snaps his fingers and creates multiple curved blades of wind that shred through the air low in front of him.
    Hyouga
    (Special L)     		Down Down-left Left K Goenitz vanishes in a gust of wind, then reappears while dashing low and forward when the move is performed with  LK  or falling forward from the air when the move is performed with  HK .
    Yonokaze
    (Special R)     		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right 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 Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P Goenitz dashes forward with a series of hand swipes, then grabs and strangles his opponent before throwing them.
    Yamidoukoku Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right Down-right Down Down-left Left  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.

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Shujinkou Team.png

    Shujinkou Team
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Shujinkou Team.png

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Garou Densetsu Team.png

    Garou Densetsu Team
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Garou Densetsu Team.png

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Ryuuko no Ken Team.png

    Ryuuko no Ken Team
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Ryuuko no Ken Team.png

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Shin Ikari Team.png

    Shin Ikari Team
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Shin Ikari Team.png

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Psycho Soldier Team.png

    Psycho Soldier Team
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Psycho Soldier Team.png

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Kim Team.png

    Kim Team
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Kim Team.png

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Shin Josei Kakutouka Team.png

    Shin Josei Kakutouka Team
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Shin Josei Kakutouka Team.png

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Yagami Team.png

    Yagami Team
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Yagami Team.png

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Boss Team.png

    Boss Team
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Boss Team.png

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Kagura Stadium 1.png

    The Finals at Kagura Stadium
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Kagura Stadium 1.png

    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Kagura Stadium 2.png

    The Ruins of Kagura Stadium
    King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Stages, Kagura Stadium 2.png

    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
    KOF96 Saturn JP SSEnding.pdf
    [6]
    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

    Logo-pdf.svg
    Print advert in Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) #1996-20: "1996-20 (1996-11-22)" (1996-11-08)
    Logo-pdf.svg
    Logo-pdf.svg
    Print advert in Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) #1996-21: "1996-21 (1996-12-13)" (1996-11-22)
    Logo-pdf.svg
    Logo-pdf.svg
    Print advert in Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) #1996-22: "1996-22 (1996-12-27)" (1996-12-13)
    Logo-pdf.svg
    Logo-pdf.svg
    Print advert in Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) #1997-01: "1997-01 (1997-01-17)" (1996-12-27)
    Logo-pdf.svg

    Physical scans

    Sega Retro Average 
    Publication Score Source
    {{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
    Based on
    0 review
    Sega Retro Average 
    Publication Version Score
    Computer & Video Games (UK)
    100
    		[7]
    Famitsu (JP) NTSC-J
    78
    		[8]
    GameFan (US)
    90
    		[9]
    MAN!AC (DE) NTSC-J
    85
    		[10]
    Saturn Fan (JP) NTSC-J
    76
    		[11]
    Saturn Fan (JP) NTSC-J
    76
    		[12]
    Saturn Power (UK) NTSC-J
    90
    		[13]
    Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) NTSC-J
    90
    		[14]
    Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) NTSC-J
    87
    		[15]
    Sega Saturn
    		 86
    Based on
    9 reviews

    The King of Fighters '96

    Saturn, JP
    KoF96 Saturn JP Box Back.jpgKoF96 Saturn JP Box Front.jpg
    Cover
    TheKOF96 Saturn JP Spinecard.jpg
    Spinecard
    TheKOF96 Saturn JP Disc.jpg
    Disc
    TheKOF96 SS jp manual.pdf
    Manual
    Saturn, JP (1MB RAM Set)
    KoF96 Saturn JP Box Back 1MBpack.jpgNospine-small.pngKoF96 Saturn JP Box Front 1MBpack.jpg
    Cover
    TheKOF96 Saturn JP Disc Pack.jpg
    Disc

    Technical information

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

    References

    1. ↑ http://gdri.smspower.org/wiki/index.php/TUG
    2. ↑ http://gdri.smspower.org/wiki/index.php/Yumekobo
    3. ↑ File:KoF96 Saturn JP Box Back.jpg
    4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 https://sega.jp/fb/segahard/ss/soft_licensee2.html (Wayback Machine: 2020-03-20 23:05)
    5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 Sega Saturn Magazine, "1996-21 (1996-12-13)" (JP; 1996-11-22), page 11
    6. ↑ File:KOF96 Saturn JP SSEnding.pdf
    7. ↑ Computer & Video Games, "May 1997" (UK; 1997-04-11), page 12
    8. ↑ Famitsu, "1997-01-10,17" (JP; 1996-12-27), page 1
    9. ↑ GameFan, "Volume 5, Issue 4: April 1997" (US; 1997-xx-xx), page 26
    10. ↑ MAN!AC, "03/97" (DE; 1997-02-12), page 42
    11. ↑ Saturn Fan, "1997 No. 1" (JP; 1996-12-27), page 199
    12. ↑ Saturn Fan, "1997 No. 4" (JP; 1997-02-14), page 110
    13. ↑ Saturn Power, "August 1997" (UK; 1997-06-25), page 86
    14. ↑ Sega Saturn Magazine, "1997-01 (1997-01-17)" (JP; 1996-12-27), page 231
    15. ↑ Sega Saturn Magazine, "Readers rating final data" (JP; 2000-03), page 11


    The King of Fighters '96

    KingOfFighters96 title.png

    Main page | Comparisons | Hidden content | Magazine articles | Reception | Technical information | Bootlegs


    Books: The King of Fighters '96 Koushiki Guide Book for Saturn (1997)

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    The King of Fighters games for Sega systems or published by Sega
    Sega Saturn
    		 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)
    Sega Dreamcast
    		 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)
    Arcade
    		 The King of Fighters Neowave (2004) | The King of Fighters XI (2005)
    Sony PlayStation 4
    		 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) | NeoGeo Battle Coliseum (2005) | SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy (2018)
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