Difference between revisions of "The King of Fighters '97"

From Sega Retro
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Characters backstep or run with {{left}} {{left}} or {{right}} {{right}}. 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 evasive rolls with {{A}}+{{B}} to roll backward or {{right}}+{{A}}+{{B}} to roll forward (or {{left}}+{{A}}+{{B}} 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.
 
Characters backstep or run with {{left}} {{left}} or {{right}} {{right}}. 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 evasive rolls with {{A}}+{{B}} to roll backward or {{right}}+{{A}}+{{B}} to roll forward (or {{left}}+{{A}}+{{B}} 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.
  
−
The power gauge is filled by attacking the opponent with normal attacks (but not throws) or by performing special moves (regardless of whether they connect with the opponent). When the gauge is filled, it is kept in stock and reset, up to three times. A character can use one stock of the gauge to perform a Desperation move or to enter "MAX mode" by pressing {{X}}+{{A}}+{{B}}, increasing the damage dealt by the character and reducing the damage taken from the opponent for a duration. Performing a Desperation move while in "MAX mode" performs a more powerful Super Desperation move.
+
The power gauge is filled by attacking the opponent with normal attacks (but not throws) or by performing special moves (regardless of whether they connect with the opponent). When the gauge is filled, it is kept in stock and reset, up to three times. A character can use one stock of the gauge to perform a Desperation move or to enter "MAX mode" by pressing {{X}}+{{A}}+{{B}}, increasing the damage dealt by the character and reducing the damage taken from the opponent for a duration. Performing a Desperation move while in "MAX mode" performs a more powerful Super Desperation move (which can be done any number of times until the "MAX mode" state ends).
 
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{{InfoRow
 
{{InfoRow
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{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
 
{{MoveListRow | Raijin Ken<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | Benimaru jabs in front of him with an electrically charged fist, which hits up to three times and knocks down the opponent on impact. He punches straight ahead with {{LP}} or at an upward angle with {{HP}}. This move can be performed in midair (which is done at a downward angle regardless of the button used).}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Raijin Ken<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | Benimaru jabs in front of him with an electrically charged fist, which hits up to three times and knocks down the opponent on impact. He punches straight ahead with {{LP}} or at an upward angle with {{HP}}. This move can be performed in midair (which is done at a downward angle regardless of the button used).}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Iai Geri | {{QCF}} {{kick}} | Benimaru does a rapid knee strike. If the player presses {{down}} {{up}}+{{kick}} 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.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Iai Geri | {{QCF}} {{kick}} | Benimaru does a rapid knee strike. If the player presses {{down}} {{up}}+{{kick}} during the move, Benimaru follows up with a hopping side kick, then backflips into the air with an electrically charged kick that knocks his opponent over.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Shinku Kakate Goma<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{HCB}} {{punch}} | Benimaru stands on one hand and spins his body around, kicking with both hands, knocking his opponent far back on impact.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Shinku Kakate Goma<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{HCB}} {{punch}} | Benimaru stands on one hand and spins his body around, kicking with both hands, knocking his opponent far back on impact.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Super Inazuma Kick | {{DPF}} {{kick}} | Benimaru backflips into the air with an electrically charged kick that knocks his opponent over.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Super Inazuma Kick | {{DPF}} {{kick}} | Benimaru backflips into the air with an electrically charged kick that knocks his opponent over.}}
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{{MoveListRow | Chou Ousoto Gari | {{DPF}} {{kick}} (close) | Daimon grabs and trips his opponent.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Chou Ousoto Gari | {{DPF}} {{kick}} (close) | Daimon grabs and trips his opponent.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Chou Ukemi | {{QCB}} {{kick}} | Daimon rolls forwards. He rolls farther when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Chou Ukemi | {{QCB}} {{kick}} | Daimon rolls forwards. He rolls farther when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Nekko Gaeshi | {{QCF}} {{kick}} | Daimon holds a defensive posture. If he is attacked while doing this, he grabs his opponent, turns around, and rolls into the ground with them.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
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{{MoveListRow | Hishou Ken<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hishou Ken<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Shouryuu Dan | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Shouryuu Dan | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | 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}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Zan'ei Ken<br>(Special {{C}}) | Hold {{downleft}} for 2 seconds, then {{right}}+{{punch}} | Andy charges forward while ramming with his shoulder and knee. If the player presses {{QCF}} {{punch}} during the move, Andy follows up with an additional strike that knocks the opponent back.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Zan'ei Ken<br>(Special {{C}}) | Hold {{downleft}} for 1 second, then {{right}}+{{punch}} | Andy charges forward while ramming with his shoulder and knee. If the player presses {{QCF}} {{punch}} during the move, Andy follows up with an additional strike that knocks the opponent back.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Kuuhaa Dan | {{HCF}} {{kick}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Kuuhaa Dan | {{HCF}} {{kick}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Gen'ei Shiranui | {{QCF}} {{kick}} 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 {{punch}} or a rolling kick with {{kick}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Gen'ei Shiranui | {{QCF}} {{kick}} 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 {{punch}} or a rolling kick with {{kick}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Geki Heki Haisui Shou<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCF}} {{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.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Geki Heki Haisui Shou<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCF}} {{punch}} | 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.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
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{{MoveListRow | Mouko Rai Jin Setsu<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{QCF}} {{kick}} | Ryo leaps forward with a hand chop that knocks down his opponent on impact. He leaps further when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Mouko Rai Jin Setsu<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{QCF}} {{kick}} | Ryo leaps forward with a hand chop that knocks down his opponent on impact. He leaps further when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hien Shippu Kyaku | {{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 | {{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 | {{HCF}} {{HP}} (close) | Ryo does a combo of three quick punches that knocks his opponent over.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Kyokugen Ryu Ranbu Ken | {{HCF}} {{punch}} (close) | Ryo does a combo of three quick punches that knocks his opponent over.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
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{{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 {{Z}}) | {{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 | Hien Shippu Kyaku<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{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 | {{HCF}} {{HK}} (close) | Robert does a combo of four quick kicks that knock his opponent over.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Kyokugen Ryu Ranbu Kyaku | {{HCF}} {{kick}} (close) | Robert does a combo of four quick kicks that knock his opponent over.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
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{{MoveListRow | Ko Ou Ken <br>(Special {{C}})| {{QCF}} {{punch}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ko Ou Ken <br>(Special {{C}})| {{QCF}} {{punch}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Rai'oh Ken<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{QCF}} {{kick}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Rai'oh Ken<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{QCF}} {{kick}} | 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}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Kuu Ga | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | 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 {{DPF}} {{punch}} again.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Kuu Ga | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | Yuri jumps into the air while performing an uppercut, which knocks down her opponent on impact. When the move is performed with {{HP}}, she ascends higher, and the move can be followed up by a second jumping uppercut (Ura Kuu Ga) with {{DPF}} {{punch}} again.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hien Senpuu Ken | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | Yuri leaps forward with a flying punch that knocks her opponent over. She leaps farther when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hien Senpuu Ken | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | Yuri leaps forward with a flying punch that knocks her opponent over. She leaps farther when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hien Senpuu Kyaku | {{QCB}} {{kick}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hien Senpuu Kyaku | {{QCB}} {{kick}} | 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}}.}}
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{{MoveListRow | Baltic Launcher<br>(Special {{L}}) | Hold {{left}} for 2 seconds, then {{right}}+{{punch}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Baltic Launcher<br>(Special {{L}}) | Hold {{left}} for 2 seconds, then {{right}}+{{punch}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Moon Slasher<br>(Special {{C}}) | Hold {{down}} for 2 seconds, then {{up}}+{{punch}} | Leona slashes the air around her in a circle, which knocks down her opponent on impact.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Moon Slasher<br>(Special {{C}}) | Hold {{down}} for 2 seconds, then {{up}}+{{punch}} | Leona slashes the air around her in a circle, which knocks down her opponent on impact.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Grand Saber<br>(Special {{Z}}) | Hold {{left}} for 2 seconds, then {{right}}+{{kick}} | 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}}.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Grand Saber<br>(Special {{Z}}) | Hold {{left}} for 2 seconds, then {{right}}+{{kick}} | Leona runs forward while low to the ground, then slashes with her hand, knocking the opponent over on impact. When the move is performed with {{HK}}, it can be followed up by a somersault kick (Gliding Buster) with {{right}}+{{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | I-Slasher | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | Leona flips backwards, landing in a crouched position, then throws a crescent-shaped projectile that returns to her like a boomerang. Leona cannot perform another action until the projectile returns to her. The projectile travels further when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | I-Slasher | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | Leona flips backwards, landing in a crouched position, then throws a crescent-shaped projectile that returns to her like a boomerang. Leona cannot perform another action until the projectile returns to her. The projectile travels further when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | X-Calibur | Hold {{down}} for 2 seconds, then {{up}}+{{kick}} | Leona flips into the air, then slashes her hands in an X pattern on the way down.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | X-Calibur | Hold {{down}} for 2 seconds, then {{up}}+{{kick}} | Leona flips into the air, then slashes her hands in an X pattern on the way down.}}
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{{MoveListRow | Phoenix Arrow<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{QCB}} {{punch}} 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Phoenix Arrow<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{QCB}} {{punch}} 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Psycho Sword | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | 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.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Psycho Sword | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | 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.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Nu Psycho Reflector<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCB}} {{kick}} | Athena hops forward, 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}}.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Nu Psycho Reflector<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCB}} {{kick}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Psycho Teleport | {{QCF}} {{kick}} | Athena runs forward at high speed. She can be hit while doing this but can pass through opponents.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Psycho Teleport | {{QCF}} {{kick}} | Athena runs forward at high speed. She can be hit while doing this but can pass through opponents.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Super Psychic Throw | {{HCF}} {{HP}} (close) | Athena psychically throws her opponent into the air.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Super Psychic Throw | {{HCF}} {{HP}} (close) | Athena psychically throws her opponent into the air.}}
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{{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}}/{{HK}}, {{right}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}}, or {{down}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}} in midair (close) | Athena grabs and throws her opponent in midair.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Psychic Shoot | {{left}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}}, {{right}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}}, or {{down}}+{{HP}}/{{HK}} in midair (close) | Athena grabs and throws her opponent in midair.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Phoenix Bomb | {{down}}+{{HK}} in midair | Athena drops back-first at her opponent. She bounces off her opponent if she hits.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Phoenix Bomb | {{down}}+{{LK}} in midair | Athena drops back-first at her opponent. She bounces off her opponent if she hits.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Renkan Tai | {{right}}+{{LK}} | Athena hops forward with a high kick.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Renkan Tai | {{right}}+{{LK}} | Athena hops forward with a high kick.}}
 
}}
 
}}
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{{MoveListRow | Chou Kyuu Dan<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | Kensou generates and throws a ball of psychic energy. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Chou Kyuu Dan<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | Kensou generates and throws a ball of psychic energy. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ryu Renda | {{DPF}} {{repeat|{{punch}}}} | Kensou leans forward on one leg while swinging repeatedly with alternating arms.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ryu Renda | {{DPF}} {{repeat|{{punch}}}} | Kensou leans forward on one leg while swinging repeatedly with alternating arms.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Ryuu Ren Ga Chi<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCF}} {{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.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Ryuu Ren Ga Chi<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCF}} {{LP}} | Kensou leaps forward with an elbow strike, then follows up with a knee strike and a turning kick while moving forward.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Ryuu Ren Ga Gen | {{HCF}} {{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.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Ryuu Ren Ga Gen | {{HCF}} {{HP}} | Kensou leaps forward with an elbow strike, then follows up with a knee strike and a turning kick while moving diagonally up into the air.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ryuu Sou Geki | {{QCB}} {{punch}} in midair | Kensou dives diagonally downwards with a palm strike that hits multiple times.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ryuu Sou Geki | {{QCB}} {{punch}} in midair | Kensou dives diagonally downwards with a palm strike that hits multiple times.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ryuu Gaku Sai<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{RDP}} {{kick}} | 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}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ryuu Gaku Sai<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{RDP}} {{kick}} | 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}}.}}
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{{MoveListRow | Ryuu Rin Hou Rai<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{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 | Ryuu Rin Hou Rai<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{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 | {{HCF}} {{kick}} | Chin rolls along the ground, then does an upward hand strike that knocks his opponent over.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Kaiten Tekikuu Totsu Ken | {{HCF}} {{kick}} | Chin rolls along the ground, then does an upward hand strike that knocks his opponent over. He rolls farther when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Bugetsu Sui<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{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 move with {{left}} or {{right}} or stand back up by pressing {{LP}}+{{HP}}+{{LK}}+{{HK}}.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Bugetsu Sui<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{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 {{right}}+{{kick}}. Or he can move with {{left}} or {{right}} or stand back up by pressing {{LP}}+{{HP}}+{{LK}}+{{HK}}.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
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}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
−
{{MoveListRow | Ichimen Ikatsu San Rai no Fui Jin<br>(Special {{R}}) | {{QCB}} {{QCB}} {{kick}} | Chizuru creates a mirror image that twirls forward with her arms outstretched.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Ichimen Ikatsu San Rai no Fui Jin<br>(Special {{R}}) | {{QCF}} {{QCF}} {{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 strike. 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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{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
 
{{MoveListRow | Ka Chou Sen<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{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 {{C}}) | {{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 | {{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 | {{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. She steps forward slightly when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Hakuro no Mai<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | Mai twirls forward while swinging her fans around her.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hishou Ryuu'en Jin | {{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 | Hishou Ryuu'en Jin | {{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 {{Z}}) | {{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 {{Z}}) | {{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) | Hold {{down}} for 2 seconds, then {{up}}+{{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) | Hold {{down}} for 2 seconds, then {{up}}+{{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 (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}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Hakuro no Mai<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | Mai twirls forward while swinging her fans around her.}}
 
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
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| desc=A fashion designer and the keyboardist for the band C.Y.S. She fights using an acrobatic grappling style.
 
| desc=A fashion designer and the keyboardist for the band C.Y.S. She fights using an acrobatic grappling style.
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
−
{{MoveListRow | Shermie Whip<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{DPF}} {{kick}} | Shermie stands on a hand and rolls backward while kicking through the air in a circle. If it connects, she grabs the opponent with her legs for a takedown, followed by a suplex throw.}}
 
 
{{MoveListRow | Axle Spin Kick<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{QCB}} {{kick}} | Shermie does an axle spin through the air, followed by a crescent kick when she lands. She jumps slightly farther when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Axle Spin Kick<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{QCB}} {{kick}} | Shermie does an axle spin through the air, followed by a crescent kick when she lands. She jumps slightly farther when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Shermie Shoot | {{HCF}} {{kick}} | Shermie rushes forward, then does a handstand on top of her opponent and takes them down with her knees. She runs slightly farther when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Shermie Shoot | {{HCF}} {{kick}} | Shermie rushes forward, then does a handstand on top of her opponent and takes them down with her knees. She runs slightly farther when the move is performed with {{HK}}.}}
 +
{{MoveListRow | Shermie Whip<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{DPF}} {{kick}} (close) | Shermie stands on a hand and rolls backward while kicking through the air in a circle. If it connects, she grabs the opponent with her legs for a takedown, followed by a suplex throw.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Shermie Spiral<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCF}} {{punch}} (close) | Shermie does a handstand on top of her opponent, wraps her legs around their head, then spins their body to the ground.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Shermie Spiral<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{HCF}} {{punch}} (close) | Shermie does a handstand on top of her opponent, wraps her legs around their head, then spins their body to the ground.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
−
{{MoveListRow | Shermie Stand | {{right}}+{{LK}} | Shermie does a front walkover while kicking, which can hit opponents who are crouch blocking=a.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Shermie Stand | {{right}}+{{LK}} | Shermie does a front walkover while kicking, which can hit opponents who are crouch blocking.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Desperation moves |
Line 671: Line 672:
 
{{MoveListRow | Hebi Tsukai Uwadan | {{QCB}} {{HP}} | Ryuji charges his arm. When {{LP}} is released, he performs a fast punch diagonally downwards. The longer the button is held, the more damage the punch does if it connects. The move can be canceled by pressing {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hebi Tsukai Uwadan | {{QCB}} {{HP}} | Ryuji charges his arm. When {{LP}} is released, he performs a fast punch diagonally downwards. The longer the button is held, the more damage the punch does if it connects. The move can be canceled by pressing {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hebi Tsukai Chuudan | {{QCB}} {{LK}} | Ryuji charges his arm. When {{LP}} is released, he performs a fast punch straight ahead. The longer the button is held, the more damage the punch does if it connects. The move can be canceled by pressing {{HK}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Hebi Tsukai Chuudan | {{QCB}} {{LK}} | Ryuji charges his arm. When {{LP}} is released, he performs a fast punch straight ahead. The longer the button is held, the more damage the punch does if it connects. The move can be canceled by pressing {{HK}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Bai Gaeshi | {{QCF}} {{HP}} | Ryuji swings his arm up, which can damage a nearby opponent or grab a projectile out of the air and throw it back toward the caster.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Bai Gaeshi | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | Ryuji swings his arm up, which can damage a nearby opponent or grab a projectile out of the air and throw it back toward the caster.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Suna Kake | {{QCF}} {{HP}} | Ryuji does a high kick that kicks up dust from the ground.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Suna Kake | {{DPF}} {{kick}} | Ryuji does a high kick that kicks up dust from the ground.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Sadomazo<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{HCF}} {{kick}} | Ryuji taunts his opponent. If his opponent attacks him while he is doing this, he counters with a charging punch.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Sadomazo<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{HCF}} {{kick}} | Ryuji taunts his opponent. If his opponent attacks him while he is doing this, he counters with a charging punch.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Badukan Pachiki | {{HCB}} {{right}} {{punch}} | Ryuji grabs and hits his opponent with an explosive headbutt.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Badukan Pachiki | {{HCB}} {{right}} {{punch}} | Ryuji grabs and hits his opponent with an explosive headbutt.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
−
{{MoveListRow | Bussashi | {{right}}+{{LP}} | Ryuji punches downward, which hits up to two times and can attack opponents who are crouch-blocking.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Bussashi | {{right}}+{{LP}} | Ryuji punches downward, which hits up to two times and can attack opponents who are crouch blocking.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Power moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Power moves |
Line 699: Line 700:
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Command normals |
−
{{MoveListRow | Hammer Arc | {{right}}+{{LP}} | Mary hops forward while swinging his fists down.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Hammer Arc | {{right}}+{{LP}} | Mary hops forward while swinging her fists down.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Climbing Arrow | {{downright}}+{{kick}} | Mary does a donkey kick into the air.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Climbing Arrow | {{downright}}+{{LK}} | Mary does a donkey kick into the air.}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Power moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Power moves |
Line 717: Line 718:
 
{{MoveListRow | Shuuten Ren Ha Kon | {{repeat|{{HP}}}} | Billy stabs his cudgel in front of him rapidly.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Shuuten Ren Ha Kon | {{repeat|{{HP}}}} | Billy stabs his cudgel in front of him rapidly.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Senen Satsu Kon<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | Billy jumps into the air while holding his cudgel out.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Senen Satsu Kon<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | Billy jumps into the air while holding his cudgel out.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Sansetsu Kon Chuudan Uchi<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{HCF}} {{punch}} | Billy whips his cudgel in front of him, and it expands across the screen.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Sansetsu Kon Chuudan Uchi<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{HCF}} {{punch}} | Billy whips his cudgel in front of him, and it expands across the screen. He can set the cudgel on fire (Kaen Sansetsu Kon Chuudan Uchi) by pressing {{QCF}} {{punch}} before it is fully extended.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Kyoushuu Hishoukon<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{DPF}} {{kick}} | Billy vaults into the air with his cudgel, then drops back to the ground with a kick.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Kyoushuu Hishoukon<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{DPF}} {{kick}} | Billy vaults into the air with his cudgel, then drops back to the ground with a kick.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ka Ryuu Tsuigeki Kon | {{HCB}} {{LK}} | Billy holds his staff upwards in a defensive stance. If the opponent hits it, Billy responds with a cudgel strike.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Ka Ryuu Tsuigeki Kon | {{HCB}} {{LK}} | Billy holds his staff upwards in a defensive stance. If the opponent hits it, Billy responds with a cudgel strike.}}
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| portrait={{sprite | King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png | crop_width=176 | crop_height=176 | crop_x=704 | crop_y=528}}
 
| portrait={{sprite | King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png | crop_width=176 | crop_height=176 | crop_x=704 | crop_y=528}}
 
| sprite={{sprite | King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Shingo Yabuki.gif}}
 
| sprite={{sprite | King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Shingo Yabuki.gif}}
−
| desc=Kyo Kusanagi's biggest fan, who has imitated his style of dress and his fighting moves. Though he cannot control fire like Kyo can and often messes up or forgets moves (and must consult his notepad), he is good-natured and indefatigable.
+
| desc=Kyo Kusanagi's biggest fan, who has imitated his style of dress and his fighting moves. Though he cannot control fire like Kyo can and often messes up or forgets moves (and must consult his notepad), he is good-natured and indefatigable. His moves uniquely have a chance of landing a "Critical Hit" that does extra damage.
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
 
{{MoveListRow | 114 Shiki: Aragami Mikansei | {{QCF}} {{LP}} | Shingo lunges forward with a hook punch using his following arm.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | 114 Shiki: Aragami Mikansei | {{QCF}} {{LP}} | Shingo lunges forward with a hook punch using his following arm.}}
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{{MoveListRow | Taiyou o Iru Honoo<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | Chris lunges forward and swings his clasped hands, which causes purple explosions to ripple through the air in front of him. The projectiles travel further when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Taiyou o Iru Honoo<br>(Special {{C}}) | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | Chris lunges forward and swings his clasped hands, which causes purple explosions to ripple through the air in front of him. The projectiles travel further when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Kagami o Hofuru Honoo<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | Chris leaps forward while slashing his hand downward as it burns with purple fire. He leaps farther when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Kagami o Hofuru Honoo<br>(Special {{L}}) | {{QCB}} {{punch}} | Chris leaps forward while slashing his hand downward as it burns with purple fire. He leaps farther when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
−
{{MoveListRow | Tsuki o Tsumu Honoo<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | Chris 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}}.}}
+
{{MoveListRow | Tsuki o Tsumu Honoo<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{DPF}} {{punch}} | Chris twirls into the air while surrounded in a streak of purple fire, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He twirls an additional time on the ground and ascends higher when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Shishi o Kamu Honoo | {{HCF}} {{punch}} (close) | Chris does an uppercut, then he hits his opponent with alternating burning body blows, finishing with a jumping kick. The initial uppercut breaks his opponent's guard if they are blocking, which makes the rest of the move unblockable.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | Shishi o Kamu Honoo | {{HCF}} {{punch}} (close) | Chris does an uppercut, then he hits his opponent with alternating burning body blows, finishing with a jumping kick. The initial uppercut breaks his opponent's guard if they are blocking, which makes the rest of the move unblockable.}}
 
}}
 
}}
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}}
 
}}
 
====Hidden====
 
====Hidden====
 +
An alternate version of Kyo can be selected by holding {{Start}} when selecting Kyo in any mode.
 
{{InfoTable|
 
{{InfoTable|
 
{{InfoFighter|
 
{{InfoFighter|
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| portrait={{sprite | King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png | crop_width=176 | crop_height=176 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
 
| portrait={{sprite | King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png | crop_width=176 | crop_height=176 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
 
| sprite={{sprite | King of Fighters 95 Saturn, Sprites, Kyo Kusanagi.gif}}
 
| sprite={{sprite | King of Fighters 95 Saturn, Sprites, Kyo Kusanagi.gif}}
−
| desc=This is a special alternative version of Kyo that uses his moveset from ''The King of Fighters '94''. He can be selected by holding {{Start}} when selecting Kyo in any mode.
+
| desc=This is a special alternative version of Kyo that uses his moveset from ''The King of Fighters '94''.
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
 
{{MoveListTable | desc=Special moves |
 
{{MoveListRow | 108 Shiki Yami Barai<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | Kyo throws fiery red sparks across the ground. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}
 
{{MoveListRow | 108 Shiki Yami Barai<br>(Special {{Z}}) | {{QCF}} {{punch}} | Kyo throws fiery red sparks across the ground. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with {{HP}}.}}

Revision as of 00:10, 11 April 2024

n/a

KingOfFighters97 title.png

The King of Fighters '97
System(s): Sega Saturn
Publisher: SNK
Developer:
Original system(s): Neo Geo
Developer(s) of original games: SNK
Sound driver: SCSP/CD-DA (40 tracks)
Peripherals supported: Extended RAM Cartridge (1MB/4MB)
Genre: Fighting Action/Kakutou Action (格闘アクション)[3], Action[4]

















Number of players: 1-2
Release Date RRP Code
Sega Saturn
JP 		¥5,8005,800 T-3120G
Sega Rating: All Ages
Sega Saturn
JP
(RAM Pack) 		¥7,8007,800 T-3121G
Sega Rating: All Ages
Non-Sega versions

The King of Fighters '97 (ザ・キング・オブ・ファイターズ’９７) is an entry in The King of Fighters series, released for the Sega Saturn by SNK. It is the fourth in the series, following The King of Fighters '96. Like its prequel, the Saturn release was delayed, so much so that the game was not released until 1998.

It requires a 1MB RAM cartridge for use, though, unlike The King of Fighters '96, it is also compatible with 4MB cartridges.

Story

The game is the conclusion of the Orochi Saga, a story that was partially revealed in the previous games and through outside media such as mangas.

In ancient times, a divine being called Orochi was born from Gaia and became its guardian, serving as a balancing force between humanity and nature. Its human followers formed a clan, and the strongest warriors of that clan became known as the Hakkesshu. As humanity grew, it began to topple the balance against nature, and Orochi decided it needed to destroy humanity in order to restore the natural order. This began a war with Orochi and the Hakkesshu against the rest of the human race. The war ended when three clans sealed Orochi away using the Three Sacred Treasures: the Kusanagi Sword, the Yasakani Jewel, and the Yata Mirror.

Centuries later, the seal that trapped Orochi began to weaken. The three clans decided to move its vessel. Wanting to sow discord between them, one of the Hakkesshu assassinated the wife of the leader of the Yasakani using a disguise to make it seem as if the Kusanagi clan was responsible. Craving revenge, the Yasakani made a blood pact with Orochi to gain some of its power (turning their red flames to purple) and renamed itself to the Yagami clan, and the Kusanagi and Yagami clans have been in a feud ever since.

In the present day, the Hakkesshu priest Goenitz seeks to break the seal and free Orochi. Chizuru Kagura, heiress of the Yata clan, hosts The King of Fighters '96 tournament to draw Kyo Kusanagi and Iori Yagami, the heirs to the Kusanagi and Yagami clans, to it. However, Goenitz, seeing the opportunity to destroy the heirs of all three clans at once, attacks during the finals of the event. Though Goenitz is defeated by the trio, Kyo and Iori refuse to work together against the Orochi threat and reject Chizuru's request for help.

The next year, the destructive finale of the last tournament is explained away as the result of a terrorist attack, and a new King of Fighters tournament is announced.

Gameplay

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Character Select.png

Character select

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Gameplay.png

Gameplay

The game is a team fighting game and follows the same format as the previous entries in the series, but it introduces two distinct playing styles that the player can select, Advanced and Extra. The Advanced mode is based on The King of Fighters '96. As in that game, characters can perform evasive rolls. This mode features a revamped power gauge that now fills whenever the player strikes the opponent or performs special moves and can store up to three stocks of the gauge. The Extra mode is based on the first two games in the series, The King of Fighters '94 and The King of Fighters '95. As in those games, characters have a sidestep dodge. The power gauge is filled by charging it or by blocking attacks or taking damage.

As before, the playable 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 jump upward with Up and jump behind and ahead with Up-left or Up-right. Characters can perform a weak punch with A, a strong punch with X, a weak kick with B, or a strong kick with Y. 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 X+Y. This can be done while standing or jumping. When stunned or grabbed, characters can call an undefeated team member in for a special assist attack with X+Y+A+B 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 the relationships between the characters. For example, Terry Bogard always helps his girlfriend Blue Mary, while the villainous Ryuji Yamazaki never helps anyone.

Blocking can be done by holding the D-Pad in the opposite direction of the opponent while standing or crouching. Characters can also block special moves and aerial attacks (but not grounded normal moves or Desperation moves) in midair from a neutral or backwards jump (but not a forwards jump). Throws can be performed by holding Left or Right and pressing a strong punch or kick button when next to the opponent. While blocking, characters can guard cancel into a counterattack by pressing X+Y, at the cost of a level of the power gauge. Different characters have different throws available to them. Throws cannot be blocked, but they can be escaped by pressing A+B at the start of the grab. Characters can also recover from a knockdown by rolling away quickly by pressing A+B upon landing.

Fighting styles

Players choose one of two modes before selecting their characters.

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Modes.png
 Advanced
The Advanced mode is a more offense-oriented playstyle based on the gameplay of The King of Fighters '96.

Characters backstep or run with Left Left or Right 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 evasive rolls with A+B to roll backward or Right+A+B to roll forward (or Left+A+B 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.

The power gauge is filled by attacking the opponent with normal attacks (but not throws) or by performing special moves (regardless of whether they connect with the opponent). When the gauge is filled, it is kept in stock and reset, up to three times. A character can use one stock of the gauge to perform a Desperation move or to enter "MAX mode" by pressing X+A+B, increasing the damage dealt by the character and reducing the damage taken from the opponent for a duration. Performing a Desperation move while in "MAX mode" performs a more powerful Super Desperation move (which can be done any number of times until the "MAX mode" state ends).

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Modes.png
 Extra
The Extra mode is a more defense-oriented playstyle based on the gameplay of the first two games in the series, The King of Fighters '94 and The King of Fighters '95.

Characters hop back or forth with Left Left or Right Right. Characters can dodge attacks with A+B, which causes the character to quickly lean into the background and evade any attacks made in that moment. Pressing any punch or kick button during a dodge causes the character to perform a quick, short-ranged counterattack when coming out of the dodge.

The power gauge is filled by blocking attacks or taking damage. It can also be filled manually, although it leaves the character vulnerable to an attack, by holding X+Y+A+B, 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. The gauge drains faster when the meter is filled by blocking attacks or taking damage than when it is filled by manually charging. 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 one stock of the gauge.

Social relations

On the character select screen (after selecting the first character) or on the order select screen, holding X shows the relationship between the highlighted character and the previously selected character. These icons indicate whether the teammates help each other when called for an assist attack and whether power gauge stocks are gained or lost when one character follows the other into battle (in Advanced mode).

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Affinities.png
 Positive
The two characters are friendly to one another. They always help each other when called for an assist attack (if not defeated). One stock of power gauge is awarded to the next character when the first character is defeated in battle.
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Affinities.png
 Neutral
The two characters are indifferent to each other. They have a 50% chance of helping each other when called for an assist attack (if not defeated). No stocks of power gauge are given to or taken from the next character when the first character is defeated in battle. The majority of characters have neutral relationships with each other.
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Affinities.png
 Negative
The two characters are hostile to one another. They never help each other when called for an assist attack. One stock of power gauge is removed from the next character when the first character is defeated in battle.

Modes

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Gallery.png

Art gallery

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 six randomly selected teams, then fights against a sub-boss (Orochi Iori or Orochi Leona), against the Awakened Orochi Team, and finally against Orochi, for a total of 9 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 six individual opponents, then fights against a sub-boss (Orochi Iori or Orochi Leona), against a character from the Awakened Orochi Team, and finally against Orochi, for a total of 9 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 six randomly selected teams, then fights against a sub-boss (Orochi Iori or Orochi Leona), against the Awakened Orochi Team, and finally against Orochi, for a total of 9 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).
  • Practice: A training mode where the player can choose any character and any opponent. There are options to set the behavior of the opponent (normal for active or stand, jump, or crouch for passive), whether the opponent guards or not, and whether the power gauge is permanently charged. There is no time limit, and the opponent has infinite health. Button inputs are shown on the side of the screen.
  • Art Gallery: A bonus gallery containing 65 pieces of artwork for the game.

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, Arcade, Hard, Very Hard, Hardest, Expert). There is an option to set the number of rounds for the single play modes (1, 3, or 5).

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 knockdown attacks, C for evasive rolls, L to power up or for a support attack, and R for taunting.

Shujinkou Team

A Japanese team consisting of Kyo Kusanagi, the main character of the Orochi Saga, and his friends. With the imminent return of Orochi and the Hakkesshu, they have teamed up again.

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 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 inherited his clan's ability to control fire.
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
(Special Z) 		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 C) 		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 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 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 L) 		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 (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Ge Shiki Naraku Otoshi Down+ HP  in midair Kyo clasps his hands together and swings them down like a hammer.
Ge Shiki Gou Fu You Right+ LK  Kyo pulls his leg up high, then does axe kick that can hit twice. The second hit can hit opponents who are crouch blocking.
88 Shiki Down-right+ HK  Kyo kicks twice while crouched. The second hit knocks the opponent away.
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.
Saishuu Kessen Ougi "Mu Shiki"
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P Kyo ignites his hand and throws a burst of fire onto the ground. He runs through the fire, setting himself ablaze, and performs several rapid punches.
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 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 C) 		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. He punches straight ahead with  LP  or at an upward angle with  HP . This move can be performed in midair (which is done at a downward angle regardless of the button used).
Iai Geri 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 backflips into the air with an electrically charged kick that knocks his opponent over.
Shinku Kakate Goma
(Special Z) 		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P Benimaru stands on one hand and spins his body around, kicking with both hands, knocking his opponent far back on impact.
Super Inazuma Kick Right Down Down-right K Benimaru backflips into the air with an electrically charged kick that knocks his opponent over.
Handou Sandan Geri Right Down-right Down Down-left Left K Benimaru hops forward with a roundhouse kick, a spinning heel kick, then an electrically charged backflip kick.
Benimaru Coleda
(Special L) 		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right P (close) Benimaru grabs and electrocutes his opponent.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Spinning Knee Drop Left+ HP / HK , Right+ HP / HK , or Down+ HP  in midair (close) Benimaru grabs and knees his opponent to the ground.
Flying Drill Down+ HK  in midair Benimaru dive kicks diagonally downwards while spinning like a drill.
Jackknife Kick Right+ LK  Benimaru skips forward with a front kick.
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.
Electro Trigger
(Special R) 		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P (close) Benimaru grabs and shocks his opponent with bolts of lightning, then throws them.
King of Fighters 97 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 C) 		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 Z) 		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right P (close) Daimon picks up and slams his opponent against the ground, then picks them back up and throws them through the air.
Uru Nage
(Special L) 		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right K (close) Daimon runs to the other side of his opponent, then grabs the opponent and falls backward with a slam.
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 Right Down Down-right K (close) Daimon grabs and trips his opponent.
Chou Ukemi Down Down-left Left K Daimon rolls forwards. He rolls farther when the move is performed with  HK .
Nekko Gaeshi Down Down-right Right K Daimon holds a defensive posture. If he is attacked while doing this, he grabs his opponent, turns around, and rolls into the ground with them.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Takra Tsubushi Right+ LP  Daimon pulls his hand back, then smashes his fist down, which knocks down his opponent on impact.
Zuju Barai Down-right+ HP  Daimon punches into the air with his back hand.
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.
Arashi Noyama: Nekko Meki
(Special R) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K (close) Daimon grabs his opponent, then jumps backward toward the ground with a slam. This can be followed up by another slam (Arashi Noyama: Zuko Kiri Kabu Gaeshi) by pressing Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K (in the opposite direction since Daimon turned around) near the end of the move. This can be followed by a final explosive slam (Arashi Noyama: Bukko Meki Ura Nage) by pressing Right Down Down-right K (again in the opposite direction since Daimon turned around again) near the end of the follow-up move.

Garou Densetsu Team

A team representing characters from the Fatal Fury series of fighting games. They join the tournament after receiving an invitation from Blue Mary.

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Terry Bogard.gif




 Terry Bogard
The protagonist of the Fatal Fury series. He was trained in various fighting styles such as karate, kickboxing, and kung fu by his late father and their master Tung Fu Rue.
Move list (Special moves)
Name Command Description
Burn Knuckle
(Special C) 		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 Z) 		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 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 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 .
Power Charge
(Special L) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K Terry charges forward with a shoulder ram that knocks his opponent into the air.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Back Knuckle Right+ LP  Terry steps forward with a backfist.
Rising Upper Down-right+ HP  Terry does an uppercut.
Move list (Desperation moves)
Name Command Description
Power Geyser Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P Terry punches the ground, causing a geyser of energy to erupt from the ground in front of him.
High Angle Geyser
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right K Terry charges forward with a shoulder ram, then rises into the air with an uppercut and smashes downward with a burning fist.
King of Fighters 97 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 Z) 		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 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 1 second, 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 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
(Special L) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P 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 (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Jou Agito Right+ LK  Andy crouches and stands on a hand, then rolls forward with a kick that can hit opponents who are crouch blocking.
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.
Hisho Ryusei Ken
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P Andy swings his hands around and channels his ki into a concentrated burst.
King of Fighters 97 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 C) 		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 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 L) 		Down Down-left Left K Joe jumps forward while doing a rolling kick that can hit multiple times.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Slide Kick Down-right+ LK  Joe slides forward with a sweep kick.
Low Kick Right+ LK  Joe does a low roundhouse kick.
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.
Baku Retsu Hurricane Tiger Kakato
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-left Left P Joe slides forward with salvo of punches, then does two uppercuts that send cyclones flying and a rising knee strike, finishing with a kick in the air.

Ryuuko no Ken Team

A team representing characters from the Art of Fighting series of fighting games. They are seeking to find out who injured Takuma Sakazaki, the creator of the Kyokugen-ryuu fighting style, before the tournament.

King of Fighters 97 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 C) 		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 .
Mouko Rai Jin Setsu
(Special L) 		Down Down-right Right K Ryo leaps forward with a hand chop that knocks down his opponent on impact. He leaps further when the move is performed with  HK .
Hien Shippu Kyaku 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 Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P (close) Ryo does a combo of three quick punches that knocks his opponent over.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Hyouchuu Wari Right+ LP  Ryo draws his hand back, then steps forward with an hand chop that can hit opponents who are crouch blocking.
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.
Tenchi Haoh Ken
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P Ryo performs a straight punch that sends his opponent flying away.
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 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 C) 		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 Right Down Down-right P Robert jumps into the air while performing an uppercut. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP .
Ryuu Zan Shou
(Special L) 		Right Down Down-right K Robert flips backward with a kick. He flips higher when the move is performed with  HK .
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 Z) 		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 Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K (close) Robert does a combo of four quick kicks that knock his opponent over.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Ryuu Han Shuu Right+ LK  Robert does a high side kick.
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 (close) Robert rushes forward and unleashes a flurry of punches and kicks, then finishes with a Ryuu Ga.
Muei Shippuu Juudan Kyaku
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right K Robert jumps in the air with a blur of rapid kicks.
King of Fighters 97 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 C) 		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 Z) 		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. When the move is performed with  HP , she ascends higher, and the move can be followed up by a second jumping uppercut (Ura Kuu Ga) with Right Down Down-right P again.
Hien Senpuu Ken 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 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
(Special L) 		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P 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.
En Yoku Right+ LK  Yuri throws herself forward while striking with her rear.
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.
Hien Rekkou
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right K Yuri advances forward with two low jumping uppercuts, then a final, high jumping uppercut.

Ikari Team

A team representing characters from the Ikari Warriors series of run-and-gun games. The team is investigating the headaches and hallucinations that Leona has been suffering recently.

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 96 Saturn, Sprites, Leona.gif




 Leona
The adoptive daughter of Heidern, who found her after her village was destroyed and her family was murdered by the Hakkesshu. Though she has no memory of it, she is the daughter of a member of the Hakkesshu and a descendant of Orochi. After her father declined to help resurrect Orochi, Goenitz activated the Riot of the Blood within her, causing her to kill her family and the rest of her village.
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 C) 		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 Z) 		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. When the move is performed with  HK , it can be followed up by a somersault kick (Gliding Buster) with Right+ HK .
I-Slasher Down Down-left Left P Leona flips backwards, landing in a crouched position, then throws a crescent-shaped projectile that returns to her like a boomerang. Leona cannot perform another action until the projectile returns to her. The projectile travels further when the move is performed with  HP .
X-Calibur 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 , Right+ HP / HK , or Down+ 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.
Gravity Storm Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P Leona pulls her leg back, then swings it high up, turns around, and swings her leg back, rolling into a cartwheel and launching her opponent into the air. As the opponent is falling, she catches the opponent with two rising punches to the back.
Rebel Spark
(Special R) 		Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K Leona runs to her opponent and stabs them, causing sparks to fly out and then explode.
King of Fighters 97 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 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 C) 		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 Z) 		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 K (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.
Galactica Phantom
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P Ralf pulls his arm back and winds up for a powerful, unblockable punch.
King of Fighters 97 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 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 Z) 		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 L) 		Right Down Down-right K (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 C) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K (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
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.
Stomp Kick Right+ LK  Clark stomps his leg forward.
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 P (close) Clark tosses his opponent high into the air and catches them with a backbreaker three times, then slams the opponent into the ground.
Running Three
(Special R) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K (close) Clark grabs his opponent, turns around, points ahead, and runs to the end of the stage while carrying and then slamming the opponent.

Athena Team

A team representing characters from the Psycho Soldier series of platforming games. Athena initially does not want to join the tournament this year, but she changes her mind after reading a heartwarming letter from a fan named Kaoru Watabe.

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 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 C) 		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
(Special Z) 		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 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 L) 		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 Down Down-right Right K Athena runs forward at high speed. She can be hit while doing this but can pass through opponents.
Super Psychic Throw Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  HP  (close) Athena psychically throws her opponent into the air.
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 , Right+ HP / HK , or Down+ HP / HK  in midair (close) Athena grabs and throws her opponent in midair.
Phoenix Bomb Down+ LK  in midair Athena drops back-first at her opponent. She bounces off her opponent if she hits.
Renkan Tai Right+ LK  Athena hops forward with a high kick.
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. This move can be performed in midair. 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 .
Phoenix Fang Arrow
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P in midair Athena curls into a ball and repeatedly dives diagonally downwards while glowing like a meteor.
King of Fighters 97 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 C) 		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 .
Ryu Renda Right Down Down-right PPPPP Kensou leans forward on one leg while swinging repeatedly with alternating arms.
Ryuu Ren Ga Chi
(Special L) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  LP  Kensou leaps forward with an elbow strike, then follows up with a knee strike and a turning kick while moving forward.
Ryuu Ren Ga Gen Left Down-left Down Down-right Right  HP  Kensou leaps forward with an elbow strike, then 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 (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Kobokushu Right+ LP  Kensou pulls both arms into the air, then slaps down with both of them.
Kousentai Right+ LK  Kensou hops forward with a turning kick.
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.
Sen Ki Hakkei
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P (close) Kensou thrusts his palms out and hits his opponent with an orb of psychic energy.
Niku Man O Kuu Down Down-left Left Down Down-left Left P Kensou eats a meat bun, which restores a small portion of his health.
King of Fighters 97 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 C) 		Down Down-left Left  LP  Chin whips a gourd through the air in front of him.
Hyoutan Geki Kyou 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 Z) 		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 Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K Chin rolls along the ground, then does an upward hand strike that knocks his opponent over. He rolls farther when the move is performed with  HK .
Bugetsu Sui
(Special L) 		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 Right+K. Or he can move with Left or Right or stand back up by pressing  LP + HP + LK + HK .
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Suiho Hyoutan Shuu Right+ LP  Chin falls on his back while swinging his gourd.
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 .
Gou En Shourai
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P Chin takes a drink from his gourd and explodes with fire, then stumbles drunkenly forward.

Shin Josei Kakutouka Team

A new Women Fighters Team, with Chizuru Kagura (the sub-boss of The King of Fighters '96) replacing Kasumi Todoh, who left to continue searching for her father.

King of Fighters 97 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. Her clan possesses the Yata Mirror (八汰鏡). She is trying to convince Kyo Kusanagi and Iori Yagami, the other guardians of the Three Sacred Treasures, to unite against the threat of Orochi and the Hakkesshu. 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.
Move list
Name Command Description
108 Katsu Tamayura no Shitsune
(Special Z) 		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.
202 Katsu Otsu Shiki Choumon no Isshin
(Special L) 		Down Down-right Right P or K Chizuru creates a mirror image that leaps forward with an open-handed strike. She leaps farther when the move is performed with  HP  or  HK . She takes the place of the mirror image after the move is complete when the move is performed with K.
212 Katsu Shinsoku no Noroti 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
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right 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 97 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 C) 		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 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. She steps forward slightly when the move is performed with  HP .
Hakuro no Mai
(Special L) 		Right Down Down-right P Mai twirls forward while swinging her fans around her.
Hishou Ryuu'en Jin 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 Z) 		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) Hold Down for 2 seconds, then Up+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  (for the first button press).
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.
Benitsuru no Mai Down-right+ LK  Mai slides forward with a low kick, then rolls back with a high kick.
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.
Hou'ou no Mai
(Special R) 		Down Down-left Left Down Down-left Left P Mai flips into the air, then spins downward in a ball while tailed by the sash around her waist, which is set alight.
Sui Chou no Mai Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P Mai throws three folding fans at her opponent.
King of Fighters 97 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 C) 		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 Z) 		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 L) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K King runs forward, then hits her opponent with alternating high and low kicks.
Surprise Rose 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 (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Slide Kick Down-right+ HK  King slides forward with a sweep kick.
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.
Silent Flash
(Special R) 		Down Down-left Left Down Down-left Left K King performs a somersault kick. If it hits, she follows up with a knee strike, then flies upward with an upside-down kick that launches her opponent into the air.

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 97 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 Z) 		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 L) 		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 C) 		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. When the move is performed with  HK , he ascends higher and hits additional times, and the move can be followed up with another kick (Ten Sou Zan) by pressing Down+ HK .
Hishou Kyaku Down Down-right Right K in midair Kim dives diagonally downward while stomping repeatedly.
Ryuusei Ranku 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 (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Neri Chagi Right+ LK  Kim lifts his leg high and comes down with an axe kick, which hits up to two times and can hit opponents who are crouch blocking.
Dora Yup Chagi Right+ LP  Kim hops forward with a turnaround kick.
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.
Hou'ou Tenbu Kyaku
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left K in midair Kim dives diagonally downward with a stomp, then flips in circles while kicking, ending with a heel kick in midair.
King of Fighters 97 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 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 C) 		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 (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Hiki Nige Down-right+ LP  Chang slides along the ground, holding his ball out in front of him.
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.
Tekkyu Dai Assatsu
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P Chang flies diagonally upward, then falls with a body attack.
King of Fighters 97 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 L) 		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 C) 		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
(Special Z) 		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 spinning attack with his claws after hitting the wall. He spins diagonally downwards with  LK  or straight ahead with  HK .
Hishou Kyaku Down Down-right Right K in midair Choi dives diagonally downward, then stomps repeatedly on his opponent.
Senpuu Hien Shitotsu 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.
Nidan Giri Right+ LP  Choi rolls forwards, then slashes upwards.
Toorima Geri Right+ LK  Choi somersaults forward with a kick.
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.
Hou'ou Kyaku
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P Choi slides forward with a series of claw slashes, ending with a somersault kick.

New Faces Team

A new team consisting of the members of the band C.Y.S. They were preparing to perform at a club when their gig was canceled to book Iori's jazz band instead. Vowing revenge, the band steals an invitation from the American Sports Team and joins the tournament.

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Yashiro Nanakase.gif




 Yashiro Nanakase
The guitarist for the band C.Y.S., who has a deep hated for Iori. His fighting style is focused on his hard punches.
Move list (Special moves)
Name Command Description
Upper Duel
(Special Z) 		Right Down Down-right P Yashiro swings his fist inward. If it hits, he follows up with a jumping uppercut. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP .
Sledgehammer
(Special L) 		Down Down-left Left P Yashiro leaps forward while swinging his fist down to the ground like a hammer. The move knocks down the opponent on impact and can hit opponents who are crouch blocking.
Missile Might Bash Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P Yashiro moves forward while swinging his arms back and forth, finishing with a hit that knocks the opponent back.
Jet Counter
(Special C) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P Yashiro dashes forward with a punch that knocks his opponent back.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Step Side Kick Right+ LK  Yashiro does a side kick.
Move list (Desperation moves)
Name Command Description
Million Bash Stream
(Special R) 		Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P Yashiro moves forward while swinging his arms back and forth, finishing with an uppercut that knocks the opponent into the air.
Final Impact Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P Yashiro hits with a powerful punch that sends the opponent flying back. Holding P charges the punch to do more damage.
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Shermie.gif




 Shermie
A fashion designer and the keyboardist for the band C.Y.S. She fights using an acrobatic grappling style.
Move list (Special moves)
Name Command Description
Axle Spin Kick
(Special Z) 		Down Down-left Left K Shermie does an axle spin through the air, followed by a crescent kick when she lands. She jumps slightly farther when the move is performed with  HK .
Shermie Shoot Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K Shermie rushes forward, then does a handstand on top of her opponent and takes them down with her knees. She runs slightly farther when the move is performed with  HK .
Shermie Whip
(Special C) 		Right Down Down-right K (close) Shermie stands on a hand and rolls backward while kicking through the air in a circle. If it connects, she grabs the opponent with her legs for a takedown, followed by a suplex throw.
Shermie Spiral
(Special L) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P (close) Shermie does a handstand on top of her opponent, wraps her legs around their head, then spins their body to the ground.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Shermie Stand Right+ LK  Shermie does a front walkover while kicking, which can hit opponents who are crouch blocking.
Move list (Desperation moves)
Name Command Description
Shermie Flash Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P (close) Shermie does a handstand on top of her opponent, then grabs them for a suplex slam.
Shermie Carnival
(Special R) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P (close) Shermie grabs her opponent and performs three suplexes in alternating directions.
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Chris.gif




 Chris
The lead vocalist for the band C.Y.S. His fighting style is centered around his incredible speed.
Move list (Special moves)
Name Command Description
Slide Touch
(Special C) 		Down Down-right Right P Chris does an underhand palm strike that knocks the opponent back on impact. A duplicate of him slides forward to perform the strike when the move is performed with  HP .
Glider Stomp Down Down-right Right K in midair Chris zooms downward with a dive kick.
Hunting Air
(Special Z) 		Right Down Down-right K Chris crouches, and a duplicate of him rises into the air with a knee strike and a high kick. The duplicate appears higher (and can pass through his opponent) when the move is performed with  HK .
Shooting Dancer Thrust
(Special L) 		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P Chris dashes forward, then slides to the ground with a low kick when the move is performed with  LP  or a jumps into the air with a spinning heel kick when the move is performed with  HP .
Shooting Dancer Step Right Down-right Down Down-left Left K Chris dashes forward, then leaps into the air and comes down with a stomping kick that can hit opponents who are crouch blocking.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Spinning Array Right+ LP  Chris lunges forward with a punch that spins his body around.
Move list (Desperation moves)
Name Command Description
Chain Slide Touch Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P Chris produces multiple advancing duplicates that hold their hands out for palm strikes that knock the opponent back.
Twister Drive
(Special R) 		Down Down-left Left Down Down-left Left K Chris jumps into the air with multiple backflip kicks.

'97 Special Team

Three polls were conducted by the Japanese video game magazines Weekly Famitsu, Gamest, and Neo Geo Freak, and a team was formed with the characters that won each poll. Ryuji Yamazaki won the Famitsu poll, Blue Mary won the Gamest poll, and Billy Kane won the Neo Geo Freak poll. All three characters originated in the Fatal Fury series, with Ryuji and Blue Mary having debuted in Garou Densetsu 3: Road to the Final Victory.

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Ryuji Yamazaki.gif




 Ryuji Yamazaki
A criminal who fights with one hand in his pocket. It is revealed that he is actually a descendant of the Hakkesshu, but he is immune to the effects of the Riot of the Blood because of his insanity.
Move list (Special moves)
Name Command Description
Sabaki no Aikuchi
(Special L) 		Right Down Down-right P Ryuji slides forward while slashing with his knife. He slides further when the move is performed with  HP .
Hebi Tsukai Gedan
(Special C) 		Down Down-left Left  LP  Ryuji charges his arm. When  LP  is released, he performs a fast punch diagonally upwards. The longer the button is held, the more damage the punch does if it connects. The move can be canceled by pressing  HK .
Hebi Tsukai Uwadan Down Down-left Left  HP  Ryuji charges his arm. When  LP  is released, he performs a fast punch diagonally downwards. The longer the button is held, the more damage the punch does if it connects. The move can be canceled by pressing  HK .
Hebi Tsukai Chuudan Down Down-left Left  LK  Ryuji charges his arm. When  LP  is released, he performs a fast punch straight ahead. The longer the button is held, the more damage the punch does if it connects. The move can be canceled by pressing  HK .
Bai Gaeshi Down Down-right Right P Ryuji swings his arm up, which can damage a nearby opponent or grab a projectile out of the air and throw it back toward the caster.
Suna Kake Right Down Down-right K Ryuji does a high kick that kicks up dust from the ground.
Sadomazo
(Special Z) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K Ryuji taunts his opponent. If his opponent attacks him while he is doing this, he counters with a charging punch.
Badukan Pachiki Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right P Ryuji grabs and hits his opponent with an explosive headbutt.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Bussashi Right+ LP  Ryuji punches downward, which hits up to two times and can attack opponents who are crouch blocking.
Move list (Power moves)
Name Command Description
Guillotine
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P Ryuji leaps forward, coming down with a flaming fist. If it connects, he drags his opponent along the ground with it before throwing them into the air.
Yondan Drill Driller Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right Down-right Down Down-left Left (close) Ryuji grabs and throws his opponent into the air, then pummels them with multiple strikes upon landing.
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Blue Mary.gif




 Blue Mary
A freelance agent who is hired by Billy Kane, unknowingly working in the service of the criminal boss Geese Howard. She is a love interest of Terry Bogard, and she fights with grappling techniques, with a particular emphasis on flying jointlocks.
Move list (Special moves)
Name Command Description
Spin Fall Down Down-right Right K Mary leaps forward and falls with an axe kick.
Vertical Arrow
(Special L) 		Right Down Down-right K Mary jumps and kicks diagonally upward. It can be interrupted with a scissor takedown (Mary Snatcher) by pressing Right Down Down-right K again during the move.
Mary Spider
(Special C) 		Down Down-right Right P Mary flips over her opponent, then takes them down with a neck hold.
Straight Slicer
(Special Z) 		Hold Left for 2 seconds, then Right+K Mary crouches and slides forward with a sweep kick. She can follow up with a grab, slam, and hold (Mary Crab Clutch) by pressing Down Down-right Right K during the move.
Mary Reverse Facelock Down Down-left Left  LK  Mary holds a defensive posture. If she is hit by an attack from an airborne opponent while doing this, she catches the attack and locks the opponent in a hold.
Mary Head Buster Down Down-left Left  HK  Mary holds a defensive posture. If she is hit by a high or mid attack from a grounded opponent during this, she catches the attack, rolls backward, and throws the opponent high into the air.
Back Drop Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P (close) Mary grabs her opponent and performs a suplex.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Hammer Arc Right+ LP  Mary hops forward while swinging her fists down.
Climbing Arrow Down-right+ LK  Mary does a donkey kick into the air.
Move list (Power moves)
Name Command Description
Mary Typhoon Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right Down-right Down Down-left Left K (close) Mary climbs onto her opponent's shoulders, grabs their head between her feet, and slams them with her legs.
Mary Splash Rose Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P Mary dashes back and forward in front of her opponent, then does a jumping kick and knocks them into the air with multiple hand swipes.
Mary Dynamite Swing
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right K Mary knocks her opponent into the air with a knee strike, grabs them in midair and drives them back to the ground, then grabs them again after they stand up and swings them around multiple times by the neck before letting go.
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Billy Kane.gif




 Billy Kane
The right-hand man of Geese Howard, who organizes the team under orders from Geese in order to investigate the power of Orochi.
Move list (Special moves)
Name Command Description
Senpuu Kon  LP  LP  LP  LP  LP  Billy twirls his cudgel in front of him rapidly.
Shuuten Ren Ha Kon  HP  HP  HP  HP  HP  Billy stabs his cudgel in front of him rapidly.
Senen Satsu Kon
(Special L) 		Right Down Down-right P Billy jumps into the air while holding his cudgel out.
Sansetsu Kon Chuudan Uchi
(Special C) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P Billy whips his cudgel in front of him, and it expands across the screen. He can set the cudgel on fire (Kaen Sansetsu Kon Chuudan Uchi) by pressing Down Down-right Right P before it is fully extended.
Kyoushuu Hishoukon
(Special Z) 		Right Down Down-right K Billy vaults into the air with his cudgel, then drops back to the ground with a kick.
Ka Ryuu Tsuigeki Kon Right Down-right Down Down-left Left  LK  Billy holds his staff upwards in a defensive stance. If the opponent hits it, Billy responds with a cudgel strike.
Sui Ryuu Tsuigeki Kon Right Down-right Down Down-left Left  HK  Billy holds his staff forwards in a defensive stance. If the opponent hits it, Billy responds with a cudgel strike.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Dai Kaiten Geri Right+ LP  Billy hops forward, striking with his cudgel, then spinning with a kick.
Boukou Tobi Geri Right+ LK  Billy vaults on his cudgel and does a side kick that knocks his opponent over.
Move list (Desperation moves)
Name Command Description
Chou Kaen Senpuukon
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P Billy twirls his cudgel in front of him while the ends are on fire, creating a circle of flame that rolls forward a short distance. It rolls a longer distance when the move is performed with  HP .
Dai Senpuu Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P Billy swings his cudgel in a circle around him as it expands, then swings it down like a bat.

Single-Entry Fighters

For the first time in the series (aside from boss characters), the game contains two characters who are not members of any team.

King of Fighters 97 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). Having beat up his team members at the end of The King of Fighters '95 and murdered Mature and Vice at the end of The King of Fighters '96, Iori now fights without a team. He has been suffering from mysterious headaches and hallucinations recently.
Move list (Special moves)
Name Command Description
108 Shiki Yami Barai
(Special Z) 		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 C) 		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 L) 		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 Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P (close) Iori grabs and shoves his opponent away.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Ge Shiki Yumebiki HOLD Right LP   LP  Iori claws with an open hand, then swings it back in a fist.
Ge Shiki Gou Fu In Shinigami Right+ LK  Iori pulls his leg up high, then does axe kick that can hit twice. The second hit can hit opponents who are crouch blocking.
Ge Shiki Yuri Ori Left+ LK  in midair Iori kicks behind him.
Move list (Desperation moves)
Name Command Description
Kin 1211 Shiki Ya Otome Down Down-right Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P Iori dashes forward and performs a series of hand strikes, ending by grabbing the opponent and creating an explosion of purple fire.
Ura 108 Shiki Ya Sakazuki
(Special R) 		Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P Iori throws fiery purple sparks that slide along the ground, then explode in a pillar of purple fire. If it hits, the opponent is trapped in a stasis effect until knocked out of it. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP .
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Shingo Yabuki.gif




 Shingo Yabuki
Kyo Kusanagi's biggest fan, who has imitated his style of dress and his fighting moves. Though he cannot control fire like Kyo can and often messes up or forgets moves (and must consult his notepad), he is good-natured and indefatigable. His moves uniquely have a chance of landing a "Critical Hit" that does extra damage.
Move list (Special moves)
Name Command Description
114 Shiki: Aragami Mikansei Down Down-right Right  LP  Shingo lunges forward with a hook punch using his following arm.
115 Shiki: Dokugami Mikansei
(Special Z) 		Down Down-right Right  HP  Shingo steps forward with a hook punch using his following arm, then a hook punch with his leading arm that knocks the opponent over.
100 Shiki Oni Yaki Mikansei
(Special C) 		Right Down Down-right P Shingo does an elbow strike, then twirls into the air while holding his arms out, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP .
101 Shiki Oboro Guruma Mikansei Down Down-left Left K Shingo hops forward with a front kick that knocks his opponent over. When the move is performed with  HK , he follows up with another hop and front kick, then a high jump and an axe kick.
Shingo Kick
(Special L) 		Left Down Down-left K Shingo does a jumping turnaround kick that knocks his opponent to the ground on impact. The move covers more horizontal distance when it is performed with  HK .
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Ge Shiki Gou Fu Nage Fukanzen Right+ LK  Shingo pulls his leg up high, then does axe kick that can hit twice. The second hit can hit opponents who are crouch blocking.
Move list (Desperation moves)
Name Command Description
Burning Shingo Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P Shingo lunges forward with a hook punch using his following arm, then an uppercut, a downward punch, and a final uppercut that knocks his opponent back.
Ge Shiki Kake Hou Rin
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P Shingo steps forward with a shoulder ram that knocks his opponent back.

Bosses

Sub-bosses

After defeating six teams in the tournament, the player faces one of the sub-bosses.

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Orochi Iori.gif




 Orochi Iori
Iori when he is under the effects of the Riot of the Blood, also called Insane Iori with the Blood of Orochi Under the Night of the Moon (ツキノヨルオロチノチニクルフイオリ). He possesses the power of Orochi because of the blood pact his clan made hundreds of years prior. He uses the same moves as normal Iori but moves faster.
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Orochi Leona.gif




 Orochi Leona
Leona when he is under the effects of the Riot of the Blood, also called Insane Leona with the Blood of Orochi Awakened Within the Darkness (ヤミノナカオロチノチニメザメルレオナ). She is revealed to be a descendant of Orochi, whose memory was wiped by Goenitz. She is faced instead of Orochi Iori if the player is using a team with Iori on it. She uses the same moves as normal Leona but moves faster.
Awakened Orochi Team

After defeating Orochi Iori or Orochi Leona, the New Faces Team realizes that they are members of the Hakkesshu and three of the four Heavenly Kings of Orochi (along with Goenitz). The power of Orochi awakens within them, and they challenge the player's team. The team's members are meant to be a dark reflection on the members of the Shujinkou Team.

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Orochi Yashiro.gif




 Orochi Yashiro
The true form of Yashiro. He was designed to be a darker counterpart to Goro Daimon and fights with a similar grappling style.
Move list (Special moves)
Name Command Description
Musebu Daichi
(Special Z) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right K Yashiro runs forward and grabs his opponent, then flips backward through the air with a slam. He runs further when the move is performed with  HK .
Kujiku Daichi
(Special C) 		Down Down-left Left P Yashiro leaps through the air with a grab, then does a handstand on the opponent's head and rolls over to the other side of the opponent. He leaps farther when the move is performed with  HP .
Odoru Daichi Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P (close) Yashiro does a handstand on top of his opponent, then rolls over and smashes the opponent's neck on his back. He then jumps into the air with the opponent and slams them into the ground with a windmill motion.
Niragu Daichi
(Special L) 		Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right P (close) Yashiro lifts his opponent up by the neck, then slams them back on forth on the ground. He then jumps into the air with the opponent and slams them into the ground.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Bu Right+ LK  Yashiro does a side kick.
Move list (Desperation moves)
Name Command Description
Ankoku Jigoku Gokuraku Otoshi Right Down-right Down Down-left Left Right Down-right Down Down-left Left P (close) Yashiro lifts his opponent up by the neck, then drops and kicks them. He then picks them up by the neck and slams them back and forth on the ground, ending by tossing them into the air.
Araburu Daichi
(Special R) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P (close) Yashiro grabs the opponent by the neck, then jumps into the air and slams them into the ground, then jumps higher into the air and throws them into the ground again, following up with a ground smash.
Hoeru Daichi Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P (close) Yashiro hits with a powerful blast of energy from his palm that sends the opponent flying back. Holding P charges the blast to do more damage.
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Orochi Shermie.gif




 Orochi Shermie
The true form of Shermie. She is meant to be a darker counterpart to Benimaru Nikaido and possesses similar electrokinetic abilities.
Move list (Special moves)
Name Command Description
Mugetsu no Raiun
(Special Z) 		Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P or K Shermie blows an explosive ball of lightning in front of her. The distance the ball is blown depends on the button used, with  LP  being closest to Shermie,  LK  being halfway across the screen,  HP  being three-quarters across the screen, and  HK  being completely across the screen.
Yatanagi no Muchi
(Special C) 		Down Down-left Left P Shermie slashes the air in front of her, causing a wave of lightning to travel from her. The projectile travels further when the move is performed with  HP .
Shajitsu no Odori
(Special L) 		Down Down-left Left K Shermie does a lightning-infused axle spin through the air. She jumps slightly farther when the move is performed with  HK .
Raijin no Tsue Down Down-right Right K in midair Shermie spins higher in the air, then unrolls her body with a lightning-infused downward kick.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Kourai Right+ LK  Shermie does a front walkover while kicking, which can hit opponents who are crouch blocking.
Move list (Desperation moves)
Name Command Description
Ankoku Raikou Ken Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P Shermie pulls her fist back to charge it, then jabs in front of her with an electrically charged fist that explodes in an orb of lightning, hitting multiple times.
Shukumei, Genei, Shinshi
(Special R) 		Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P Shermie shoots her body forward with an axle spin kick while her body courses with electricity.
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Orochi Chris.gif




 Orochi Chris
The true form of Chris. He was designed to be a darker counterpart to Kyo Kusanagi and can control fire like him.
Move list (Special moves)
Name Command Description
Taiyou o Iru Honoo
(Special C) 		Down Down-right Right P Chris lunges forward and swings his clasped hands, which causes purple explosions to ripple through the air in front of him. The projectiles travel further when the move is performed with  HP .
Kagami o Hofuru Honoo
(Special L) 		Down Down-left Left P Chris leaps forward while slashing his hand downward as it burns with purple fire. He leaps farther when the move is performed with  HP .
Tsuki o Tsumu Honoo
(Special Z) 		Right Down Down-right P Chris twirls into the air while surrounded in a streak of purple fire, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He twirls an additional time on the ground and ascends higher when the move is performed with  HP .
Shishi o Kamu Honoo Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P (close) Chris does an uppercut, then he hits his opponent with alternating burning body blows, finishing with a jumping kick. The initial uppercut breaks his opponent's guard if they are blocking, which makes the rest of the move unblockable.
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Muyou no Ono Right+ LP  Chris lunges forward with a punch that spins his body around.
Move list (Desperation moves)
Name Command Description
Ankoku Orochi Nagi Down Down-left Left Down-left Down Down-right Right P Chris holds a finger 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.
Daichi o Harau Gouka
(Special R) 		Down Down-right Right Down Down-right Right P Chris dashes forward while shielded by a barrier of purple fire, then jumps away in a roll.
Final boss

After defeating the Awakened Orochi Team, Yashiro and Shermie sacrifice themselves to complete the ritual and use Chris as a vessel to resurrect Orochi.

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Sprites, Orochi.gif




 Orochi
A powerful being that is dedicated to protecting Gaia. It is resurrected by the Hakkesshu in the body of Chris.

Hidden

An alternate version of Kyo can be selected by holding  START  when selecting Kyo in any mode.

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Characters.png
King of Fighters 95 Saturn, Sprites, Kyo Kusanagi.gif




 EX Kyo Kusanagi
This is a special alternative version of Kyo that uses his moveset from The King of Fighters '94.
Move list (Special moves)
Name Command Description
108 Shiki Yami Barai
(Special Z) 		Down Down-right Right P Kyo throws fiery red sparks across the ground. The projectile moves faster when the move is performed with  HP .
100 Shiki Oni Yaki
(Special C) 		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 .
101 Shiki Oboro Guruma
(Special L) 		Left Down Down-left K Kyo flies through the air with a spinning back kick, which knocks down his opponent on impact. He kicks once when the move is performed with  LK  and three times when the move is performed with  HK .
Move list (Command normals)
Name Command Description
Ge Shiki Naraku Otoshi Down+ HP  in midair Kyo clasps his hands together and swings them down like a hammer.
Ge Shiki Gou Fu You Right+ LK  Kyo pulls his leg up high, then does axe kick that can hit twice. The second hit can hit opponents who are crouch blocking.
88 Shiki Down-right+ HK  Kyo kicks twice while crouched. The second hit trips the opponent.
Move list (Desperation moves)
Name Command Description
Ura 108 Shiki Orochi Nagi
(Special R) 		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.

Special Edit Teams

Special Edit Teams are hidden teams that have their own endings, which the player can form by selecting certain characters. As in The King of Fighters '96, the canonical ending for the game is only seen by finishing the game with the Three Sacred Treasures team. In this ending, Kyo and Iori sacrifice themselves to destroy Orochi.

Three teams were selected by the editors of three Japanese magazines (the same magazines that held polls to determine the members of the '97 Special Team).

Team Characters
Three Sacred Treasures Team Kyo Kusanagi Iori Yagami Chizuru Kagura
Kusanagi Team Kyo Kusanagi Shingo Yabuki Any character besides bosses/hidden characters, Iori Yagami, or Benimaru Nikaido
SNK Heroes Team Kyo Kusanagi Terry Bogard Ryo Sakazaki
Ego Team Kim Kaphwan Benimaru Nikaido Joe Higashi
Classic Women Fighters Team King Mai Shiranui Yuri Sakazaki
Classic Heroes Team Athena Asamiya Ralf Jones Clark Still
Famitsu Team Ryuji Yamazaki Chang Koehan Choi Bounge
Gamest Team Terry Bogard Blue Mary Joe Higashi
Neo Geo Freak Team Kyo Kusanagi Mai Shiranui Billy Kane

Stages

This is the first entry of the series where stages are chosen randomly rather than associated with teams.

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, Bali.png

Bali, Indonesia
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, Bali.png

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, China.png

Kowloon, Hong Kong
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, China.png

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, Japan.png

Nishinomiya, Japan
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, Japan.png

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, Korea.png

Seoul, South Korea
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, Korea.png

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, USA.png

New York State, USA
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, USA.png

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, Monaco.png

Monte Carlo, Monaco
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, Monaco.png

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, The Altar of Orochi's Heavenly Kings 1.png

The Altar of Orochi's Heavenly Kings 1
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, The Altar of Orochi's Heavenly Kings 1.png

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, The Altar of Orochi's Heavenly Kings 2.png

The Altar of Orochi's Heavenly Kings 2
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, The Altar of Orochi's Heavenly Kings 2.png

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, The Altar of Orochi's Heavenly Kings 3.png

The Altar of Orochi's Heavenly Kings 3
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, The Altar of Orochi's Heavenly Kings 3.png

King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, The Altar of Orochi.png

The Altar of Orochi
King of Fighters 97 Saturn, Stages, The Altar of Orochi.png

History

Legacy

This was the last entry in the series to be released on the Saturn. The sequel, The King of Fighters '98, was ported to the Sega Dreamcast as The King of Fighters: Dream Match 1999.

Production credits

  • Producer: T・Nishiyama
  • Chief Director: Toyohisa.Tanabe
  • Sub Director: Haruo.Tomita, Tomoko, Namaan-Hiroto, T.Hosokawa, K."Yanya"Hikida
  • System Editor: K・Mac・Nagashima
  • Front Designer: 8Shiro-7Kase, C.Yamasaki, Wormhead Hagi, Mina Kawai, Shio Shio Shio, M.Asakura, Miho Uematsu, Akiko Yukawa, S.Yamamoto, Mitsuru Kawasaki, Hiroto Kittaka, T.I-no-u-e, 44Oka, Aska Tahara
  • Back Designer: Sahori, Pal Co.,Ltd., Manoru, Kusunoki, Takamori.Souzi, K, M.Yokoyama, Raishi, Kanamaru
  • Special Effect: T Shin, Mika Nishida, Isomura, ・・・・・・・M・・・・・・・・, Kohrin
  • Program: S.Fujinuki, Cyber.Kondo, Souta Ichino
  • Sound: Sha-V, Shimizm, Jojouha-Kitapy, Yamapy-1, Tate-Norio, Ackey, Kyo-Chan, Zoe, Marimo
  • Voice: Masahiro Nonaka, Monster Maetsuka, Masaki Usui, Satoshi Hashimoto, Keiichi Nanba, Nobuyuki Hiyama, Koichi Mantaro, Kaori Horie, Masae Yumi, Yoshinori Shima, Yukina Kurisu, Eiji Yano, Toshikazu Nishimura, Akiko Saito, Akoya Sogi, Harumi Ikoma, Hiroyuki Arita, Makoto Awane, Hazuki Nishikawa, Rio Ogata, Kouji Ishii, Atushi Yamanishi, Kunihiko Yasui, Takehito Koyasu, Tomoko Kojima
  • Adjuster: Kiyoshi Asai, Tubolin-Sawa, Nwo-Melon
  • Bug Checker: Anne, Y.Gushiken?, Sanpo, Y.Kabashima, Hanyao, Tomo Chan
  • Special Thanks to: Hiroyuki Kawano, Y・Inui, Team Galapagos, Kamio.Tomonori, H.Aoyama, Tohru.Nakanishi, (株)アスキー 週間ファミ通, (株)新声社 ゲーメスト, (株)芸文社 月刊ネオジオフリーク


  • SNK Consumer Staff: H.Miyakami, T.Hata, Y.Gushiken, Y.Kabashita
  • Yumekobo Staff: Shinichi Furuoka, Hidemitsu Hosono, Mitsuo Akaike, Kazutoshi Inoue, Masayuki Fukushima, Masato Hayashi, Daisuke Nakada, Masahiro Kohiyama, Hirotaka Inokuchi, Takehiro Okayasu, Takashi Awashima, Minoru Aritaka, Takayuki Katsuta, Yukiyoshi Asai, Hiroshi Udagawa, Satoshi Doiguchi, Manabu Suzuki, Takeshige Kojima
  • TUG Staff: T.Hayashi, Amo "Elen", M.Kurokawa, M.Horikoshi, Y.Suzuki
And All SNK Staff
  • Produced by: SNK
Source:
In-game credits
KOF97 Saturn JP SSEnding.pdf
[5]

Magazine articles

Main article: The King of Fighters '97/Magazine articles.

Physical scans

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
Ação Games (BR)
80
[6]
Consoles + (FR) NTSC-J
96
[7]
Famitsu (JP) NTSC-J
65
[8]
Joypad (FR) NTSC-J
80
[9]
MAN!AC (DE) NTSC-J
85
[10]
Saturn Fan (JP) NTSC-J
80
[11]
Saturn Fan (JP) NTSC-J
76
[12]
SuperGamePower (BR)
100
[13]
Sega Saturn Magazine (UK) NTSC-J
93
[14]
Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) NTSC-J
80
[15]
Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) NTSC-J
89
[16]
Sega Saturn
 84
Based on
11 reviews

The King of Fighters '97

Saturn, JP
KoF97 Saturn JP Box Back.jpgKoF97 Saturn JP Box Front.jpg
Cover
TheKOF97 Saturn JP Spinecard.jpg
Spinecard
TheKOF97 Saturn JP Disc.jpg
Disc
The King of Fighters '97 Sat JP Manual.pdf
Manual
Saturn, JP (1MB RAM Pack)
KoF97 Saturn JP Box Back 1MB.jpgNospine-small.pngKoF97 Saturn JP Box Front 1MB.jpg
Cover

Technical information

Main article: The King of Fighters '97/Technical information.

References

  1. ↑ http://gdri.smspower.org/wiki/index.php/TUG
  2. ↑ http://gdri.smspower.org/wiki/index.php/Yumekobo
  3. ↑ File:KoF97 Saturn JP Box Back.jpg
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 https://sega.jp/history/hard/segasaturn/software_l.html#tab04 (Wayback Machine: 2019-12-07 02:59)
  5. ↑ File:KOF97 Saturn JP SSEnding.pdf
  6. ↑ Ação Games, "Junho 1998" (BR; 1998-xx-xx), page 11
  7. ↑ Consoles +, "Mai 1998" (FR; 1998-0x-xx), page 103
  8. ↑ Famitsu, "1998-04-03" (JP; 1998-03-20), page 1
  9. ↑ Joypad, "Mai 1998" (FR; 1998-xx-xx), page 84
  10. ↑ MAN!AC, "06/98" (DE; 1998-05-06), page 60
  11. ↑ Saturn Fan, "1998 No. 6" (JP; 1998-03-13), page 151
  12. ↑ Saturn Fan, "1998 No. 10" (JP; 1998-05-15), page 116
  13. ↑ SuperGamePower, "Maio 1998" (BR; 1998-xx-xx), page 26
  14. ↑ Sega Saturn Magazine, "July 1998" (UK; 1998-06-17), page 64
  15. ↑ Sega Saturn Magazine, "1998-10 (1998-04-03)" (JP; 1998-03-20), page 194
  16. ↑ Sega Saturn Magazine, "Readers rating final data" (JP; 2000-03), page 11


The King of Fighters '97

KingOfFighters97 title.png

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


Books: The King of Fighters '97 Perfect Guide Book (1998)

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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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