Garou: Mark of the Wolves

"A good, solid fighting game. SNK's greatest achievement."

SNK has been making fighting games for quite a while now. Although their games have always been one step behind Capcom's, they've been progressively getting better at it and their latest creation, Garou: Mark of the Wolves marks the epitomy of 2D fighting game evolution. This game is a must have for any hardcore fighting fan. Superb graphics and animation combined with fast, frantic gameplay makes this game a keeper.

Graphics : 10/10

With graphics that rival that of Street Fighter 3, Garou: MOTW is a sight to behold. The animations are fluid and vivid, with detailed characters and backgrounds. This is, without a doubt, one of the best looking fighting games ever.

Sounds : 10/10

This game also excels in the audio department. Shouts, grunts and hits come out clear and crisp and is filled with many memorable tunes. I especially like the tracks for Kim Jae Hoon, Terry Bogard, Hotaru Futaba and Hokutomaru.

Gameplay : 8.5/10

The battle system of MOTW is similar to KOF and the Capcom fighting games. There are weak and strong attacks for punches and kicks with plenty of special attacks and Super/Potential attacks. Also, unlike previous Fatal Fury titles there is only one plane to fight on. There are also a lot of new features such as the T.O.P system, just-defend system(parrying), guard cancelling and guard crushing. The cast of characters are completely new, except for an older version of Terry Bogard and they all have their own distinct fighting style and moves. The gameplay is more strategic than previous games, with classic two-in-one combos and reversals, and the various super moves are dazzling. However, one problem I found with the game was the difficulty in executing super/potential moves. They don't always seem reliable and I fail more than half the time doing them, although I can pull off other moves just fine. Another issue was the sketchy AI. They don't always seem very intelligent and often times I am able to win battles simply by using one move repeatedly and the bosses don't seem to be better off as well. But despite these minor flaws, the gameplay is fantastic. It's well balanced, easy to learn and enjoyable to play.

Replay value : 8/10

With plenty of unique playable characters and fighting tactics MOTW is fun to play over and over again. This game will keep you hooked for hours on end.

Conclusion/End Score : 9/10

Overall, a very enjoyable and fulfilling game. It boasts great graphics and sound, a good soundtrack, and is filled with lots of cool gameplay elements. This is by far the most brilliant fighting game SNK has produced and perhaps even the best 2D fighting game ever made!

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 04/19/01, Updated 04/19/01