"Oy...Where to Start?"

Introduction
SNK's latest entry into the 3-D fighting game genre is King of Fighters: Maximum Impact. But why they let this game hit the shelves of stores and expected success is beyond me.

Story Score: 3/10
A new crime syndicate emerges in South Town, calling itself Mephistopheles (don't ask). For some reason it hosts a tournament and sends out invitations to KoF favorites and some (lame) newcomers.

Graphics and Presentation Score: 6/10
Dated. The character models and textures look like they came from a PS2 launch title fighting game (SFEX 3, anyone?). The animations are very jerky. But taking into consideration SNK's lack of concern for aesthetics in this area, I guess it's understandable. There is a noticeably long load time between fights, which is surprising considering the low quality of the graphics. The character line-up is a mixed bag. The KoF regulars look decent, but the new designs are definitely off (see Alba Meira, Soiree Meira, Mignon Beart, Lien Neville).

Sound Score: 4/10
Gone are the catchy themes SNK fans have grown accustomed to, replaced by typical cheesy J-rock. A lost opportunity, indeed. If that wasn't enough, Sony forced SNK to dub the entire cast's dialogue in English. Ugh. Furthermore, the option to switch between Japanese and English is not even offered. Hardcore SNK fans, prepare to cringe at some of the most inane and outright bad voice acting ever heard.

Game Play Score 4/10
The characteristic team-based element of KoF games is gone, replaced by one-on-one bouts, a la Street Fighter. Each fighter can execute normal attacks, command moves, specials, and supers. Now, here's where it gets ugly. After only playing for a half an hour, anyone who has played KoF will tell you something is wrong; i.e., the game is flatout broken. Unlike previous KoF games, opponents can now be struck while grounded and be pummeled relentlessly if his/her back is to a wall. Though this is somewhat more realistic, it proves frustrating when there is little one can do to escape such a situation. In addition, characters have been given "Stylish Arts," which are specific combinations of punches and kicks that extend beyond their normals' animations. The game does not make much of an attempt to be balanced, either. This is clearly showcased when using the newcomers, who are often equipped with moves that take advantage of the series's jump to 3D, leaving the established characters floored.

Conclusion Final Score: 5/10
This game feels like a rushed job. With some polish, it could have been decent. If this is the best SNK has to offer in terms of 3D fighting, they should leave the work to the pros (DOA, Tekken, VF).

Reviewer's Score: 5/10, Originally Posted: 05/12/06