The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is one of the most iconic and beloved gaming consoles of all time. Released in 1991, it went on to become one of the best-selling consoles of its generation, with a library of games that still holds up today. One game that stands out as a highlight of the SNES's library is Art of Fighting, a 2D fighting game developed by SNK and released in Europe in 1994.
Art of Fighting is often overlooked compared to other iconic fighting games like Street Fighter II or Mortal Kombat, but it has a dedicated fan base that swears by its unique gameplay mechanics and memorable characters. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the game's features, release information, and age rating, as well as discuss its impact on the gaming industry.
Gameplay Mechanics
Art of Fighting is a 2D fighting game that takes place in the fictional town of Kyo, Japan. The game follows the story of Ryuji Takagi, a young man who seeks revenge against his brother's killer, Kyo Kusanagi. The gameplay mechanics are centered around one-on-one combat, with players using a variety of attacks, special moves, and combos to defeat their opponents.
One of the standout features of Art of Fighting is its unique "Double Team" system. Introduced in the game's sequel, Art of Fighting 2, this system allows players to switch between two characters on the fly during battle, adding a new layer of strategy to the gameplay. In the original Art of Fighting, however, players can only choose from three pre-set characters: Ryuji Takagi, Kyo Kusanagi, and Benimaru Nikaido.
Characters and Stages
Art of Fighting features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique abilities and fighting styles. There are four playable characters in the original game:
- Ryuji Takagi - A young man seeking revenge against his brother's killer.
- Kyo Kusanagi - The main antagonist of the game, known for his brutal fighting style.
- Benimaru Nikaido - A former martial artist who has been hired to take down Kyo.
- Leona Heidern - A mysterious woman with a complex past.
The game also features several stages, each with its own unique environment and hazards. These stages range from classic Japanese settings like the streets of Kyo and the dojo of Benimaru's former sensei, to more fantastical environments like the mystical forest and the ruins of an ancient temple.
Release Information
Art of Fighting was released in Europe in 1994 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). The game was developed by SNK, a renowned Japanese video game developer and publisher, and published by SNK themselves. The release date in Europe was typically around October or November of that year.
Interestingly, Art of Fighting was not initially released in Japan until much later, with some reports suggesting it wasn't available until the mid-1990s. This is likely due to the fact that the game's release was tied to a licensing agreement between SNK and Interplay Entertainment, an American video game developer and publisher.
Age Rating
The age rating for Art of Fighting varies depending on the region and country. In Europe, the game was rated M (Mature) by the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rating system, indicating that it contains violence, gore, and strong language.
In North America, the game was rated T (Teen) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), indicating that it contains mild cartoon violence and suggestive humor. However, some versions of the game have been released in other regions with different age ratings, such as AO (Adults Only) or 18+.
Impact on the Gaming Industry
Art of Fighting has had a lasting impact on the gaming industry, particularly in the fighting game genre. The game's unique gameplay mechanics and memorable characters helped establish it as a cult classic among fans of 2D fighting games.
One notable influence of Art of Fighting can be seen in the development of later SNK games, such as The King of Fighters series. This series built upon the foundation laid by Art of Fighting, incorporating new features like multiple playable characters and stages, as well as introducing new gameplay mechanics like team battles.
Art of Fighting has also inspired a devoted fan base, with enthusiasts creating their own fan art, cosplay, and fiction based on the game's characters and story. The game's nostalgic value is high among fans who grew up playing it in the 1990s, and its influence can still be seen today in modern fighting games.
Legacy
In recent years, Art of Fighting has experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to the rise of retro gaming communities and the availability of the game on various platforms. The game's release on digital storefronts like the Nintendo eShop and PlayStation Network has introduced it to a new generation of gamers who are discovering its unique charm for the first time.
In 2019, SNK announced that Art of Fighting would be making its way to the Nintendo Switch as part of their "SNK Collection" series, which also includes other classic games like The King of Fighters '98 and Metal Slug. This release has been met with excitement from fans who have been waiting years for a chance to play the game on modern hardware.
In conclusion, Art of Fighting is a beloved 2D fighting game that has stood the test of time. Its unique gameplay mechanics, memorable characters, and nostalgic value make it a must-play experience for any fan of classic video games. With its release on digital storefronts and upcoming re-release on modern consoles, this cult classic is sure to remain a favorite among gamers for years to come.
Table of Contents
- Game Information
- Gameplay Mechanics
- Double Team System
- Characters and Stages
- Release Information
- Age Rating
- Impact on the Gaming Industry
- Legacy
- Gameplay Mechanics