Hey Ash Crimson, whatcha playin’?
Hamster has dropped a treat on us this week, as The King of Fighters 2003 is now available on PS4, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch, part of the publsiher’s efforts to re-release the entire Neo Geo MVS back catalogue..
Beginning a narrative arc known as the “Sacred Treasures Saga”, KoF 2003 is one of the more intense titles in the KoF series, featuring a Marvel vs. Capcom-style tag format, allowing players to switch team-mates mid-round. Players can even designate a “Team Leader”, who is then afforded an exclusive Super Move. These mechanics made KoF 2003 the fastest and most tactical entry to that point.
KoF 2003 also introduces a bevy of super-stylish new fighters, including hot-headed boxer Shen Woo, blade specialist Malin, Fatal Fury’s Tizoc, and the son of former boss Rugal, Adelheid Bernstein. We also see Terry Bogard retain his new look from Garou: Mark of the Wolves. The series’ new star, however, is Best Husbando Ash Crimson, a smug cutie-pie with S-tier trolling skills. KoF 2003 went in big on the pretty-boys.
Both KoF 2003’s aesthetic and gameplay style would be tweaked to near-perfection in the following release, KoF XI (which foolishly omits Leona Heidern from the roster and is therefore the worst game in the series). But KoF 2003 remains a smart, fast and enjoyable fighting game, one of the franchise’ high points.
The King of Fighters 2003 is available now on PS4 in Japan and Xbox One and Nintendo Switch worldwide.