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Review of The King of Fighters XV on PS5

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Feb 2022
Cover image of The King of Fighters XV on PS5
Gamefings Score: 8
Platform: PS5 PS5 logo
Released: 17 Feb 2022
Genre: Fighting
Developer: SNK
Publisher: Koch Media

Introduction

Welcome to the colorful and chaotic world of The King of Fighters XV, where characters punch, kick, and shoot fireballs at each other to see who gets to wear the crown! This latest entry in the long-standing fighting series brings new features, characters, and enough combat skills to make even your grandma's tai chi instructor a little jealous. So buckle up, put on those fingerless gloves, and let's dive into this high-flying, fist-pumping extravaganza!

Gameplay

In KOF XV, you'll assemble your team of three fighters like some sort of wacky superhero alliance. Play your cards right, and you'll unleash devastating combo moves that make less sense than a cat riding a skateboard. The gameplay features a parry system that allows you to bask in the glory of your defensive skills with the cleverly named 'Shatter Strike.' Want to channel your inner Bruce Lee? You'll also get to enter 'Max Mode,' where you can unleash super, special moves that could put a dragon to shame. Online play is a standout feature, offering Ranked, Casual, and Room matches, ensuring you can embarrass friends and foes alike from the comfort of your couch. And just so you know you're not alone in your glory, there's a Boss Challenge Mode where you can go toe-to-toe against iconic foes like Omega Rugal. Perfect for those evenings when you want to shout at the TV!

Graphics

Using Unreal Engine 4, the graphics of The King of Fighters XV are certain to make your eyes pop out like a cartoon character sliding off a cliff. Character designs have been revamped to look like they stepped straight out of an anime series-full of flashy moves, vibrant colors, and enough flair that it's practically a walking fashion show! The backgrounds are detailed, aesthetically diverse, and some might even inspire you to hop online to figure out which fictional city this tournament takes place in. The animations are smoother than a buttered penguin sliding down a mountain, which definitely helps when you're trying to not get clobbered in the middle of a flashy combo.

Conclusion

In summary, The King of Fighters XV is a sturdy and delightful entry to the fighting genre. It's perfect for both seasoned veterans craving fierce competition and rookies looking to punch their way up the ranks. Though it draws some criticism for its sparseness in offline content and its complex tutorials (seriously, they should provide a free cheat sheet), it still delivers exhilarating gameplay and a vibrant character roster that keeps players engaged. If you enjoy epic face-offs that blend elegance and chaos, you're probably already itching to start your fighter collection. So grab your controller, assemble your team, and remember: in the world of KOF XV, there's no time for mercy-just a whole lot of fighting!

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