The King of Fighters: Complete Chronicle (1994-2024)
June 30, 2025
The King of Fighters (KOF) series is a fighting game legend—spanning three decades, countless rivalries, and more controller-smashing moments than we can count. From pixel art glory to modern 3D showdowns, let’s relive every main entry and see why KOF still sets the world on fire!
The Golden Era: 1994-2002
1994: The King of Fighters '94
The 3-on-3 team system debuts, uniting SNK’s greatest fighters. The start of a new era!
1995: The King of Fighters '95
Custom teams, Iori Yagami’s arrival, and the Orochi Saga begins—rivalries ignite!
1996: The King of Fighters '96
New engine, dodge rolls, and a bigger, bolder roster. The action heats up.
1997: The King of Fighters '97
Orochi Saga finale! Advanced/Extra modes, iconic music, and a boss that haunts dreams.
1998: The King of Fighters '98
Dream Match! No story, just pure fighting bliss. The fan-favorite for competitive play.
1999: The King of Fighters '99
NESTS Saga begins. Striker system shakes up team tactics. K’ and Maxima join the fight.
2000: The King of Fighters 2000
Striker madness—cameos galore and wild combos. SNK’s sprite art at its peak.
2001: The King of Fighters 2001
Team customization goes wild: up to four strikers or fighters. The NESTS Saga nears its climax.
2002: The King of Fighters 2002
Another Dream Match! Massive roster, tight gameplay, and a competitive classic.
New Frontiers: 2003-2010
2003: The King of Fighters 2003
Tag system debuts, Ash Crimson enters, and the Ash Saga begins. Fast, fluid, and fresh.
2004: The King of Fighters: Maximum Impact
A bold 3D spin-off—new moves, new look, and a different timeline. Not mainline, but a cult favorite.
2005: The King of Fighters XI
The series drops the year, adds tactical shifts, and deepens the Ash Saga. Fast-paced and technical.
2009: The King of Fighters XII
A visual reboot—hand-drawn HD sprites, but a barebones package. Gorgeous, but divisive.
2010: The King of Fighters XIII
The Ash Saga concludes! Refined gameplay, beautiful animation, and a massive roster. A modern classic.
Modern Legends: 2016-2024
2016: The King of Fighters XIV
The leap to 3D! 50 fighters, new teams, and a new story arc. Online play and eSports focus.
2022: The King of Fighters XV
The latest mainline entry—stunning visuals, rollback netcode, and a roster blending old and new. The saga continues, and the competitive scene is alive and kicking!
2023-2024: The Future
KOF XV continues to receive updates, DLC, and global tournaments. Rumors swirl about KOF XVI—stay tuned, the flame never dies!
Why KOF Still Rules
KOF is more than a fighting game—it’s a legacy of innovation, community, and hype. From pixel-perfect sprites to 3D brawls, from Orochi to Ash to Shun’ei, KOF’s spirit endures. Which era is your favorite? Did you main Kyo, Iori, or someone wild like Choi? Share your memories and let’s keep the dream match going!
Ready to relive the hype?
Which KOF was your favorite? Did you ever rage-quit after getting Orochi Chris’d? Drop your memories below and let’s keep the flame burning!