This game has always been a classic for me. If you're into 2D fighters, you definitely want to check out KOFXIII.
- Total of 33 hand-drawn characters
- Improved 2D graphics
- Color customization for every character
- Astonishing Soundtracks
- Very balanced system
- Beautiful Stage Animations
- Mission mode
- Online mode
- Replay option
Cons:
- Some classic characters missing
- Hard to find good connections
- Difficult to just pick up and play
- Unable to share replay
- No spectator option
If you are a true fan of 2D fighters such as Street Fighter 4, Marvel vs Capcom 3, and Mortal Kombat 9(2011), then you'll agree with me that King of Fighters XIII is now at their level. It's predecessor King of Fighters XII didn't live up to the expectations players had on King of Fighters. Although, It did look as beautiful, it lacked many concepts that King of Fighters XIII now included. Such as a stable online mode connection and more characters to join the roster.
King of Fighters XIII is very well known for its 3v3 fight. The only thing is there is no tag in or assists. Last man standing wins. This game also has very unique characters, each with its own personality along with very unique executions. Also this game has a roll system which allows you to evade attacks but not throws, also including a 4 types of jumps. A hop, hyper hop, jump, and hyper jump. Also this game features 3 types of gauges such as Guard, Power, and Hyper. The guard gauge is a way to balance how long you can block, therefore you cannot "turtle" on this game. Power gauge enhances your specials, while hyper gauge allows you to extend your combos and cancel select special moves.
In addition, I will admit that this game is not as easy to pick on and play, but it is very rewarding to learn as you will have so much fun once the pace is set. The balancing in this game is just right, because every character has the same amount of health so you won't have some characters overpowering others. Every character has a way to execute combos, just takes time finding out how since every character plays and feels different. New players will find the tutorial and mission mode very useful since they will teach you at least some fundamentals of the game, the rest is up to your experience.
Thankfully, this game was released just in time for me to enjoy along with other big titles in the fighting scene. Weather you're a veteran or a complete stranger, you'll soon be indulged in this beautiful rendition of King of Fighters. Remember to always have FUN, because it wouldn't be a game without it.