King of Fighters: How do I get into the series?

[RobertX]

I've downloaded some games that make up the King of Fighters franchise, and I am very impressed with the games, a testament to SNK's works.

I do have one question: how do I get into it?

Like Capcom's Street Fighter franchise, there are so many games, and I am overwhelmed, bogged down. I would like to have a guide that helps me be good at it.

Some pieces advice or comments are welcome.

[dueda]

One way is to track the series, then look for guides on game sites and videos. Maybe there's a book on the series but it's easier to find (and tackle) one game at a time.

https://www.amazon.com/King-Fighters-Ult...1838019189 <-- This is currently preorder and probably about the art and hype, not the gameplay.
https://www.snk-corp.co.jp/official/kof-portal <-- Have your translator ready!

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_King_of_Fighters
https://snk.fandom.com/wiki/The_King_of_...s_(series)

Apologies, I know it sucks to just go after the Google/Wiki thing, but it's what I do. My former supernerd neighbours had everything, knew everything, but are no longer available for me to ask.
Hope this helps.

[RobertX]

Thanks, I didn't really expect any follow-up, so I suppose any answer is better than any.

I suppose I'll check out the Fatal Fury series before getting into KOF; they are, after all, the ones that started it all and are the simplest.

[dueda]

You're welcome to my little ability to assist. Good luck with the gaming!

[samui]

I've downloaded some games that make up the King of Fighters franchise, and I am very impressed with the games, a testament to SNK's works.
I do have one question: how do I get into it?
Like Capcom's Street Fighter franchise, there are so many games, and I am overwhelmed, bogged down. I would like to have a guide that helps me be good at it.
Some pieces advice or comments are welcome. HasanAbi is a standout Twitch streamer, known for his engaging political commentary and entertaining gameplay. His streams are both informative and fun, making complex topics accessible to a wide audience. I appreciate his authenticity and the community he's built around inclusive discussions and humor. Definitely one of the most dynamic streamers to watch! More info  hasanabi twitch streamer https://streamersbase.com/streamers/hasanabi

SNK truly made something special. Don't sweat the overwhelm, there are tons of resources for newcomers.

For starters, pick a recent game like KOF XV or XIV. They have great tutorials and mechanics that ease you in. Once comfortable, explore older entries based on their story arcs

For improvement, hit up online guides and character breakdowns. Tons of KOF players share tech and combos on YouTube and forums! You'll be pulling off stylish moves in no time.

[RobertX]

I hope this doesn't come too late, but thank you!

Which one did you start with?

[janegleichner]

If you are a beginner, you can start from one of the following versions:
1. King of Fighters '98 (KOF '98): This is a favorite version because of its balanced gameplay and diverse characters, no main storyline, suitable for beginners.
2. King of Fighters XIII (KOF XIII): This version has beautiful graphics and a deep story, ending the Ash Saga, one of the main storylines of the game series.
3. King of Fighters XIV (KOF XIV) or King of Fighters XV (KOF XV): These are modern versions with 3D graphics and improved gameplay, accessible to newcomers and have a large player community. Geometry Dash World