On September 27, during the vibrant atmosphere of the Tokyo Game Show, SNK made an unexpected yet thrilling appearance on Capcom’s stage to unveil the Neo Geo Premium Selection. This initiative is designed to breathe new life into classic Neo Geo titles, introducing modern enhancements such as training modes and rollback netcode for a smoother online experience. The first title to launch under this banner was the much-anticipated Real Bout Fatal Fury 2: The Newcomers, which was quietly released at the event. Following this, at Evo France, Europe’s latest fighting game tournament, SNK announced the second installment in the series: Kizuna Encounter: Super Tag Battle, which is now available on Steam.
What Is Kizuna Encounter: Super Tag Battle?
Kizuna Encounter: Super Tag Battle first graced the arcade scene in 1996, emerging during a golden age for fighting games. As a sequel to 1995’s Savage Reign, it continues the narrative set in South Town, albeit in a darker, more dystopian future. Unlike other weapon-based fighters from SNK, such as Last Blade and Samurai Shodown, Kizuna Encounter distinguishes itself as a tag-team fighter. However, its approach to tagging diverges significantly from the mechanics seen in popular titles like Marvel vs. Capcom 2 or Project Justice.
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The game features a base roster of ten characters, allowing players to form teams of two to face off against either the CPU or human opponents. The unique twist lies in the tagging mechanics, which adds a layer of strategy to the gameplay.
How Does It Play?
In Kizuna Encounter: Super Tag Battle, players can switch characters by tapping the tag button while positioned in designated tag zones—red for player one and blue for player two. This mechanic introduces a strategic element, as keeping an opponent out of the tag zone can lead to significant advantages. If one member of a team is knocked out, the entire duo faces defeat, regardless of the remaining character’s health, making zone control crucial for victory.
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Players can also utilize sidestep and dash maneuvers to evade incoming attacks, providing opportunities to escape danger and strategically reposition within the tag zone. The game supports chaotic four-player matches, where each participant controls a fighter, amplifying the excitement. Notably, players can also select boss characters Jyazu and King Leo for solo battles.
What’s New in This Neo Geo Premium Selection Update?
Kizuna Encounter: Super Tag Battle, as the latest addition to the Neo Geo Premium Selection, boasts several modern features that enhance the gameplay experience:
- Rollback netcode
- 9-player multiplayer lobbies
- Tournament and spectator modes
- A new practice mode, complete with speed selectors and a hitbox viewer
- A jukebox for enjoying the game’s soundtrack
- Achievements
Kizuna Encounter: Super Tag Battle Is Available Now on Steam
SNK has recently mastered the art of the shadow drop, previously releasing titles such as SNK vs. Capcom: SVC Chaos and Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves’ Ken Masters DLC shortly after showcasing them at events. The release of Kizuna Encounter: Super Tag Battle is particularly significant for fans, as this fighting game has not been available for purchase since its Japan-only port to the PlayStation 4 in 2016. Currently, it can be purchased on Steam for .99, although there has been no announcement regarding a future console release.
