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Fatal Fury: First Contact -- a review by FatalStrikes

Put rather bluntly: Not bad. I haven't had the time or cash to play any of the other great fighters out there for the NGPC, but I have witnessed KOF R-2 in action. I'd say that First Contact is a bit under par when compared to the graphics of any other fighter game, but its not all that bad. At least I don't have a problem with it, I like the "super deformed big headed look thats all the rage in Japan now."

Sound: B++

Hmm....not much to say about sound. Rather generic I guess when it comes to sound effects. Some guys complain about the strange noises that the characters make, a short of 'blipping'. I think its the best that could be done for a portable game. Hell at least you can tell someones getting smacked around. Still, I personally love the music. I guess it might take a certain wack like me to truely appreciate things like this, but the music is really catchy. I often find myself listening to the BGM tracks just for tunes.

Control: C++

This is where I run a bit of a snag. Although I love the NGPC's stick, I find it at times hard to pull off the moves. Perhaps its just because I lack the skill (Yes I admit) but the control can get a bit ...er....aggravating. Still, Its no huge obstacle and I'd wager most players who can play any of the other fighters will have no problem. I just need to practice more I guess...

GamePlay: A-

Gameplay is pretty good in First Contact; basic NGPC fighting game stuff. As the same with any other fighter on the NGPC, the duration for which you press the buttons determines the strength and speed of the attack. Each of the 12 characters has a few super moves and different variations of combos. Theres also little things like the breakshot, similar to the Alpha Counters of the Street Fight Alpha series, that add a bit more to the game's fighting. The mighty mauler moves are pretty wicked when you pull them off at the right time too. The AI can be a vicious little dog when it gets you in the corner though, and the fighters' attacks execute a bit too slow for my tastes. Blasted pocket fighters are too stubby I guess.

Replay: C- -

Well this is what it really boils down to the First Contact. The thing that kills it. Theres just not enough modes or much of anything that makes you keep playing. Aside from the catchy tunes and pretty great fighting action, you can only play in the one or two player modes. This detracts a heck of a lot when comepared to MOTM. No secrets other than Alfred or mini games either. A bit of a drag mate.

Overall View: B-

Well what can I say? Fatal Fury: First Contact is a game not suited for everyone. Its definitely a game that Fatal Fury fanatics, and I think, old school fighting game nuts will like, but the casual masses or sticklers might want to sit out. Whatever, I still like those tunes.

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