King of Fighters 2002, the return to fundamentals after 2001's controversies. Removing Strikers and the clean combat system make it highly appreciated by competitive players. Often cited among the series' best entries alongside '98 for its gameplay depth.
Your verdict
Category
Fighting2 players12+
Description
A PS2 port by Eolith and SNK Playmore, originally a 2002 arcade game and brought to PS2 between 2003 and 2004 (Europe, Japan, Asia, Korea). A return to fundamentals after the Strikers: teams of three with no assists, compact but formidable roster. Considered one of the most balanced and most played KOF entries of the decade.
King of Fighters 2002, The review
4/5
Art direction
★★★★★
"Striking"
4/5
Music
★★★★★
"Excellent"
2/5
Story
★★★★★
"Classic"
Gameplay
"Solid"
Fun
"From the very first minutes"
Addictiveness
"Captivating"
Difficulty
"Difficult"
Lifespan
"Long"
Technical info
💾0,27 GB📅22/12/2004
Published by SNK Playmore
King of Fighters 2002, The (PS2) price, value & rarity
Is King of Fighters 2002, The still worth playing in 2026?
The 2002 entry of SNK's versus fighter, The King of Fighters 2002 drops the Striker system to return to purer three on three team combat, celebrated for its balance and its sprawling roster gathering the saga's headliners. The precision of the combos, the readability of the clashes and the polished pixel art make it one of the most appreciated entries in the series. The demanding pace calls for mastery. An excellent 2D fighting game for fans of the King of Fighters series and technical brawling.
