King of Fighters 2003 introducing the mid-match character change system. This new mechanic opens new strategies but divides the community. An important entry in the series' evolution, marking the transition towards the KOF XI system.
Your verdict
Category
Fighting2 players12+
Description
The first KOF of the Tales of Ash saga, released in arcades in 2003 and ported to PS2 between 2004 and 2006 (EU, Japan, Asia, Korea, US). A major innovation: a three-character tag system that lets players switch fighters mid-bout. A radically renewed roster built around Ash Crimson, the new protagonist.
King of Fighters 2003, 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
💾0,47 GB📅23/06/2005
Published by SNK Playmore
King of Fighters 2003, The (PS2) price, value & rarity
Is King of Fighters 2003, The still worth playing in 2026?
The 2003 entry of SNK's versus fighter, The King of Fighters 2003 introduces mid fight teammate switching, which energises the three on three formula by allowing relays and shared combos between characters. The freshness of this mechanic, the full roster and the polished pixel art renew the saga's interest. The demanding pace and a debated balance call for mastery. A good 2D fighting game for fans of the King of Fighters series and old fashioned team brawling.
