King of Fighters '97 introduces the Advance and Extra system giving gameplay a new tactical dimension. One of the finest series entries with a well-constructed Orochi Arc narrative. Fights are balanced and intense. A KOF series pinnacle on PS1.
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Category
Fighting2 players12+
Description
Conclusion of the Orochi arc in the SNK series, 2D versus fighter between teams of three fighters. Created by SNK, released in 1998 in Japan under the The King of Fighters 97 title. Twenty-nine fighters in teams or singles, two Advanced and Extra modes, narrative climax around Orochi, detailed sprites and arcade soundtrack. Japanese edition.
King of Fighters '97, The review
3/5
Art direction
★★★★★
"Polished"
3/5
Music
★★★★★
"Memorable"
2/5
Story
★★★★★
"Classic"
Gameplay
"Excellent"
Fun
"From the very first minutes"
Addictiveness
"Captivating"
Difficulty
"Difficult"
Lifespan
"Long"
Technical info
💾0,2 GB📅28/05/1998
Published by SNK
King of Fighters '97, The (PS1) price, value & rarity
Complete: box, manual and disc/cart very clean. Lightly handled.
Q1 damagedQ6 completeQ10 new
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Collector interest
A console port of The King of Fighters '97, which closes the Orochi saga at the heart of the series' lore and marks a peak of SNK's golden age. This Japanese version is prized by versus fans for its pivotal place in the KOF chronology. Its limited local run and narrative standing support a value above more ordinary fighting conversions.
Better with friends
A standout iteration of the team tournament, more offensive and mobile, making the competition lively and nervy. Dodging, dashing in and landing your decisive blow at the right moment is the whole nuance of the face-offs between savvy players. Easy to pick up yet deep to master, it forges stubborn rivalries and calls for long versus evenings where you stack up rematches.
Is King of Fighters '97, The still worth playing in 2026?
King of Fighters '97 introduces the Advance and Extra system, giving gameplay a new tactical dimension. One of the series' best entries with a well-constructed Orochi Arc narrative, SNK sets the bar high. The Orochi arc's writing reaches a dramatic peak, and the cast is memorable. An absolute classic today.
