SNK Teases Ken in Fatal Fury, Chun-Li DLC & Capcom Collab at Evo 2025

The most thrilling highlight of Evo 2025 was undoubtedly Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves. From KojiKOG's viral reaction after his top 8 elimination to the electrifying grand finals showdown between Go1 and ET, every moment reinforced why fighting games remain so captivating. Though I couldn't connect with SNK representatives onsite, Producer Yasuyuki Oda and Animator Masanori Obari generously responded via email about Ken's debut in City of the Wolves and other topics SNK fans will appreciate.

When testing Ken, I was surprised by his similarity to Street Fighter 6's version despite different game mechanics. What challenges arose when adapting such an iconic character across franchises?
Yasuyuki Oda, Lead Producer: Our primary focus was integrating Ken into Fatal Fury's universe without losing his core identity. Many team members are passionate Street Fighter fans, and their dedication shows in Ken's meticulous adaptation. We carefully translated his signature speed and fire techniques into City of the Wolves' systems through constant refinement - analyzing strengths, identifying improvements, and ensuring his gameplay feels uniquely Fatal Fury while honoring his legacy.

Given Ken's dominance in SF6 through tools like Jinrai Kick pressure and Dragon Lash, were there concerns about balancing his power level in Fatal Fury?
Oda: Directly porting SF6 Ken would certainly create imbalance. We meticulously adjusted his toolkit while implementing Braking and REV Accel mechanics to preserve his essence within City of the Wolves' gameplay. The result showcases Ken's character while offering fresh strategic possibilities - we're excited to see how players utilize him.

With ongoing crossovers between SNK and Capcom characters, is there potential for reviving Capcom vs. SNK?

That would be exciting, wouldn't it?

"

Oda: That would be exciting, wouldn't it? While we can't announce anything currently, these questions energize us immensely. Fan enthusiasm for another crossover fuels our motivation daily.

What's your perspective on guest characters impacting fighting game ecosystems?

Oda: When handled respectfully, crossovers generate incredible creative energy - sparking unexpected gameplay chemistry while honoring each franchise's identity. For City of the Wolves, our immediate focus remains completing the core roster before considering additional guest characters post-Mr. Big's release.

Regarding Chun-Li's eventual arrival, will she follow Ken's SF6-inspired adaptation approach?

We're preparing some special touches - envisioning this Chun-Li as embodying her entire legacy."

Oda: While using SF6 as foundation, our Street Fighter-loving team is incorporating nostalgic elements from her history. Expect Chun-Li to represent her complete evolution through thoughtful details and surprises.

Obari-san, what artistic liberties did you take animating Ken outside SNK's universe?

Masanori Obari, Animator: This project was an immense honor. My "Bari-Ken" approach blended signature animation styles - crafting familiar movesets with Fatal Fury's distinctive flair. Translating Ken into our anime aesthetic proved incredibly rewarding.

Any dream collaborations beyond fighting games?

A professional wrestling crossover would be phenomenal.

"

Obari: As a lifelong wrestling fan, collaborating with actual wrestlers would be phenomenal. Within gaming, I'd love revisiting Voltage Fighter Gowcaizer - my first character design project.

Finally, who wins canonically: Ken or Terry?

Obari: Honestly? Terry's resilience would prevail. Their skills match, but Terry's burdens forge greater determination. Though as an anime director, I'd prefer teaming them against a shared rival!