Two great games in one pack.
KoF 2002, is a standard fare KOF game, containing nothing exactly new from the rest of the KOF games, you pick three fighters, then pick the order you want them. Unlike all of the other KOFs, while each one brings something NEW to the table, this one feels and plays alot like KoF 95, only faster. The only things this game has going for it is a storyline that answeres a question most of the hardcore followers had on their lips. Rugal has returned and starts KOF again. Graphically, nothing has changed between this and KoF 99, but it does make up for this by having a large cast of characters, including unlockables from KoF 96-2001, totaling 44 characters. The graphical and audio quality is obviously shown it's age since it uses the standard fare Neo Geo arcade engine making only the hardest of hardcore gamers appreciate them. The combat is staandard fare KoF, which hereby gives button mashers no excuse since the controls require precision and timing.
2002 Summary:
Standard KoF that doesn't bring ANYTHING new to the table
Tons of characters
Return of Rugal
Now we'll get into the 2003 game
We got here a fantastic game, definetly the YANG to the YIN of this collection. Fast combat, great story, graphical upgrades, and a great new combat system. The story takes a bit of a remaneance towards KoF 97, we finally have a Hero Team that's actually a trio of villians hellbent on resurecting Orochi. The combat system in the game is a big step forward as it is MUCH faster than the rest of the games in the series. You pick the characters, one leaders and two supporters, the leader character has the option of duing extremely powerful super-moves at the cost of two super bars. Plus you can switch between characters DURING battle. Graphics and audio got a bit of an upgrade from it's standard fare Neo Geo. Tons of endings that change depedning on how you play.
2003 summary:
Good story
Tons of new and exciting characters
GREAT combat
Plot twists up the wazoo
Both games have online play for the XBox.