THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV gets a balance update on July 2
SNK Corporation is pleased to announce that its team-based fighting game, THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV (hereafter KOF XV), will receive a balance update on July 2, 2026.
Balance adjustments across the entire roster
The KOF XV roster is vast and varied, featuring series protagonists (Kyo Kusanagi, K', Ash Crimson, and Shun'ei), beloved staples like Terry Bogard, newer additions such as Rock Howard, and even classic fighters who return as DLC (including Mature and Vice). The July 2 update will refine balance for the entire lineup – 61 characters in total. Get ready to shatter all expectations once again.
THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV (2022)
The 15th mainline title and most recent installment in the KOF series. Released six years after the previous entry (KOF XIV), it is an ode to the franchise's storied legacy, with all four protagonists from throughout KOF history (Kyo Kusanagi, K', Ash Crimson, and Shun'ei) appearing on the roster.
THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV retains the franchise's trademark three-on-three team format while incorporating new and improved systems of its own: from the enhanced MAX Mode and MAX Mode (Quick) to the offense-defense hybrid that is Shatter Strike.
Ignite each fight with simple auto-combos (the Rush system), thrilling special moves and supers, and dynamic action the likes of which KOF has never seen before.
KOF Series Overview
A team-based fighting game franchise developed and published by SNK, beginning in 1994 with THE KING OF FIGHTERS '94 – renowned for being the first title in the genre to focus on three-on-three battles. These multi-member bouts require a different strategic approach than traditional one on one, with the inherent excitement and intensity leading to many dramatic comebacks mid-fight. For these reasons, KOF titles remain an esport tournament staple worldwide.
The King of Fighters is heralded as a dream match of a franchise, with characters from other beloved SNK titles (FATAL FURY, ART OF FIGHTING, IKARI WARRIORS, PSYCHO SOLDIER) making appearances over the years. With over 150 characters to its name, KOF is undeniably one of SNK's most prominent IPs.