Retro gamers looking for something special to play during the holidays now have an excellent option on the Nintendo Switch. SNK is bringing back a truly classic fighting game from a rare platform, the Neo Geo Pocket Color. Originally released in 1999, Nintendo Switch console owners can now purchase and play Fatal Fury: First Contact once more. Further, the fighting game can be played with up to two players. Fatal Fury: First Contact retails for $7.99.
The Fatal Fury franchise was one of the most exciting series of the 90s. But by 1999, it didn't have the same energy as it had between 1991 and 1995. It was still a popular brand, however, making it perfect for the launch window of Neo Geo's handheld console. Fatal Fury: First Contact ended up being one of the last Fatal Fury games ever made, but it still delivered a unique fighting game experience. And, more than anything, it still featured Terry, Geese, Mai, and many of Fatal Fury's most popular characters.
The New Geo Pocket Color unfortunately went the same way as the Fatal Fury franchise after Fatal Fury: First Contact's release. Less than a year after the Neo Geo Pocket Color's release, SNK collapsed and was acquired by a pachinko game manufacturer. Six months later, SNK's new owners abandoned the western markets entirely, discontinuing Neo Geo hardware. That makes games like Fatal Fury: First Contact a rarity and something special to experience.
Fatal Fury: First Contact is just one of several games coming to the Nintendo Switch from SNK's Neo Geo Pocket Color Selection. It's a series of Pocket Color games being rereleased just for the Switch. Other titles include SNK Gals' Fighters, King of Fighters R-2, Samurai Shodown! 2, and The Last Blade: Beyond the Destiny. SNK also teases that more games are coming to the Switch soon.
Fatal Fury: First Contact is available now on Nintendo Switch.