SNK’s King of Fighters 15 has been dropping character trailers in anticipation of the game’s 2021 release date. The latest trailer features long-time King of Fighters veteran Benimaru Nikaido and his signature electrokinetic move set.
While Benimaru was confirmed as a King of Fighters 15 combatant by a teaser trailer last December, this video officially unveils his Flying Drill kick and electrifying Raijinken punch. The trailer highlights the fast-paced fighting style that has made him a fearsome competitor since his appearance in the series’ first installment, The King of Fighters ’94.
Though his move set and towering hairdo are a familiar sight, his Hero Team allies might come as a bit of a surprise. Developer SNK has always divided its characters into teams, often decided by geographic locations or various team motivations. Benimaru is most commonly found fighting alongside series regulars Kyo Kusanagi and Goro Daimon on the Japan Team. The end of the trailer reveals that Benimaru is joining Shun’ei and the recently revealed Meitenkun on Hero Team. It is surprising to see Benimaru separated from his usual comrades, perhaps foreshadowing events in King of Fighters 15’s story.
Fairly little is known about King of Fighters 15 outside of a few characters and the art direction. The only information known about the release is it will be some time in 2021. During the first official character trailer for King of Fighters 15, creative director Eisuke Ogura said the game “will differ greatly” from the last title, and that this entry will be SNK’s “most ambitious KOF yet.”
The mysteries behind this team shake-up may have to wait until King of Fighters 15’s release later this year. Fans should keep an eye out for upcoming character trailers, as they may provide more clarity surrounding the mysteries of the KOF 15 teams.
King of Fighters 15 is slated to release in 2021.