The most famous part of King of Fighters, which is the link between the first era of KoF (Ryugal, Goenitz and Orochi) and the second (Ziro and Ignitz). It contains all (well, almost) characters from KoF94-97, even Ryugal and Saisu from KoF'95. Many characters have an alternate version with different moves (try holding Start when choosing Terry or Kyo). The gameplay is pretty much the same as in KoF'97, but the balance is much better and many characters get new hits (Kim and Shingo among them). Of particular note is the music. This part contains all the best that was before in King of Fighters, so it deserved such popularity.
This fighting game differs markedly from the previous parts of The King of Fighters series. The meaning and plot of the game remained the same. Now your attention is represented by as many as thirty-eight fighters to choose from. Each has its own set of moves and special attacks. The level of detail of players and stages has become much higher. Management here is already much softer compared to the previous parts. This made it much easier to play.