Raido's Stuff - PS2 - KOF Maximum Impact: Regluation "A"

English Title: KOF Maximum Impact: Regluation "A"
Japanese Title: KOF マキシマムインパクトレギュレーション "A"
Publisher: SNK Playmore
Developer: Noise Factory
Genre: Fighting
Released: Jul. 26, 2007
Product Codes: SLPS-25765 / JAN 4964808300921

The rebalanced, tournament-ready (?) update of KOF Maximum Impact 2, or as it's confusingly known internationally, The King of Fighters 2006. I've always had a bit of a soft spot for the Max Impact series, despite Falcoon's often excessively-flamboyant character designs. They have the same precision playfulness as the 2D games, making for enjoyably spectacular matches even if neither player is particularly good at the game.

In addition to rebalancing the game, this release adds four new characters (including Blue Mary and Ash Crimson), strips out all the story and extra modes from the original release, and leaves everything else unlocked from the get-go. It's missing the silly mini-games like punching the Metal Slug tank, and has far fewer costumes available, but the action itself is in top form. Unless you absolutely need the extra fan service from the original release, this is the best entry in the series... and unfortunately, also the last.