SNK Presents the Visual Style of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves
The next installment of the iconic fighting saga, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, builds its graphical section on the foundation of Unreal Engine. SNK defines its visual philosophy as stylized photorealistic art, a concept that does not resort to traditional cel-shading, but instead processes high-complexity 3D models to preserve the essence of the company's classic sprites. 🎮
Unreal Engine Powers Animation and Special Effects
The fluidity in movements and the impact of each strike directly depend on the engine's capabilities. The REV (Revolutionary Value) system overlays high-intensity graphical layers during fights, making the player perceive each impact with greater force. These elements merge with the overall artistic style to generate a cohesive fighting experience, where explosions and fast transitions are an integral part of the gameplay mechanics.
Key Features of the REV System:- Adds real-time impact visual effects during combos.
- Intensifies visual feedback for critical hits and special moves.
- Integrates with lighting and shading to maintain aesthetic coherence.
Stylized photorealistic art seeks a middle ground between the 2D legacy and current 3D expectations.
Stylized Photorealistic Art as a Generational Bridge
This approach aims to address the challenge of evolving a saga with roots in 2D arcades toward contemporary visual standards. Characters and scenarios are modeled with a level of detail close to photographic, but a specific treatment in lighting and shading is applied that evokes hand-drawn artwork and the franchise's traditional identity.
Objectives of the Artistic Approach:- Create detailed 3D models that pay homage to the original sprite designs.
- Use lighting and shadows to stylize the models and avoid raw realism.
- Offer a modern visual look that preserves Fatal Fury's recognizable identity.
Preparing the Return to South Town
With this technical and artistic approach, SNK not only updates the visual power of its series but also protects its classic soul. The result is a fighting game that aims to honor its past while competing in the current visual landscape. Every K.O. promises not only to sound impactful but also to show a level of detail that contrasts with the pixels of 90s arcade machines. ⚡