The KOF Series’ storyline has been continuing over the Orochi, Nests, and Ash story arcs. KOF’s rich story has not finished, and returns in a brand new exciting arc. The game visuals have evolved into 3D graphics, however rest assured that The King of Fighters XIV keeps the classic 2D gameplay and three-on-three team battle game system.

Although the classic 3 vs. 3 battle system is unchanged in KOF XIV, the perfectionists at SNK Playmore have made some notable updates to the fighting engine.

From streamlining controls to improving the Combo and MAX Mode mechanics, the developers have worked tirelessly to bring hardcore fans and newcomers the most competitive, but accessible, game in KOF history. Did we mention that the graphics are now fully rendered in 3D? Players will beat their opponents senseless while experiencing the new visual style of the 50 fighters (all of whom are available in-game at launch), and movesets! In addition to numerous popular, returning KOF characters, many new characters involved in the storyline will enter the ring for the first time!

There's also a brand new Party Battle feature that lets two teams of three human players duke it out via online play.

The King of Fighters XIV demo will be available on the PlayStation Store worldwide on July 19 for the Americas/Europe and July 20 for Asia!

Players will finally be able to slake their burning KOF thirst by test driving seven characters (Kyo Kusanagi, Mai Shiranui, Iori Yagami, Sylvie Paula Paula, King of Dinosaurs, Shun'ei, and Nelson) before the game launches. While the demo won't have online functionality, local versus mode will be available.

Oh, and the demo will also come with a free dynamic PS4 theme!

With series first 3D graphics, updated gameplay such as a complete overhaul to Combos and MAX Mode, and more, the demo will show just how much SNK has evolved the nearly 22 year old franchise.

Key Features:

• 3D Evolution: All 50 fighters, movesets and more are rendered in full 3D graphics that preserves the essence of KOF's visual style but updates it with a whole new dimension.
• The Best Refinement since KOF '98: Through extensive playtesting and balancing, the controls have been streamlined, and the Combo and Max Mode mechanics have been overhauled to create the most competitive fighter in SNK's history.
• The KOF Saga Continues: There's a robust single-player storyline where several years have passed since the previous KOF tournament. Now a worldwide business, the global KOF will decide who is the strongest as both individuals and companies with their own ambitions have come to compete. Players compete against CPU-controlled opponents to unlock the storyline.
• The Best Roster Yet: There are 50 fighters total, with 31 returning from previous entries into the KOF series, and 19 brand new characters. All 50 characters will be available at the game's launch.
• Revamped Online Experience: The King of Fighters XIV has devoted a lot of development time to improving the game's netcode for vastly improved online gameplay. KOF XIV uses the PS4's online architecture to have a whole host of online conveniences, from spectating to saving replay/battle data, and having a single online KOF XIV profile to connect with friends.

The King of Fighters XIV will be available for $59.99/CA$79.99 at launch.