Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

SNK Arcade Classics Vol. 1 delivers a feast of genres, bringing together sixteen of SNK’s most iconic arcade experiences under one roof. From side-scrolling beat ’em ups like Burning Fight and Shock Troopers to high-octane run-and-gun action in Metal Slug and Last Resort, the compilation faithfully reproduces the tight controls and responsive inputs that defined the original cabinets. Fighting-game fans will appreciate the inclusion of genre-defining classics such as Art of Fighting, Fatal Fury, Samurai Shodown and The King of Fighters ’94, which all run at the intended speed and feel true to their arcade roots.

A standout feature is the integrated “Goal” system, which adds a modern twist to these retro titles. Each game offers a set of objectives—from pulling off specific combos in the fighting games to completing levels under a time limit in Top Hunter. Achieving these goals not only encourages you to explore hidden mechanics but also unlocks concept art, soundtracks and gameplay videos showcasing secret areas. This meta-gameplay loop breathes new life into titles that might otherwise be one-and-done experiences.

Multiplayer modes remain true to the arcade experience, supporting two-player co-op or versus matches in compatible titles. While online play is noticeably absent, local two-player action preserves the social spirit of arcade cabinets. Difficulty ramps up in classic SNK fashion, offering a genuine challenge for newcomers and a nostalgic trip for veterans craving scoreboard supremacy.

Graphics

Visually, SNK Arcade Classics Vol. 1 strikes a balance between faithful emulation and modern presentation. Each pixel art sprite—whether it’s the towering kaiju in King of the Monsters or the detailed backgrounds of Neo Turf Masters—is rendered crisply, with minimal visual artifacts. On the default display, you can choose between a sharp, pixel-perfect mode or a gently softened “cabinet filter” that emulates the look of an old CRT monitor.

While the compilation doesn’t add high-definition upgrades, the original animations and backgrounds remain vibrant. Magician Lord’s color palette still shines, and the frantic sprite work of Super Sidekicks 3 is as bright and bold as ever. Occasional slowdown in frenetic sections of Metal Slug or multiple-enemy encounters in Burning Fight is faithful to the original hardware’s limitations, preserving the authentic challenge (and charm) of mid-’90s arcades.

The unlockable artwork gallery is a welcome bonus for enthusiasts. As you achieve goals, you gain access to rare concept sketches, promotional posters and even sprite sheets—perfect for appreciating the craftsmanship behind SNK’s visual identity. Soundtracks unlock alongside them, offering a chance to relive Hayato and Yuri’s theme music in pristine form.

Story

Most titles in this compilation feature compact narratives that serve as context for the action rather than deep, immersive sagas. In The King of Fighters ’94 and Fatal Fury, the tournaments provide enough back-story to drive the combat, with each character’s intro and ending giving a glimpse into rivalries and motivations. Similarly, Samurai Shodown’s feudal-era setting evokes atmosphere without bogging down the pace.

Bearing more simplistic premises, games like Baseball Stars 2 and Neo Turf Masters focus squarely on sports strategy and arcade-style competition. Here, the “story” emerges through match-by-match progression, underdog comebacks and the thrill of clutch home runs. Even titles without traditional narratives—such as Sengoku’s time-traveling brawl or Shock Troopers’ pandemic-era rescue mission—offer enough framing to keep you invested during solo runs.

Although there’s no unified storyline tying these disparate classics together, the compilation’s menu system provides brief introductions for each game. Combined with the unlockable move lists and gameplay videos, SNK Arcade Classics Vol. 1 gives just enough lore and context to appreciate each title’s setting and characters without sacrificing the immediacy of arcade action.

Overall Experience

SNK Arcade Classics Vol. 1 is a love letter to arcade aficionados and a gateway for newcomers to experience the golden age of 16-bit gaming. The intuitive interface makes it easy to browse titles, track your goal progress and jump right into multiplayer sessions. Though online matchmaking would have been a welcome addition, the local co-op and versus modes successfully recreate the camaraderie of arcade side-by-side play.

For value-conscious buyers, the sheer breadth of content is compelling: sixteen full games, achievements, galleries, soundtracks and gameplay videos all on one disc. The balanced difficulty curve—from approachable early levels to brutal boss gauntlets—ensures there’s always another challenge waiting. Collectors will appreciate the unlockable extras, while casual players can dip in and out thanks to save states and goal tracking.

Ultimately, SNK Arcade Classics Vol. 1 delivers a faithful arcade compilation that stands the test of time. Whether you’re chasing high scores in World Heroes, perfecting drop kicks in Art of Fighting or simply reliving the nostalgia of pixel art and chiptune soundtracks, this package offers an engaging, informative and thoroughly entertaining retrospective of SNK’s arcade legacy.

Retro Replay Score

7.3/10