Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

SNK vs. Capcom: The Match of the Millennium offers an astonishingly deep fighting experience on the Neo Geo Pocket Color, boasting 18 characters on the roster from the start and another 8 unlockable fighters for a total of 26. Whether you’re a purist who prefers one-on-one duels or a strategist who enjoys mixing up tactics, the game’s Single, Tag, and Team modes provide ample flexibility. Matches are crisp and responsive, making for satisfying combos and counterattacks even on a handheld device.

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The SC Olympic mode is a standout feature that breaks up the traditional fighting formula with clever minigames and challenges. From a rhythm-based music game starring Felicia to a frantic whack-a-mole challenge with Jubei, these diversions reward players with gold, silver, or bronze medals based on performance. This mode not only adds variety but also extends the replay value, as accumulating medals unlocks new characters and extra features.

Link play is another highlight, allowing head-to-head NGPC battles via cable or even data exchange with select Dreamcast titles. Trading stats and unlocking exclusive content through the NGPC-to-Dreamcast link brings a novel layer of connectivity rarely seen in handheld fighters of its era. Whether you’re practicing solo or sparring with friends, the multiplayer options keep the action fresh and competitive.

Graphics

Despite the Neo Geo Pocket Color’s modest resolution, SNK vs. Capcom delivers vibrant, well-defined sprites that capture the essence of each character’s personality and fighting style. The artists have managed to retain the charm of their arcade counterparts, with expressive animations for normals, specials, and super moves. Character portraits and win poses are particularly polished, giving each fight a satisfying visual payoff.

Backgrounds are colorful yet uncluttered, ensuring that the on-screen action remains clear even in the most hectic moments. Stage designs draw inspiration from classic SNK and Capcom locales, from bustling cityscapes to mystical temples, each rendered with a tasteful palette that pops under the handheld’s backlit display. Animation frames feel smooth, with little to no noticeable slowdown—even when both players unleash hyper modes or large projectile attacks.

The UI and menu screens are equally well designed, with crisp text and intuitive icons that guide the player through character selection, mode choices, and unlockable content. Transition animations between modes and loading screens are swift, minimizing downtime and keeping you immersed in the game. Overall, the graphical presentation punches well above its weight for a late-’90s portable fighter.

Story

As with many crossover fighters, the narrative in SNK vs. Capcom: The Match of the Millennium takes a backseat to the action, but it still offers a loose framework that ties the roster together. Brief intros and character endings reveal motivations behind each fighter’s participation, from heroic SNK champions defending their realms to Capcom icons seeking new challenges. These vignettes add charm without slowing the core gameplay.

Character interactions are a fan favorite, showcasing playful banter and surprising alliances. Dialogue exchanges before and after bouts highlight the quirks and rivalries between universes—such as Ryu’s stoic respect for Terry Bogard or Chun-Li’s fierce determination against Mai Shiranui. While not a deep plot-driven experience, these snippets provide enough context to make each matchup feel meaningful.

Unlockable endings further reward dedicated players, offering little comic relief or dramatic flair that encourages you to revisit the arcade ladder with different team compositions. The lighthearted tone and cross-universe chemistry are more than enough to keep you invested, even if you’re simply chasing roster completion or experimenting with all tag-team permutations.

Overall Experience

SNK vs. Capcom: The Match of the Millennium stands out as one of the most comprehensive fighting games ever released for the Neo Geo Pocket Color. Its robust roster, diverse modes, and addictive Olympic minigames ensure that there’s always a new challenge around the corner. Whether you’re a seasoned fighting-game veteran or a newcomer looking for portable thrills, this title delivers hours of polished combat.

Portability is where the game truly shines. Quick matches make it perfect for short bursts of play, while deeper sessions can be enjoyed solo or via link cable against friends. The inclusion of NGPC-to-Dreamcast data exchange is a delightful bonus for those who own compatible console titles, rewarding cross-system loyalty with unique unlocks.

In today’s retro-revival landscape, SNK vs. Capcom: The Match of the Millennium remains a benchmark for handheld fighters. Its blend of responsive controls, charming visuals, and wide variety of modes offers tremendous value. For collectors, casual players, or fighting-game enthusiasts alike, this crossover gem is a must-have addition to any Neo Geo Pocket Color library.

Retro Replay Score

8.4/10