My Played Video Games Review: Killer Instinct for the Super Nintendo

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Killer Instinct is a kind of hybrid 2D/3D fighting game developed by Rare and published by Nintendo. First released in arcades by Midway in 1994, the game was later ported to the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and the Game Boy handheld console in 1995. It features a cool but unique mix of traditional 2D fighting mechanics with 3D-rendered graphics and rapid combo-heavy gameplay.

For many old-school fighting gamers, Killer Instinct's name bring sparks of nostalgia. In the later years of the Super Nintendo, Developer Rare surprised everyone by diving into the fighting game genre with its release of Killer Instinct. Despite its flaws, it is a solid title featuring several unique characters, memorable music, and impressive graphics for its time.

Arcade advertisement poster (Image source)

The Story

Glacius, Jago, B. Orchid, Cinder, and the rest of your favorite warrior-contestants face off in the Ultratech Killer Instinct Tournament! Each fighter boasts of devastating combos and finishing moves to crush their opponents. With eye beams, ice lances, wind kicks, and laser blades, these fierce combatants showcase their power and skill. But beware; if you lose, it is damn straight from hero to zero!

Cartridge of the game. (Image source)

The Graphics and Sound

The arcade version boasted cutting-edge 64-bit graphics, giving players a sneak peek at the future of gaming with the SNES successor, the Nintendo 64. Naturally, the Super Nintendo, being a 16-bit system, could not fully copy the arcade's visuals. However, developer Rare did an impressive job adapting the game for the SNES. By utilizing their Advanced Computer Modeling (ACM) graphics (which was famously used in Donkey Kong Country) they managed to create a recognizable and visually appealing port of this version.

The audio was another challenge. While the SNES does not have CD-quality sound like the arcade, the music and sound effects come close, with everything in stereo. However, some compromising changes were necessary. The soundtrack was compressed to fit the SNES hardware, resulting in a slight fuzziness in the music. For most tracks, this is not a big issue, but certain cuts were heavily shortened.

Gameplay video sample of Killer Instinct on the SNES in 2 player vs. matches. Watch in 360p for near TV resolution of that time.

The Gameplay

This SNES version shines in its gameplay, staying true to the arcade experience. All ten fighters are present, and they retain their full move sets. For those who loved the secrets and codes of the arcade version, good news: they have all been ported over as well. The signature gameplay elements, like hearing every combo announced and the iconic “Danger!” warning, remain intact, ensuring an authentic Killer Instinct experience. Even the famous sky stages are here, allowing you to knock opponents off ledges for dramatic, multi-story falls. Fighter color customizations from the arcade are here too.

To make up for the minor sacrifices in audio and visuals, Rare and Nintendo sweetened the deal with two exclusive new modes: Practice Mode and Tournament Mode. Practice Mode lets you try your skills with any fighter on any stage, facing an immobile opponent that does not take damage, so you can perfect your moves and combos. Tournament Mode, on the other hand, allows up to 8 players to compete in a bracket-style series of matches, complete with name input for making records. These additions make the SNES version more than just a simple port; they enhance its replay value and appeal.

My Verdict

While the arcade version of Killer Instinct might still hold a special place for purists, it is a rare find unless you play through an emulator and often the real arcade machine is damn expensive. This SNES version is a far more accessible and affordable option. Despite its slightly toned-down graphics and compressed audio, it is an impressive translation that keeps the core gameplay and even adds some exclusive features. If you are a fan of fighting games or Killer Instinct in particular, this is worth picking up.

Play it on the marvelous Super Nintendo/Super Famicom or play it on a well-enjoyed emulator.

Let's keep on gaming in the free world!

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