Fatal Fury has just announced a bold partnership with Bosnian-Swedish DJ Salvatore Ganacci. Known for his performances and irreverent approach to electronic music, the artist will be a playable character in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, a new title in the classic fighting game franchise, scheduled for April 24, 2025. The new release marks an unprecedented moment in the series, by bringing a real-life character into the game's cast.
In addition to participating in the fights in South Town, an iconic setting in the franchise, Ganacci acts as the project's music curator. He coordinated the collaboration with 11 other renowned DJs, responsible for composing 19 original tracks that will be present in the combat arenas. These songs will be available both during battles and in Jukebox Mode, a feature that allows players to create personalized playlists and define specific tracks for the game's scenarios.
In the plot, the character Salvatore arrives in South Town in search of inspiration for his next anime music video. Driven by his friend Duck King, he decides to enter the KOF (King of Fighters) tournament to find the creative spark he lacks. Combining elements of martial arts with the performative gestures of the stage, the fighter mixes rhythm, technique and sonic chaos, challenging opponents with unpredictable and stylish attacks.
New phase of the franchise focuses on aesthetic innovation and accessibility
Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves represents the rebirth of one of SNK's most iconic franchises. Ever since the release of Garou: Mark of the Wolves in 1999, fans have been waiting for a sequel to match its fame. Now, after 26 years, it's back with a vengeance. The new game features a fresh look, improved gameplay, and combat systems that promise to please veterans and newcomers alike.
Among the main innovations is the REV system, which adds intensity to combat and expands strategic possibilities. The game will also feature two distinct control schemes: one aimed at beginners and another for experienced players. The idea is to democratize access and allow everyone to enjoy the experience with fluidity and challenge.
The aesthetics are also striking. With its own dynamic art style, the game's visuals mix classic references from the series with modern elements. The streets of South Town are once again the stage for clashes between iconic characters and new additions, such as Ganacci. The city, marked by ambition and rivalry, serves as the ideal setting for the emergence of a new ring legend.
Pre-sale has already started and special edition guarantees exclusive content
Pre-orders for the special edition of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves began on August 21, 2024. In addition to the full game, the version includes Season Pass 1, which grants access to additional characters released throughout 2025 and early 2026. The game will be available for the PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S and PC platforms, both via Steam and the Epic Games Store.
Players who purchase the PlayStation 4 edition will be able to upgrade to the PS5 version for free, as long as they use a console with a disc drive. An internet connection will be required to access all of the game's content.
The partnership with Salvatore Ganacci will also be highlighted on a special website dedicated to the collaboration. There, fans will be able to learn more about the soundtrack creation process, behind-the-scenes curation, and the DJ's impact on the production of the title. The union between electronic music and fighting games promises to attract both fans of the franchise and audiences from the global music scene.
Between nostalgia and boldness, SNK seeks new audience for classic series
The return of Fatal Fury comes at a time when the fighting game market is experiencing a new boom, driven by high-profile releases and the expansion of the competitive scene. By incorporating artists like Salvatore Ganacci, SNK is reaching out to a wider audience, connected to other forms of entertainment and pop culture.
Ganacci, who was already known for his out-of-the-ordinary performances, now transforms into a character who defies conventions within a universe that has always valued originality. This fusion of stage and ring, music and fighting, marks a new phase for the franchise — one that respects the legacy, but is not afraid to innovate.
Set to be released in April, City of the Wolves has everything it needs to establish itself as one of the most anticipated titles of the year. By betting on creative connections and accessible game systems, SNK shows that it still knows how to stay relevant — and surprise the public, even after three decades of history.