When you buy the Nintendo Switch Online subscription, you get a slew of retro games through the platform's online library of older titles. Of course, there is a step above just the regular ole service with the higher tier, the Expansion Pack. However, you don't have to ??pony up for more just to play some treasured classics.

For those of you looking ??to sample some of Nintendo's retro library, I've got some suggestions on where to start with the now 100-tile collection of classics. These are the best games for the base Nintendo Switch Online subscription.

The 10 best games to play on Nintendo Switch Online

Since we're excluding Expansion Pack titles, the following games are from either the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Game Boy, or Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). If a game you like from these catalogs and they aren't o??n the list, fr?et not �?these are just the best of the best in a massive library beloved by many of us.

10. Tecmo Bowl (NES)

Sports games and Nintendo don’t go hand-in-hand now unless Mario is involved, but Tecmo Bowl is an exception.?? Despite being a game from the late �?0s, this one still holds up a lot better than most modern American football games. It’s simple enough to break into even for the folks not quite so sports savvy and there's no overly convoluted set of controls just ??to get your players moving.

9. Metroid (NES)

The Nintendo Switch was made for sidescrolling games, namely Metroidvanias. So, why not take a trip back to the late '80s and see the game that started it all? The original NES Metroid definitely shows how dated it is, but it doesn’t mean it’s a bad game. It’s loads of fun and will have you hooked from the moment you discover the out-of-the-way or less obvious path forward. The movement takes some time to get familiar with, but if you stick around, it’s well worth ??putting that effort in.

8. Donkey Kong Country (SNES)

After being the fellow who would hold Pauline captive in the 1980s, Donkey Kong would eventually get his own 2D sidescrolling adve??nture where he�?�s the good guy. He’s also accompanied by Diddy Kong, who you can swap to on the fly if the situation requires it. 

Its gameplay is akin to the Super Mario games in that you can jump on enemies�?heads to defeat them. You can also throw things or use a close attack to deal damage. Still, it provides its own kind of fun? that shows the quality of the 16-bit era. What a glow-up, good guy story for the Kong.

7. EarthBound (SNES)

It’s wild to look back on this game and see the Mother series only started to take off in western regions after Ness and Lucas became a staple in the Smash Bros. franchise. Still, now that the '90s RPG has become popular and made available for NSO subscribers, EarthBound still holds up. So, to all of you hungry for more Mother releases, the oldest western release is at least far more available now ??than it was back then.

6. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (SNES)

Fans of top-down games, especially the Zelda games, have to have played this at some point. A Link to the Past is one of the better, if not the best of the games in this style. The first Legend of Zelda game was exceptional in so many ways, but A Link to the Past is just?? more memorable, more fluid, ?and overall more fun.

5. Tetris (Game Boy)

If you want to break away from the highly competitive nature of Tetris 99, you can always fire the OG Tetris up on the Game Boy app. It plays a lot differently than modern Tetris because pieces automatically snap th??e moment they make contact on t??he surface. 

You’ll also be unable to see an outline of where your pieces will drop, so there’s a challenge within itself right there. Tetris on the Game Boy is based on classi??c rules, but it’s?? still such a fun time regardless.

4. Super Metroid (SNES)

If you want even more Metroid that’s faster-paced and has more fluid gameplay, then the third game of the series wil??l provide just that. It’s just an overall better time than the original game, with just the right amount of difficulty that won’t have you pulling your hair out.

3. Kirby Super Star (SNES)

There’s something about the older ??Kirby games that just have more charm and character to them. They’re simple enough and follow the whole “pink blob eats enemies and takes their powers�?aspect of the game. Then there are the minigames on the side to take a break between the main story that just feels like a good kind of padding.

Even though Kirby games are doin??g just? fine and are still prevalent in today’s market, it’s a fun trip down memory lane to see the early days of his adventures.

2. Killer Instinct (SNES)

Killer Instinct is an awesome fighting game that acted as healthy competition against Mortal Kombat in the '90s. While no??t as gory, it still had great, over-the-top action, sporting a roster of ten wildly different and memorable characters. For the time, it was impressive, and so fun to play, even for those who aren’t into fighting games. 

This is the game that introduced the “c-c-c-combo breaker!�?and the echoed “ultra!�?sound effects that we all still use ??from time to time. Novelties aside, it’s such a great addition to the lineup of current games on the Switch’s SNES library.

1. Super Mario World (SNES)

Super Mario World is touted as one of the best 2D Mario games of all time because of the mechanics, the music, and just how much exploration it has. This is the game that introduced the Cape Feather, which is iconic for all the wild verticality that you can perform. It also has the hilarious P Balloon that inflates Mario or Luigi and lets them fly in all eight directions for a short time. You can’t forget the different Yoshis with their own res??pective abilities, either.

Most people will play this game from start to finish, but there is more than meets the eye o??nce you clear the Switch Palaces or revisit previous levels with proper power-ups. If you never played this game in any way, you have to.

The post 10 best games on Nintendo Switch Online appeared first on Destructoid.

Evo is a major event for fighting game tournaments and news. This year, we've seen updates announced for some of the biggest games in the genre, including Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, and Mortal Kombat 1. There's even a brief teaser for SNK's next bo??ut. Here's all the news at Evo 2023 you should know about?.

[caption id="attachment_395265" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Image via Capcom[/caption]

Street Fighter 6 x Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

After a musical performance of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles theme song, Capcom announced a new crossover for Street Fighter 6. Starting August 8, there will be four skins for your custom characters based on ??the radical reptiles, pizza-riffic emotes, new titles, stamps, mobile wallpaper, and camera frames. This bit of EVO 2023 news was one of? the highlights of the show for me.

//youtu.be/TY-k6jYzXtg

A.K.I. joins the battle in Street Fighter 6

Capcom also teased its next Street Fighter 6 character, A.K.I. She looks twisted, and poisons your custom character in the trailer. No gameplay was shown, but we do know she??'ll be available sometime this Fall.

[caption id="attachment_395269" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Screens??hot via Mortal Kombat YouTube channel[/caption]

Ashrah, Havik, and Reptile are in Mortal Kombat 1

Three new characters were announced in a stellar Mortal Kombat 1 trailer. You'll be able to play as Ashrah, Havik, and Reptile when the game arrives on September 19, 2023. Ashrah is a surprising choice, as she hasn't been in the series since the PS2 game Mortal Kombat: Armageddon. Regardless, she looks like she fits in wit??h her br?utal Fatality. Sareena is also coming back, but as a Kameo fighter this time around.

[caption id="attachment_395273" align="alignnone" width="1200"] ?Screenshot via arcsystemworks YouTube channel[/caption]

Johnny returns in Guilty Gear Strive's Season Pass 3

Shirtless and ready to strike his foes, Johnny returns as the first character of Guilty Gear Strive's Season Pass 3. He swings his katana with a quickening pace, and also unleashes cards, even turning people into th??em and slashing them u??p when the opportunity arises. He'll be available to play on August 24.

Season Pass 3 will include one more character in 2023 and an additional two in ??2024. It will also come with two more stages, more color variants for your characters, and two extra colors for the Season 3 characters.

Arc System Works also confirmed that the game's reached 2.5 million players, making Guilty Gear Strive a huge success for the studio.

//youtu.be/cTyy0kgQ8Ug

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves hypes up the crowd

After The King of Fighters and Samurai Shodown getting acclaim from fans and critics alike, the Fatal Fury series is returning with City of the Wolves. Not ??much was announced, but there was?? a little teaser by SNK, showcasing Terry and Rock Howard in the game. The graphics seem to be an upgrade too, with more visual details and improved lighting.

No release date? has been given, b??ut SNK fittingly said it is "furiously in development."

[caption id="attachment_395281" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Screenshot via ??SNK OFFICIAL YouTube channel[/cap??tion]

The King of Fighters XV adds Najd and Duo Lon, and KOF XIII gets a re-release date

On August 8, Najd will be available as a DLC character in The King of Fighters XV. Duo Lon ??will then follow her sometime this Autumn, which starts on September 23 ??and ends on December 21.

Additionally, The King of Fighters XIII Global Match will hit PS4 and Switch on November 16 with rollback netcod?e.

//youtu.be/30GpU_0A8Rg

Raven and Azucena join the Tekken 8 roster

Fan favorite character Raven and the coffee-obsessed newcomer Azucena are a part of the Tekken 8 roster. Raven is using his shadow skills that might remind you of Naruto's Shadow Clone Jutsu. Meanwhile, Azucena has an intriguing dodge feature with some tasty counters shown off in the trailer. Tekken 8 still has no release date attached.

[caption id="attachment_395287" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Screenshot? via RIot Games' YouTube channel[/caption]

League of Legends fighting game Project L adds Yasuo

The in-development 2v2 fighter Project L is adding the champion Yasuo i??n??to the mix. His move set includes a far-reaching sword and quick attacks in the air. He can also release tornados and wind walls against his opponents.

"He can outplay with mix-ups, he can go to the air for really technical combos, play defense with his wind wall, o?r honestly just win neutral with his huge normals," said lead champion designer Alex Jaffe. Sadly, no release date for Project L was announced amid all the news at Evo 2023.

//youtu.be/GYIOUxYBukw?t=354

Plankton is a new character in Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2

The tiny Plankton from Bikini Bottom is joining the bout in Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 in a mech. He has all sorts of weaponry to fight off the lik?es of Aang, Reptar, and Spongebob SquarePants. He, alongside Squidward, will be a par?t of the main roster when the game launches later this year.

//youtu.be/2Dc4F_fC0nc?t=42

Killer Instinct is getting a huge update

Cult-favorite Killer Instinct is getting a major update from Xbox Game Studios and Iron Galaxy for the first time in years. It will include better matchmaking, a balance update, and all-new 4K support on Xbox Series X|S. It will be coming this Fall. Now that Iron Galaxy and Xbox are working together on this, perhaps talk of a sequel could arise between the two companies after Rumbleverse's shutdown in February.

//youtu.be/m55Ju_OmSvU

Under Night In-Birth 2 Sys:Celes is bringing "Dramatic Stylish 2D Fighting Action" in 2024

After more than ten years and many versions, Under Night In-Birth is getting a sequel. It will be launching early next year for the PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Sorry, Xbox fans. Addit??ionally, there will be rollback netcode.

Arc System Works says there will be "completely redesigned visuals" and "even more playable characters to be added" down the line. The trailer's description also touts that there will be "new moves and new battle systems" that further evolve the battle in Under Night In-Birth 2 Sys:Celes.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbI26Ehde3g

GranBlue Fantasy Versus: Rising gets a release date

The release date for the sequel Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising is November 30, as announced at Evo. As the festive season begins, we'll be battling it out as Gran and other c??haracters in a three-part story and a new mode called Grand Bruise. Additionally, there is crossplay and rollback netcode available in this new version of the game. More characters are available too, including Anila, Grimnir, Nier, and Sieg??fried.

//youtu.be/yKUH3zTNWMk

Maypul comes to Rivals 2

Finally, the fox-like combatant Maypul joins the Smash-like Rivals 2. She brings three different?? plants with her to the battle, including Lily, Terry, and Poppy. She'll also be the fastest character in?? the game. Maypul's combos look thrilling in the trailer itself. The game launches sometime next year.

That's it for Evo 2023 news cycle. Which fighting games are you most looking forward to next year, and will you be playing as Michelangelo in Street Fighter 6's avatar battles?

The post All the fighting game news from EVO 2023 appeared first on Destructoid.

We raised you better than that

Bringing someone home for the holidays that your folks would not approve of is nothing new. A time-honored tradition of rebellion and exp??erimentation as you search for who you are and who you will choose to walk that path with you. But there are times when the look on your parent’s faces when you introduce them to your significant other is well worth the ?price of admission.

It is in that decidedly petty spir??it I bring to you, humble reader,?? ten fighting game characters you should definitely date if you want to piss off your parents.

Lord Raptor (Darkstalkers)

Look, Lord Raptor has a lot going for him. He’s funny. He’s charming. He’s an immortal punk rock zombie king. There’s a lot to check in the "plus" column for this guy. But the moment he walks through the door and, instead of a handshake, smashes his guitar through the buffet, your parents are going to be really upset. Then there’s the whole undead aspect. Do they just pretend not to notice the smell? Your folks could handle an earring, maybe even some tattoos but this guy, with a gaping maw where his stomach should be and his... Australian accent... well, not in this house.

Johnny Maximum (World Heroes 2)

A lot of parents would be thrilled to see their kid bring home the quarterback from a football team. Why that’s as American and wholesome as apple pie and re-runs of Cops on Spike TV! But Johnny Maximum is one football player mom and dad would dread to see walk through the door for dinner. The first red flag would be how he looks. He didn’t even bother to change out of his uniform, and he refuses to take his ??helmet off. Oh, and he has glowing red eyes. Seems a bit suspicious.

The dinner table conversation would be excruciating. After a fitful dinner, Johnny invites your dad to throw a football in the backyard as a way of breaking the ice. Your father, being a polite man and considering himself something of a football thrower himself, accepts. Johnny Maximum then creates a football made of raw energy in his hand and throws it hard enough to shatter your father’s ribs. Every winter, as the dull ache in his chest sets in, your father will think of the man you? brought home and how it changed his life forever.

D'Vorah (Mortal Kombat X)

She’s mysterious. She’s exotic. She’s only dating you because your flesh will provide sustenance to the Hive. But it’s a mutual kind of arrangement because before a swarm of wasps eats your corneas, you will get to see the look on mom and dad’s faces when D’vo?rah sits down at the dinner table. Bonus points for watching mom absolutely freak out when she finds the dog cocooned to the bathroom ceiling.

Q (Street Fighter III)

Q is the epitome of the strong, silent type. And so few men can pull off a fedora today but damn if he doesn’t look dapper. The attraction is easy to understand but your parents won’t care. All they’ll see is a man in a trench coat wearing an iron mask who refuses to utter a word during dinner. Oh sure, he’ll grunt, and you think he mutters something about being an abomination but after further prodding by your father and he just acts like a robot shutting down. You ?finish your meal in icy silence as your mother’s sighs get louder with each bottle of wine she drinks. Miss??ion accomplished.

Faust (Guilty Gear)

“You’re dating a doctor!�?What parent wouldn’t jump for joy at that thought? But this is one doctor your parents will wish didn’t make house calls. The circus of anguish will begin the moment your dad opens the door and sees you standing next to�?a man’s cro??tch? Yup, Dr. Faust is 9�?�? An impossibly long arm snakes down from the top of the door frame for a handshake. You’ve never seen your father so pale. Your toes curl.

After almost crawling through the doo??rway, Dr. Faust sits down on the sofa, hunched over in a d?ecidedly spidery fashion. You watch as your parents, slowly getting over the shock of Dr. Faust’s height, notice that he is wearing a paper bag on his head. Their eyes glaze over. Is this what a mind-breaking looks like? You wish for this night to never end.

Voldo (Soulcalibur)

The door opens. You greet your mother. She asks where your date is. You smile and point down. Th??ere on the ground, slithering around your mother’s ankles is Voldo. His head upturned, he grins, teeth cracking again?st the metal bar in his mouth. Your mother screams then promptly faints. You step over her to find your dad at the top of the stairs wondering why your mother was screaming. In response to the query, Voldo spider-crawls backward towards him, codpiece thrust upward like a jeweled dagger. Your father screams then promptly faints. Closing the door as you leave, Voldo proceeds to do cartwheels around the mailbox. The sun is setting. Life is good.

Dan Hibiki (Street Fighter Alpha)

Do you remember when you were a kid and after karate class, your mom took you to the grocery? Wearing that karate gi, you thought that if bad guys showed ??up, you would karate the holy hell out of them and mom would totally buy you those awesome Ninja Turtle ice cream bars as a reward. Now take that feeling and translate that into an adult man. Now give him a ponytail. You’ve got Dan.

Your parents can just smell it on him the moment they open the door. He’s polite if arrogant. He owns his own busi??ness, but your parents have tuned him out, focusing on pushing peas around the plate. Even you’re bored by this. Watching the dog sniff Dan’s ponytail and then sneeze, you realize that no one will be upset tonight, just disappointed.

Hisako (Killer Instinct)

Look, some of us go through a Goth phase. It's part of the journey. And sometimes, in that Goth phase, you meet a Japanese revenge ghost ??at a pop-up clothing store in Soho and end up dating them. It's all part of the journey. The evening begins with mom and dad opening the door to greet you and having a gray hand with dirty fingernails reach out from the darkness to greet them back.

As Hisako jerkily lumbers to the sofa to enjoy drinks and light Hors d’oeuvres in the living room, you quietly explain to your parents that Hisako is an exchange student and to please respect her customs. They grimace and smi?le, like they just watched the dog eat its own vomit. Th?e look does not leave their face.

Double (Skullgirls)

Right off the bat, when your date walks into your parents' house dressed like a nun and it’s not Halloween, you know this is going to get awkward. Oh sure, Double (Agatha is what she’s calling herself) is pleasant though your mother is already mentally saying Hail Marys. But something is off with Agatha. The family dog growls then whimpers as she walks by. The air around her feels off, cold and humid, and hea??vy. As the night goes on, your nerves get the better of you and you have a little too much to drink. You are as??ked to leave once you start referring to Agatha as your “meat goddess�?

Blue Suede Goo (Clayfighter)

An Elvis impersonator? In 2022? Remember when Joker burned all that money because he could? That’s what bringing ??home Blue Suede Goo would be like. Only it's your dignity going up in flames.

The post 10 Fighting Game Characte?rs to Bring Ho??me to Upset Your Parents appeared first on Destructoid.

COUNTER BREAKER!

[Update: The Killer Instinct dev team has seemingly fixed both the game's online ranked? mode and its leaderboards problems. Normal C-C?-C-C-C-Combo breakin' service should now be resumed.]

Every game is a potential target for troublemakers, even Iron Galaxy's excellent 2013 fighter Killer Instinct, which?? is currently mired in its own hack-based catastrophe, despite the relative quietness of the fast-paced scrapper in the larger picture of the fighting game community.

Killer Instinct's ranked mode has, for some time now, been the target of one individual, who has been rendering the leaderboards an absolute mess with a flurry of fake accounts, which they have used to essentially "jam" the online rankings for the dedicated KI community. This irritant has gone one step further, however, and is causing the game's sync system to crash when trying to lo??ad players into matchmaking. Essentially, ranked mode has been rendered literally unplayable for the community.

//twitter.com/KillerInstinct/status/1577001295784816?641?s=20&t=ITaKxasPT8OmvydEPVk9Bw

Fortunately, dedicated player NickyFGC was able to raise awareness of the issue �?via a video and a social media campaign �?and was able to get the attention of Killer Instinct's publisher, Microsoft. A simple statement was then posted to the official KI Twitter, saying that the team was now aware of the issue and had launched an investigation. It should be noted that this bug only affects the Xbox and Windows versions of KI. The Steam edition, which?? has its own server, is running as it should be.

Seeing Killer Instinct in the headlines again, even if for negative reasons, only serves as a reminder as to quite how excellent that reboot was. I myself scoffed arrogantly at the news the series was returning, only to then find not only did I truly love the game, but I actually became better at it than I have with any other fighter. Today, KI still entertains a throng of d?edicated players, unable to tear away from its dazz?ling looks, amazing soundtrack, and fast, compelling action.

Here's to C-C-C-Combo Breakers everywhere.

Killer Instinct is available now on Xbox One and PC.

The post (Update) Killer Instinct ran??ked mode hacked, b??ut Microsoft is on the case appeared first on Destructoid.

One step closer to flushing out Ultratech

Xbox Head of Gaming Phil Spencer has referenced a desire to get the wheels in motion on a new entry in revitalized fighting franchise, Killer Instinct. Speaking with gaming podcast Dropped Frames (as reported by VGC), the Microsoft executive referenced the Rare??-originated fanta?sy fighter as one of several Xbox IPs he wants to see return to the forefront of the Xbox brand.

"The response when we redid KI at the launch of Xbox One was fantastic," recalled Spencer. "Matt [Booty, Xbox Game Studios] and I have discussed many times KI and where we would like to go with it and it’s not out of our minds that �?it might be out of our minds �?but it’s in our hearts and in our minds that we want to continue to do something with KI [...] It’s about finding the right team and the right opportunity, it is not due to any kind of lack of desire on our part that we’re not doing more with KI because we love the franchise and the c?ommunity response."

Debuting in 1994, Killer Instinct was a unique and pretty clunky fighting title, originally developed to showcase the power of Nintendo's then-upcoming hardware Nintendo 64. Unfortunately, the new console would ultimately arrive too late to capitalize on the combo-heavy fighter's fandom, eventually receiving the so-so Killer Instinct Gold in 1996.

In 2013, Killer Instinct returned as an Xbox One exclusive, given a fresh new look and much-improved gameplay courtesy of developer Double Helix Games, all backed by a fantastic score from veteran composer Mick Gordon. Following the purchase of Double Helix by Amazon, Killer Instinct was handed off to Iron Galaxy, who fine-tuned the fighter into an absolutely stellar release, adding a slew of fa?ntastic new and returning characters, while developing a highly impressive (if too late) PC port.

I loved 2013's Killer Instinct. Its compelling mechanics, awesome music, creative characters, stunning visuals, and easy-to-learn/hard-to-master gameplay swallowed me hook, line, and sinker. Probably my favorite fighter of the last decade, I had more fun (and more success) with KI on the competitive circuit than I did with any other slugfest released ??within the last generation. It goes without saying that I'm absolutely up for another round. Drop a c-c-c-c-combo breaker into the procrastination, give Iron Galaxy a ring, drop Mick Gordon an email, and let's get back to brawlin'.

Phil Spencer sa??y Xbox "w??ants to continue" with Killer Instinct [VGC]

The post Xbox head Phil Spencer sparks hope ??for Killer Instinct return appeared first on Destructoid.

Sadly, no six-player control option

The best tech you probably won't be able to afford this year is on display this week at CES 2??021. Phones, televisions, and various smart devices are expected to be the highlights, but for me, I'm most excited about what Arcade1Up unveils at the show. And this year, it's bringing one game I'd absolutely love to have in my home.

Joining the company's Mid-Sized Arcade Collection this year are Killer Instinct, Dragon's Lair, and X-Men. In regard to the latter cabinet, it features Konami's X-Men, the outstanding beat 'em up from 1994 that could be played with up to six people at once if you could find the deluxe, two-screen arcade unit. I remember playing that version at summer camp one year. Was I stuck playing as Dazzler??? Sure. Was it amazing? You're goddamn right it was.

If you??'re interested, here is what's included with the three new cabinets:

X-Men Live

• Konami's X-Men
• Captain America and The Avengers
• The Avengers in Galactic Storm

Killer Instinct

• Killer Instinct
• Killer Instinct 2
• BattleToads Arcade

Dragon's Lair

• Dragon's Lair
• Dragon's Lair 2: Time Warp
  
• Space Ace

In addition to these cabinets, Arcade1Up is also debuting its first four-pl?ayer pub-style cabinet featuring licensed Atari games and new 12-game Le?gacy Edition cabinets for Bandai Namco, Capcom, Atari, and a few still to be named.

As much as I'd love the idea of getting my mitts on X-Men, I don't think I can justify making the purchase for just one game. Also, I'm still twiddling my thumbs here, waiting for my X-Men vs. Street Fighter cabinet to arrive.

The post Konami’s X-Men and Rare’s Killer Instinct headline the next batch of Arcade1Up cabinets appeared first on Destructoid.

Get that practice in or you'll drown in pools

Despite a feeling that EVO Online isn't quite the real EVO, having a game featured as an official headlining title will do wonders for its visibili??ty. And with the tournament being free-to-enter and no travel expenses to worry about, the only cost to joining EVO this year, even in virtu??al form, is the cost of the game itself.

Potential champions can enter open tournaments for Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath,  Killer Instinct, Skullgirls, and Them's Fighting Herds. These are four titles that were not part of the original EVO 2020 lineup. The former EVO headliners are now exhibition matches, except for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Of the four headliners, two are older and established games, with dedicated player bases who never left when the spotlight on them moved on. The other two are newer releases, though Mortal Kombat is a storied series. Them's Fighting Herds is the freshest face of the four, coming from developer Mane6 after a rollercoaster ride starting life as My Little Pony: Fighting is Magic, to a cease and desist from Hasbro, to collaborating officially with Lauren Faust to become its own original property.

Of the four games, I'm seriously considering practicing Skullgirls and trying my hand at the tournament. I've loved it since release and played regularly until Eliza debuted. Even after falling off the game, that left Beowulf and Robo-Fortune to join the cast and the 2nd Encore expansion before Skullgirls realiz??ed its final iteration. It has that strong "Marvel flavor" I crave despite possibly being faster than I last remember as pressure is more relentless than any fighting game I'd played in the last two years. I've always loved playing Cerebella and Filia, alongside the original iteration of Double, before they turned her old dash into a command dash and changing how her left-right mixups worked. I'm tempted to l?earn Robo-Fortune or Beowulf though since I've never touched them.

I've never played Killer Instinct, Mortal Kombat 11, or Them's Fighting Herds, though they all interest me. All I can speak about for Killer Instinct is that how low-level Killer Instinct matches and high-level tournament play are like night and day. I swore off NetherRealm Studios games after Injustice 2 drove me to the brink of insanity, but I follow YouTubers with their trials and tribulations of Mortal Kombat 11's online matches and I'm familiar with the flow of matches that way. That leaves Them's Fighting Herds with everything to gain by appearing on the world's stage at EVO Online. From everythi??ng I've seen, I'd totally pick it up and start learning Arizona or Velvet.

So are you putting time into one of EVO??'s headliners to join everyone on the world's stage? Or maybe now's just a good time to try one of the headliners with a newly revitalized online player base. Whatever it is, EVO Online is still a big enough deal that it'll get people playing games, both new and old.

EVO 2020 takes place between July 4 and August 2.

The post Are you playing any of EVO Online’s headliners now? appeared first on Destructoid.

But Killer Instinct did

_{[Image Courtesy @Sora_Sakurai]}

Evo is the only esports event I look forward to every year. Where else can I see a guy in a full-body fox costume wipe the floor with opponents in Dragon Ball FighterZ? Sadly, with COVID-19 destroying every gaming event its path, a traditional Evo won't be happening this year. As announced back on May 1, the in-person tournament -- which is the only proper way to host a fighting ga??me tournament -- will be replaced by an online event. All?? of the original titles planned for Evo 2020 will be a part of Evo Online. Well, all except one.

In a new trailer advertising the upcoming online tournament, the logo for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate&n??bsp;is nowhere to be seen. Here is the lineup as it was announced earlier this year:

And here is what it looks like in the? trailer be??low:

Interestingly enough, the logo for Marvel Vs. Capcom 2 is also no longer present, however?, the "2ournament of Champions" remains. 

Nevertheless, seeing Smash Bros. cut from a tournament that's going online isn't the most shocking development. A few days ago, I was schooling my nephew in it online, and while the connection was pretty stable, there were multiple instances where the action on the screen would completely stop. Having the best-selling fighting game of all-time turn into a slideshow in front of millions o??f viewers around the world is obviously the last thing Nint??endo or Evo organizers would want.

So at least one game is missing, but there will be four new games coming to take its place. Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath, Killer Instinct, Skullgirls 2nd Encore, and Them's Fightin' Herds have all been added as open online tournaments. Better luck next year ARMS. More information about the n??ow five-week event will be announced at a later date.

I, for one, look forward to our own Chris Moyse defeating SonicFox in the Mortal Kombat 11 open tournament, something I'm very sure ?will totally happen.

Evo [Twitter]

The post Smash Bros. Ultimate didn’t make the cut for Evo Online appeared first on Destructoid.

But don't get too hype

When Double Helix games (and later Iron Galaxy) announced a Killer Instinct reboot set for 2013, many fight fans scoffed, this guy included. My foolish arrogance got Ultra Combo'd once the game launched and was not only an amazing title, but became on?e of my favourite fighting games of?? all time.

But things have gone quiet on the KI front as of late, somewhat hindered by being exclusive to Xbox One, then exclusive to Windows 10. KI hit the Steam platform just a little too late, and perhaps would've benefit from an earlier port. Still, Fans of Jago, T.J. Combo, Orchid et all should tune into Microsoft Studios live stream tomorrow, as apparently some form of KI news may be happening.

The official Killer Instinct twitter was vague with details, but noted that fans should keep an eye on the stream, reserved for Microsoft Studios to discuss their current and upcoming plans. The twitter then updated, asking fans to keep their expectations somewhat low. It looks like we probably wont be seeing a new sequel announcement or anything so amazing. Still... its ?hard not to dream.

The Microsoft Studios Mixer live stream happens tomorrow?, July 24 at 12:00 PT / 15:00 ET.

The post Killer Instinct suggests fans tune in to M??icrosoft Studios live stream tomo?rrow appeared first on Destructoid.

Fight on?

Adam Isgreen, Creative Director for Microsoft Studios, put out a pretty random tweet asking Killer Instinct fans which ten characters they'd like to see return if, hypothetically, a new KI title were to be developed.

Although Isgreen very specifically states he's asking "just for fun", while linking to the game's official forums. It does come at a time when Iron Galaxy's fantastic one-on-one fighter is now, generally, played only by its more dedicated fanbase. If there was a time to start eve?n talking about a sequel, even hy??pothetically, right now would be pretty snug.

Killer Instinct launched on Xbox One back in 2013, before eventually receiving an excellent Windows 10 port in 2016 and ultimately arriving on Steam late last year. Despite its comeback announcement receiving some sarcastic snorts from some in the fighting game community (including myself, I'm sad to admit), it was actually really fucking good.

The replication of this fan poll, might lead to absolutely nothing. Regardless, it is at least worth noting that Microsoft brass is still interested on hearing fans' views on the series. It may just be a fan thread on a forum, but, to be fair, that was also the method chosen by the KI team to plot and confirm the PC port.

Oh, and for what it's worth, as long as they brought bac?k Orchid, Hisako and Sadira, everything would be copacetic with me.

Killer Instinct is available now on Xbox One and PC.

A thread on the #killerinstinct forums is discussing who should return if we do a new KI. I just threw fire on it for fun: Pick 10 of the 39 to return. Who stays? Why? I can't even decide myself! What's your 10? //t.co/2rE4utwFGy

— Adam Isgreen (@Ishmae1) January 4, 2018

The post Microsoft’s Creative Director links ‘Just for fun’ character poll for Killer Instinct appeared first on Destructoid.

Time to uninstall Windows 10

The excellent Killer Instinct may have come to PC last year, but now you won't actually need to have Windows 10 installed to play it. Just today, Microsoft's revival of the classic Rare fighter has made the j?ump to Steam. You can currently grab the game for 25% off its regular price, although $40 for the whole shebang isn't too shabby.

That is right; Killer Instinct isn't being offered as a free-to-play game on St??eam. There is a single purchase option that will net you all three seasons of characters, all costumes, the story mode, the dojo training mode and every available stage. For some reason, the KI Gold currency is still in place, so I guess microtransactions are included.

For those curious, Killer Instinct on Steam will feature cross-play between the previous PC port and Xbox One players, it just won't carry over any purchases. If you already own the game on Windows 10, then you'll have to rebuy it to get it on Steam. I personally wouldn't do that since Killer Instinct ?was one of the few UWP apps to run with any kind of smoothness. If you haven't pick??ed up the game, though, this is probably the best way to do it.

Killer Instinct [Steam]

The post Killer Instinct is now on Steam appeared first on Destructoid.

FIGHT ON (multiple formats)

While we still don't have an exact release date for Iron Galaxy's fantastic fighter Killer Instinct's Steam debut, details have emerged confirming that the cross-play feature from the Windows 10 port will be included.

This addition will allow Steam users to land their 327-hit combos on KI players from both the Windows 10 and Xbox One communities. Having put a lot of time into the PC port of ??the game, I can confirm that the online is very solid, and that the P??C port itself is one of the slickest I have come across.

Killer Instinct is ??in its twilight years, it was recently announced that the next balance patch will be the last for the free-to-play fighter, although it wasn't specifically noted whether it was also the end of the road for any new content for the game, now in its fourth year. Hopefully this Steam release will give the underrated fighter a final shot of adrenaline.

There is no date for Killer Instinct's arrival on the Steam platform, but according to comm??unity manager Rukari Austin, it can be expected to launch ??"within the coming weeks."

Killer Instinct on Steam will support cross-play. [PC Gamer]

The post Killer Instinct on Steam will continue cross-play functiona??lity appeared first on Destructoid.

Forecast shows possible outbreaks of hype

This week??end sees VS Fighting, one of Britain's biggest fighting game tournaments, gather together players from the UK and Europe to wage war on a selection of titles old and new.

Street Fighter V, Injustice 2, Tekken 7, Guilty Gear Xrd, Killer Instinct, BlazBlue, Smash Bros. and even Super Street Fighter 2 Turbo will all be in attendance, as some of the finest players fro??m around the country and elsewhere turn up and throw down to be crowned the VS Fighting 2017 champion in their chosen field of battle.

The event, being held at Millenium Point, Birmingham, is recognised as part of the Capcom Pro-Tour, the Tekken World Tour and Injustice 2 Pro-Series. There are also plans to host builds of upcoming fighters Marvel vs Capcom Infinite, and ArcSys' Dragon Ball Fighter Z.

I entered this tournament last year, where I was absolutely creamed by former EVO champion Luffy. I hope to be in attendance this year as a spectator/casual player only, as well as hoping to catch a g??limpse of the new games. I'm pretty sure my competitive fightin' days are behin?d me.

Tournament signups have been closed for some time now, but casual players and spectators can still register to attend at the official VS Fighting website.

_{[Full disclosure: Whilst I am sometimes seen hanging around the UK FGC, and occasionally entering tournaments, I have zero stake in this event. Nor am I, or have ever been, in any way involved with its planning, promotion or production team.]}

The post VS Fighting UK tournament hits Birmi?ngham this weekend appeared first on Destructoid.

Win 10 no longer a COMBO BREAKER

It was quite the surprise when Microsoft announced that Killer Instinct would be heading to PC, but I don't think many people anticipated the game would ever launch on Steam. As we've seen with the recent ports of Quantum Break and Halo Wars, though, it looks like Microsoft is open to letting some of their bigger games on other platforms and Killer Instinct is about to join that list.

Announced via Twitter from the official Killer Instinct account, the game will be juggling its ??way on over to Valve's digital distribution service sometime later this year. While the full details aren't present (like if your Xbox One/PC purchases will carry over or if there will be cross-platform play), this is some pretty great news for people who aren't fans of the Windows Store.

I know I, personally, can't stand UWP apps, so I'm definitely more interested in getting the PC version of Killer Instinct now.

Killer Instinct [Twitter]

The post Killer Instinct will be ULTRA COMBOing ?from ??the comfort of Steam appeared first on Destructoid.

Watch some great matches

Killer Instinct is officially out of EVO as a tournament game/main stage event as of this year. It's a shame as it often produced some of the most exciting matches, and even with a studio change Microsoft continued to support it, expanding its roster to nearly include every character in the entire history of the series, plus guests like Rash from Battletoads, RAAM from Gears of War, and the Arbiter from Halo.

Thankfully the fighting game community is keeping it alive with local tournaments, include Combo Breaker in St. Charles ??Illinois. Wheels (US) and Valoraxe?? (UK) just had some heated matches that can be viewed on the TeamSp00ky Twitch channel, using Cinder, Gargos, and Sabrewulf.

The entire matches are worth catching if you're into the game, but the series was full of intense moments like the clip below. In other news Killer Instinct isn't dead -- Thunder's younger brother "Eagle" is arriving next month.

TeamSpooky [Twitch]

The post Killer Inst?inct might n??ot be at EVO, but its competitive spirit lives on appeared first on Destructoid.

Heaven or hell, duel 2...

_{[Near the beginning of the year, I messaged Virtua Kazama about getting a new post in line with last year's fighting games of the year. It's been a long time wait but we finally have this baby up. I'm looking forward to a year of fighting games on my new PS4! ~Strider]}

(I apologize for releasing this so late, but this is because I was ha?ving a hard time releasing it due to Destructoid's Anti-Spam ruling.)

Last year, we saw the releases of several fighting games such as Street Fighter V, Pokken Tournament, The King of Fighters XIV, the console release of Blazblue Central Fiction, Guilty Gear Xrd -REVELATOR-, Blade Arcus from SHINING Online Battle, Koihime Enbu, and Killer Instinct Season 3.

For DLC, we’ve also witnessed several surprises such as Samurai Warriors’ Naotora Ii, the Attack on Titan stage, and KOF’s Mai Shiranui appearing in Dead or Alive 5 Last Round, the Season 1 characters in Street Fighter V, Dizzy’s return in Guilty Gear Xrd -REVELATOR-, Arbiter and General RAAM in Killer Instinct, Mai Natsume making her playable debut in Blazblue Central Fiction, and Alien, Bo Rai Cho, Leatherface, and Triborg appearing as Season 2 DLC for Mortal Kombat X (known as Mortal Kombat XL).

As for fighting game moments… there were several that would become memorable for years to come, such as LI Joe’s rise to fame at EVO 2016, Hungrybox’s emotional win at Grand Finals for Super Smash Bros. Melee, Infiltration telling the entire world “Download Complete,” the salty runback between RealLaw and Pokchop in Tekken 7 Fated Retribution, DOA Veteran FSD|Rikuto taking a huge win at NEC 17 for DOA5 Last Round, Daigo vs. Lupe Fiasco in Street Fighter V, and finally: New Day’s Xavi?er Woods vs. Bullet Club’s Kenny ??Omega at CEO 2016.

We have new fighting games coming out for this year, and we also have a new console tha??t is finally out, which is the Nintendo Switch. But en??ough of the foreplay, let’s get to the fighting games!

Tekken 7

We thought that Tekken 7 Fated Retribution was set ?for a 2016 release date, but Bandai Namco decided that they needed more time with development of the game. Since last year, we’ve seen new and returning characters returning to the roster such as Nina Williams, Bob, Lee Chaolan & Violet, Miguel, Kuma & Panda, Ma?ster Raven, and Eddy Gordo.

In most recent news, Tekken 7 did a collab with New Japan Pro Wrestling. NJPW gave the players customizable Bullet Club and CHAOS apparel, and a special costume for King designed by the current IWGP World Heavyweig??ht Champion, “The Rainmaker” Kazuchika Okada. Rainmaker King’s costume comes with a different Rage Art, which is Okada’s Rainmaker finisher. That’s awesome, right?! Wrestling fans like myself will enjoy this, and hopefully, it gets included in the North American release.

Fated Retribution will have an Online Tournament mode for consoles, which will allow you to play online tournaments with? friends or random players. You can also set passwords for your lobbies and you can chat with other players while in queue.

Tekken 7 Fated Retribution (which will be known as Tekken 7 fo?r consoles) will be coming to P??layStation 4, Xbox One, and Steam on June 2, 2017.

Will it be at EVO?: Yes it will be at EVO, and it will be part of Sunday's Finals. Tekken 7 and the Fated Retribution update both have ??been at ??EVO, but only the arcade version has been used.

Injustice 2

When Injustice 2 was announced last year, we were introduced to se??veral more characters from the DC Universe that will be making their debut in the game such as Supergirl, Gorilla Grodd, Atrocious, Blue Beetle, and Deadshot. As of right now until the next trailer, the characters that are returning to the roster are Batman, Superman, The Flash, Wonder Woman, and Aquaman.

Injustice 2 introduces a brand new loot-dropping syste?m called the Gear ??System. The Gear System uses RPG-style mechanics that will allow you to equip characters with specific costume pieces with status-altering effects. Each loot contains several things such as speed buffs, health buffs, defense buffs, and unlocking new moves.

The story continues from the first Injustice game, right after the defeat of High Councilor Superman??. Batman and the rest of the insurgency try their best to restore societ??y, while some of Superman’s regime wants to continue his rule. However, a new threat was about to emerge.

For the remainder of 2016, we didn’t hear much about game because of the SAG-AFTRA strike with the voice actors. Because of this, it cause a ??halt in production with the game for a brief moment. Since then, the production for this game has been put back on track.

Injustice 2 will be coming for Xbox One and PlayStation 4 on May 16, 20??17. A iOS and Android port is also coming soon.

Will it be at EVO?: Yes it is.

Marvel vs. Capcom Infinite

At the PlayStation Experience 2016, we were treated with a brand new entry in the Marvel vs. Capcom series called Marvel vs. Capcom Infinite. Fans and the Marvel community re?joiced with the announcement since we got a glimpse of the gameplay.

Norio Hirose, who was a programmer for previous Capcom titles such as the early MvC series before Marvel vs. Capcom 2, Capcom vs. SNK, and Project Justice, is the current producer of the series.

MvCi returns to the 2v2 gameplay that was found in past MvC titles and Tatsunoko vs. Capcom, but with a twist. The Infinity Stones is the main mechanic for the game, similar to Marvel Super Heroes. However, the Infinity Stones functions similar to the Groove System in Capcom vs. SNK 2. Each Stone will grant a unique ability to every character such as how the Power Stone boosts strength for example. Assist calling is absent from this game, but it has been replaced with something different. Players can now swap their characters out in the middle of their combos similar to the Switch Cancel in Street Fighter X Tekken. This game will have a story mode, on?line lobbies, and several single-player modes such as Arcade, Mission, and Training mode.

As of right now, the characters that have been confirmed are Ryu (Street Fighter), Mega Man X (Mega Man X), Morrigan Aensland (Darkstalkers/Vampire), Captain America, Captain Marvel (Carol Danvers), and Iron Man. The Marvel characters are being used from the Marvel Cinematic Universe,? and Capcom is reviving characters from old franchises.

Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite will be coming to Xbox One, PlayStatio?n 4, and Steam this year ??in 2017.

Will it be at EVO?: Not this year since they are planning a late 2017 release after EVO, but it wi??ll make next year??’s.

Ultra Street Fighter II: The Final Challengers

This came out of nowhere, but it seems that Street Fighter is celebrating its 30th Anniversary this year. And what better way to do is to revisit Street Fighter II again?

After the Nintendo Switch presentation, Capcom announced Ultra Street Fighter II: The Final Challengers exclusively for the Nintendo Switch. This game adds two more characters to the roster, which are Evil Ryu and Violent Ken. Yo??u have the option to switch the graphics to either Udon-styled HDR or the classic.

As for gameplay, it seems that there are a few changes that are different than both Super Turbo and HDR. Based on what Justin Wong found, it's possible to tech throws in USF2. In past SF2 games, you could do a soft tech but the only difference is that you take minor damage from it. You can also ch??ange your costume color on the character select screen instead of pressing a different button to select your color. Dramatic Battle makes a return to the series in which two players can take on one player at the same time. There's also Way of the Hadou mode where you use the Joy-Con controllers to throw H?adokens from a first-person view.

Ultra Street Fighter II wil??l be coming out on May 25, 2017 for th?e Nintendo Switch.

Will it be at EVO?: Maybe as a side tournament.

ARMS

On the Nintendo Switch showcase back in January, we were introduced to a brand new IP in the lineup. It would be a fighting game that would contain long-ranged fighting at its finest. That game is ARMS.

ARMS allows players to perform moves such as punching, blocking, dodging, an??d throwing. At times, you can reflect your opponent's attacks in several different ways. There are different types of fists you can use based on the strategy you choose, such as Whip Type, Multi-Shot Type, Curve Type, and Heavy Type.

ARMS will be coming out for the ??Nintendo Switch on June 16,?? 2017.

Will it be at EVO?: It was on the list to appear as the ninth game based on Player's Choice, but lost to Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3.

DLC Coming For This Year

Outside of the ne??w games that are coming this year, there are also DLC set to be release for previo?us fighters.

Earlier in January, Microsoft and Iron Galaxy released a brand new character for Killer Instinct Season 3, which was Kilgore. In addition to the character release and balance changes, it was revealed that Jago became the next character to have Ultimates in Season 3. In Season 1 of Killer Instinct, Shadow Jag?o was the only chara??cter to have an Ultimate.

Street Fighter V didn’t have a solid launch last year due to leaving the casual players in the dust, but Capcom made it up with adding additional modes. Now that Season 2 is out with balance changes, we were already greeted with the return of Akuma and a brand new stage. Along with Akuma, we are expected to have at least five characters who will be joining the roster this year in 2017. It has said that these characters are brand new to the Street Fighter universe. Are they from the Udon comics? Were they in Street Fighter V originally as NPCs? Or are they completely new? We’ll find out this yea?r. As of right now, Akuma and Kolin are available.

The King of Fighters XIV marked the revival of SNK and the franchise since they are getting more involved with the Fighting Game Community starting with the KOF World Championship Tournament series. KOF14 recently released a free update that will enhance the game’s graphics, along with more additional colors for the cast. It?? will also have an arcade port later this year, but we don??’t know what will be added. In addition to that, Whip, Yamazaki, Vanessa, and Rock have been added to the roster via DLC and more costumes have been released since then.

[Editor's note: Guilty Gear Xrd REV 2 is also on the way this year. In addition to bringing back Baiken and introducing Chipp Zanuff's Chief of Staff, Answer, REV 2 is promising to change up the roster in more dramatic ways than simple frame data changes.]

2?017 is looking bright for the FGC this year. With the Nintendo Switch now out, four upcoming fighting games that are coming out this year, upcoming DLC for previ??ous games, and other surprises, it’s a sure thing that the fans and the community can expect something good this year.

Until then… train up, fighters!

The post Fighting games and DLC to look forward to in 2017 appeared first on Destructoid.

'People of Earth, lend me your strength!'

Killer Instinct has been one of the most entertaining fighting games of this generation, and that's made even better by Iron Galaxy's constant support for it. With newest roster addition Kilgore, which is now available for download at $10 (with half of the proceeds going toward the KI Ultr??a Tour Community Fund, which helps fund the community tournament circuit), Ultimates are also returning to the series at a later date. 

With a brief gameplay video on Iron Galaxy's Twitter (with footage first debuted during an in-depth Kilgore stream), we see Jago and Kilgore battling it out un?til Jago eventually unleashes his new Ultimate, a giant, flaming spirit bomb. Before this addition, the only Ultimate in the game was Shadow Jago's in Arcade Mode. Unfortunately there aren't any other details as to when ??????????????????????????they're releasing at this time, but we'll update you with the information as it arrives. 

I'm dying to see Ultimates from the guest characters. Rash, specifically. I wonder wha?t he's going to do? 

The post Ultimate finishers returning to Killer Instinct appeared first on Destructoid.

Ooh, another cyborg

Killer Instinct hasn't finalized its cast yet. Come January, we'll have another combatant to contend with, and this one has a thing?? or two in common with series poster boy Fulgore. His name? Kilgore.

Iron Galaxy has a sizable update out now for the game, as detailed in this lovely overview video and in the extensive patch notes found here. Aside from balance tweaks for much of the Killer Instinct lineup, there are more character skins, new features for the Shadow Lords mode, and some noteworthy system changes: "Breaking a combo now restores 5??0% of your potential damage (was 100%)," and "Passive potential damage reg?eneration now begins after 3 seconds (was 1 second)."

It's unclear when precisely Kilgore will make his full playable debut, but you'll be able to go up agains?t him beforehand. You can see more of Edward Minigunhands in this match with Kim Wu.

[Update: It's also possible to try out Kilgore in Shadow Lords before his full release next month. According to our helpful tipster, you need to 1) beat Shadow Lords on any difficulty 2) complete the Relic Hunt quest and 3) start and ?finish the new Hot Lead questline that's related? to Kilgore.

As part of that last step, you'?ll eventually go up against a fortified Kilgore and if you manage to beat him, he'll earn a spot on your team as a playable character. Pretty cool!]

3.6 Patch Notes [Ultra Combo]

The post Kilgore is the latest fighter coming to Kille?r In??stinct appeared first on Destructoid.

M-M-M-MONEY SAVER!

Despite not owning an Xbox One, I've been consistently tempted to make the plunge with all of the Games with Gold titles Microsoft has given out. Even the less exciting months have had at least one strong title, but January is just loaded with good stuff. Killer Instinct Season 2 Ultra Edition is the obvious standout, but having Rayman Origins available is damn awesome (especially with Legends just being added to backward compatibility).

Along with that, you'll be able to grab The Cave, a Ron Gilbert-directed puzzle platformer, and Deathtrap, an action RPG set in the world of Van Helsing. Deathtrap will be available for the entirety of January while the other titles have limited windows. The Cave will be on offer from January first until the 16th with Killer Instinct and Rayman Origins filling in from the 16th until the 30th.

The best part about the Ultra Edition of Killer Instinct is that it comes with the classic Killer Instinct 2 arcade game. Microsoft actually did this in January with Killer Instinct Season 1 Ultra Edition being available on Games with Gold, so anybody lucky enough to grab that has a ton of content to work through. That new sto?ry mode sounds great, too, so color me jealous.

The post Microsoft is starting off the new year wit?h some awesome Games with Gold titles appeared first on Destructoid.

Say hello to Shadow Lords

Killer Instinct fans have spent most of 2016 waiting for it, and the time's finally here. Iron Galaxy's well-performing fighter gets its single-player campaign mode today. Shadow Lords has released for Killer Instinct.

The idea behind the free story mode is that Gargos is invading Earth. Players have to choose a main character and then assemble a team of secondary fighters to take on Gargos' squad. Shadow Lords is said to be infinitely replayable and to provide a conclusion to Season 3.

Shadow Lords also introduces a crafting system to Killer Instinct, along with what looks to be a revamped loot system. Figh??ting garners a wealth of resources that seem to be used to create rare content; KI Gold s??erves this purpose, too. Also, the launch trailer makes note of the new Astral stage that can be unlocked through the campaign.

As mentioned earlier, Shadow Lords is free. However, the $40 Killer Instinct: Definitive Edition also releases today. That comes with everything to come out thus far (fighters, stages, skins, etc.), including a gold costume for Gargos. Outfitting Gargos with that brings him one step closer to being the Power Rangers' Goldar.

The post Killer Instinct just added its free campaign mode appeared first on Destructoid.

Last part of Season 3

During the madness of EVO 2016, Microsoft announced the final character for Killer Instinct's Season 3 period -- Eyedol, the two-headed final boss of the original. At this point, every single character in both original Killer Instinct games i??s now accounted for. So if you didn't think that the new iteration was "complete" at launch, it most certainly is now.

Eyedol will be available on July 22 for Ultra Edition owners, and one week later for regular f??olk. Having him close out the season is a great idea, and given its presence at various tournaments this past year, it's only getting better. I hope there's a Season 4, even if it's just tweaks and gameplay updates.

The post Eyedol’s gross visage is coming to Killer Instinct appeared first on Destructoid.

Street Fighter, Smash, Tekken, and more

Gosh, it's already here. It's EVO 2016 weekend!

The celebrated fighting game tournament began earlier today in Las Vegas, and I've been struggling all morning to tear myself away from watching Smash Bros. on the main stream. Let's get right to it.

This year's lineup is Street Fighter V, Super Smash Bros. (Wii U), Super Smash Bros. Melee, Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3, Guilty Gear Xrd -Revelator-, Mortal Kombat XL, Tekken 7: Fated Retribution, Killer Instinct, and Pokkén Tournament. Here's how the ?streaming schedule will shake ou?t:

(You can also find a game-specific breakdown right here.)

Stream links? I got 'em: srkevo1, srkevo2, srkevo3, srkevo4, and capcomfighters.

Even if you aren't all that into playing these games whether it's for lack of skill or interest or whatever, believe me, at an event like this, they're frequently a treat to watch. If you're pressed for time this weekend, try to at least catch the finals on Sunday. Street Fighter V is even going to air on ESPN2!

The post It’s EVO 2016 weekend! Let’s watch some fighting games appeared first on Destructoid.

All of the content from Seasons 1-3

The original Killer Instinct arcade games eluded me, but I have to respect the way the series was brought back for Xbox One and, more recently, Windows 10. I hope Iron Galaxy can keep on keeping on into the foreseeable future. Ahead of the EVO fighting game tournament this weekend in Las Vegas (are you pumped? I'm pumped!), there's word of an upcoming Killer Instinct: Definitive Edition.

For $39.99, the Xbox One-only Definitive Edition packs together 26 characters, 20 stages, Killer Instinct Classic 1 and 2, and behind-the-scenes materials. It's releasing September 20, ??2016 digi?tally and at retail. The physical version comes with an exclusive golden Gargos skin and the soundtrack on CD.

I definitely see the appeal of a physical release like this, particularly with the way Killer Instinct's content has rolled out. Having it all in one place, o??n-disc, would be a nice convenience.

Killer Instinct: Definitive Edition [Ultra-Combo]

The post Killer Instinct: Definitive E?diti??on drops this September for $40 appeared first on Destructoid.

Also a Crackdown agent

Recently Iron Galaxy and Microsoft Studios introduced a fan poll for Killer Instinct, and asked what potential characters they'd like to see in the future. It included innocuous options like skins or spins like "Shad??ow Orchid," but also provided several interesting guest character ch?oices.

That includes a Crackdown agent, a Halo Brute, and Joanna Dark, of Perfect Dark fame. Over time Killer Instinct might just morph into "Microsoft All-Stars" and? I'm perfectly okay with that. The survey is already closed so you can't vote anymore, but we now have a??n idea of what Iron Galaxy wants to introduce in future seasons!

I'm glad this game was able to get over its initial launch hump and is now gener?ally regarded as ?a success by the community.

Killer Instinct Survey [Ultra Combo]

The post ??Killer Instinct fan survey gauges interest in Joanna Dark appeared first on Destructoid.

Free to play until the end of the week

The latest combatant to join the cast of Killer Instinct is Raam of Gears of War fame, Microso?ft and Iron Galaxy Studios announced today as part of the Xbox E3 media ??presentation.

The imposing Locust general will be available via an update later today, which will allow all Killer Instinct ?players (yes, even those of you who don't own Season 3) to try Raam? for free through Sunday night.

You can find more information on General Raam and Killer Instinct here.

The post Gears of War’s General Raam coming to Killer Instinct appeared first on Destructoid.

Watch the breakdown stream too

Killer Instinct Season 3, for a lack of a better word, is killing it.

While General RAAM (which is all but confirmed) and a mystery character are on their way, we now know that Gargos, the boss from Killer Instinct 2, will be making his way into Season 3 on May 27. For those of you who are interest, Iron Galaxy just did a livestream of the cha??racter, focusing in on just about every facet of his abilities.

Hilariously Gargos has these little devil minions that follow him in battle, and can be issued limited commands. He lo?oks fun!

Gargos Release Date [Ultra Combo]

The post Killer Instinct’s Gargos will arrive on May 27 appeared first on Destructoid.

Hey, I didn't make them blurry

To recap, Killer Instinct Season 3 just hit, and brought several?? new characters with it. But the season isn't over, and more fighters a?re on the way. Due to a leak we can assume General RAAM is coming sometime soon, Eyedol might be in the cards as well, and Gargos will hit this month. Developer Iron Galaxy is providing a few teases for the latter, and I don't use the term "tease" lightly here, as the screens are literally blurry on purpose. Either way, it's nice to know he's on track for May.

In other news, Shadow Lords, an expanded story mode, is also coming at some point this year. Lots in the hopper for Killer Instinct, and I'm glad to see it still alive ?and kicking this far off of its launch.

Killer Instinct [Twitter]

The post Gargos is coming to Killer Instinct this month, here’s some blurry screens to celebrate appeared first on Destructoid.

One of several new Season 3 characters

Killer Instinct continues its reign on the Xbox One and newly minted Windows 10 platform, ushering in a new figh?ter today. Mira, the sister of Maya, is making an appearance. You can get a good l??ook at her gameplay in the video below with a mirror match that showcases most of her abilities.

As for the remaining characters, General RAAM is basically confirmed from the same (correct) Mira leak, Gargos will hit in May, and Eyedol is rumored to be the last announced Season 3 slot. At that point, the new Killer Instinct would be fully? ?complete in terms of hosting characters from the first two classic titles.

The post The vampire Mira is out today in Killer Instinct appeared first on Destructoid.

Season 3 brought some free changes

Killer Instinct just had a recent update that brought it into Season 3, alongside of a whole bunch of r?oster updates. But that's not the only thing it has, as the Iron Galaxy team has also upgraded the game's visuals, which includes both character models and the actual arenas themselves.

Seeing free updates like this is great for a fighting game since we're so used to minor balance changes on top of more paid content. Get a look at what's been? changed in the v?ideo below.

The post See how Killer Instinct? has been upgraded visually appeared first on Destructoid.