The King of Fighters EX2: Howling Blood is a notable entry in the fighting game genre, developed for the Game Boy Advance. This game, based on The King of Fighters 2000, serves as the sequel to The King of Fighters EX and was also adapted for the N-Gage under the title The King of Fighters Extreme. Gameplay As with other games in The King of Fighters series, EX2: Howling Blood features team-based combat where players select a squad of fighters to compete in 3-on-3 battles. The gameplay retains the series’ fast-paced action and introduces new mechanics and characters specific to this installment. Players can execute special moves, combos, and the distinctive “Striker” system where a non-participating team member can jump in to assist momentarily during the fight, a mechanic that adds strategic depth to battles. Storyline The narrative of The King of Fighters EX2: Howling Blood expands the mystical elements of the series. Unlike previous storylines which revolved around three sacred treasures, this game introduces a plot involving ten sacred treasures. The antagonist, Gustav Munchausen, attempts to resurrect the spirit of Goenitz, a powerful and malevolent force from earlier in the series. Munchausen plans to use a young boy named Sinobu Amou, who is revealed to be one of these ten sacred treasures, as a vessel for Goenitz’s spirit. The narrative unfolds during the King of Fighters EX2 tournament, orchestrated by Munchausen as a means to test the powers of the revived Goenitz within Sinobu. This setup creates a high-stakes backdrop for the tournament, as fighters from around the world gather not only to claim victory but also to thwart Munchausen’s dark ambitions. Playable Characters Hero Team Kyo Kusanagi Moe Habana Reiji Oogami Fatal Fury Team Terry Bogard Andy Bogard Mai Shiranui Art of Fighting Team Ryo Sakazaki Yuri Sakazaki Takuma Sakazaki Psycho Soldier Team Athena Asamiya Sie Kensou Bao Yagami Team Iori Yagami Miu Kurosaki Jun Kagami Ikari Warriors Team Leona Heidern Ralf Jones Clark Still Korea Justice Team Kim Kaphwan Chang Koehan Choi Bounge Boss Sinobu Amou