Documented for this version

Which controls does this version use?

Actions

Real Bout Fatal Fury Special action controls
Joystick
Move, crouch, jump, and change fighting lines.
A
Light punch.
B
Light kick.
C
Heavy punch.
D
Heavy kick.
A+B
Perform the character’s line-change or evade action, depending on context.

Arcade control assignments can vary by cabinet setup.

A+B+C
Attempt the character’s desperation attack when the required life condition is met.

Availability and exact input depend on the character.

Control notes

  • The game uses a four-button arcade layout, normally A, B, C, and D.

  • Joystick directions are combined with buttons for throws and special moves.

  • Cabinet button labels and service settings may differ between arcade installations.

How it plays

How does Real Bout Fatal Fury Special play?

Matches are one-on-one fights viewed from a side perspective. Each round is won by reducing the opponent’s life or forcing a ring-out when the stage permits it.

Players move across two fighting lines, attack with punches and kicks, jump, guard, use throws, and perform character-specific special and desperation moves. Battles are organized through an arcade ladder, with successive opponents leading to a final encounter. The game supports standard versus play for two players.

Plan your run

What is the best way to play Real Bout Fatal Fury Special?

Learn the spacing of both fighting lines before relying on special moves. Switching lines can evade attacks, but careless movement may expose the fighter to a punish or ring-out.

Prioritize reliable anti-air attacks, throws against guarding opponents, and safe pokes at the edge of normal attack range. Save desperation attacks for confirmed openings rather than using them randomly.

In versus play, study each character’s line-switching options and recovery animations. Many matches are decided by corner pressure, knockdown positioning, and whether a player can safely return to the preferred line.

Meet the cast

Who are the key characters?

1

Terry Bogard

An American martial artist and longtime Fatal Fury protagonist who uses powerful, approachable attacks.

2

Andy Bogard

Terry’s younger brother, a compact ninja-style fighter specializing in speed and precision.

3

Joe Higashi

A Muay Thai champion known for fast kicks, pressure, and projectile-based attacks.

4

Mai Shiranui

A nimble kunoichi who combines acrobatics, fan attacks, and strong mobility.

5

Blue Mary

A professional investigator and grappler who uses throws, counters, and command attacks.

6

Bob Wilson

A capoeira fighter whose style relies on flowing movement, kicks, and evasive attacks.

7

Franco Bash

A heavyweight kickboxer with strong strikes and substantial damage output.

8

Kim Kaphwan

A disciplined taekwondo master built around rapid kicks and anti-air attacks.

9

Cheng Sinzan

A stocky fighter who uses deceptive movement, belly attacks, and unusual techniques.

10

Sokaku Mochizuki

A mystical monk who employs ninja-like movement and spiritual techniques.

11

Duck King

A break-dancing street fighter with unpredictable movement and rhythmic attacks.

12

Xiangfei Hong

A young Chinese martial artist whose quick attacks emphasize agility and close-range pressure.

13

Rick Strowd

A boxer who relies on direct punches, footwork, and aggressive close combat.

14

Billy Kane

Geese Howard’s staff-wielding subordinate, using long-reaching attacks and space control.

15

Ryuji Yamazaki

A violent underworld fighter with brutal strikes, counters, and unpredictable offense.

16

Laurence Blood

A matador-inspired fighter who attacks with a blade-like weapon and deceptive mobility.

17

Wolfgang Krauser

A powerful German aristocrat and heavyweight fighter with commanding special moves.

18

Geese Howard

A ruthless crime lord and recurring Fatal Fury antagonist with highly effective counters.

19

Jin Chonshu

One of the Jin brothers, using mysterious martial arts and mobility-based techniques.

20

Jin Chonrei

The other Jin brother, combining swift attacks with supernatural techniques.

21

Alfred

A secret boss character and skilled pilot who fights with an unusual, highly mobile style.

Before you begin

What should you know before playing?

  1. 1

    Use the background and foreground lines to avoid predictable projectile or rushdown patterns.

  2. 2

    Do not repeatedly attack after a blocked move; many characters can punish unsafe pressure.

  3. 3

    Watch the stage boundary, since a successful knockback can end a round immediately.

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